Page:The Mikado or the town of titipu.djvu/46

 Yes, you are entitled to a little explanation, but I think he will give it better whole than in pieces.

Your Majesty, it's like this: It is true that I stated that I had killed Nanki-Poo—

Yes, with most affecting particulars.

Merely corroborative detail intended to give artistic verisimilitude to a bald and—

Will you refrain from putting in your oar? (To ) It's like this: When your Majesty says, "Let a thing be done," it's as good as done— practically, it is done— because your Majesty's will is law. Your Majesty says, "Kill a gentleman," and a gentleman is told off to be killed. Consequently, that gentleman is as good as dead— practically, he is dead— and if he is dead, why not say so?

I see. Nothing could possibly be more satisfactory!