Let's Pretend 7x-xx-xx Douban The Physician

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Let's Pretend 7x-xx-xx Douban The Physician"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Let's Pretend 7x-xx-xx Douban The Physician
• Release Date: March 25, 2025

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Introduction

In the enchanting episode titled "Let's Pretend 7x-xx-xx Douban The Physician", hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported to the Golden Age of Radio, evoking the nostalgic charm of classic radio dramas. This particular episode weaves a captivating fairy-tale-like narrative centered around royal duty, love, deception, and redemption. Through a blend of engaging storytelling and vivid character portrayals, the episode immerses the audience in the mythical land of Maduro, where Prince Abdul grapples with his responsibilities and desires amidst familial pressures and political intrigue.

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Story Synopsis

Setting the Stage

The story unfolds in the kingdom of Maduro, a realm where tradition dictates that a prince must marry before ascending to the throne. Prince Abdul, the protagonist, finds himself reluctant to embrace this expectation. His refusal to marry ignites tension with his father, the King, and his loyal but stern Counselor.

The King's Plight and Prince Abdul's Rebellion

At the episode's onset, Prince Abdul confronts his father and Counselor over the King's grave illness:

Prince Abdul (00:38): "No, Count. I have no wish to be king before I have to. And if someone wants the job more than I, they can have it."

Despite his father's pleas for Prince Abdul to assume kingship, Abdul proposes an unconventional solution:

Prince Abdul (02:25): "Why not offer gold, all our gold if necessary, for the physician who can cure my father. There must be someone gifted with unusual power to heal. Search for him. Find him."

The King reluctantly agrees, setting the stage for the arrival of the enigmatic Dubin the Physician.

Introduction of Constance

Parallel to the royal drama, Constance, a peasant girl deeply in love with Prince Abdul, seeks assistance from her fairy godmother to win his heart. Guided by a mysterious voice, she learns of a love potion crafted by Dubin, which she hopes to use to secure Abdul’s affection.

Dubin’s Arrival and the King's Deception

Dubin the Physician arrives at the palace under the guise of a healer. His unorthodox methods and promise to cure the King without traditional medicine pique suspicion. As he engages the King in a game of bowls infused with herbal remedies, Dubin subtly administers a slow-acting poison:

Dubin the Physician (09:25): "Yes, your Majesty. If you will do as I say to the last letter, I will."

The King's courtiers, including the Counselor, suspect Dubin's true intentions and uncover a plot that reveals Dubin as a spy sent by the Beltovians to undermine the kingdom.

Counselor (15:00): "That Dubin is a spy, sire. He is... slowly poisoning you."

Faced with betrayal, the King orders Dubin’s execution. However, Dubin, foreseeing his demise, employs a clever trick involving a poisoned book meant to expedite the King’s demise:

Dubin the Physician (22:53): "Here is a book. I would ask you to hold it. And after my head comes off, just do as I will tell you."

As the King attempts to read the book post-execution, the poison manifests, leading to his downfall.

Climax and Resolution

In the aftermath of the King’s death, Prince Abdul is coerced into marrying the peasant girl, Constance. However, the true depth of their relationship unfolds as it’s revealed that Abdul was already in love with Constance. The love potion intended to manipulate Abdul and the King’s demise inadvertently brings true love to fruition.

Prince Abdul (25:21): "Constance, dearest. I knew you had given me a love potion."

The episode culminates with Prince Abdul embracing his love for Constance, ensuring her coronation as the Queen of Maduro, thereby restoring balance and justice to the kingdom.

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Key Moments and Discussions

Prince Abdul’s Defiance and Vision (00:30 - 02:36)

Prince Abdul’s initial confrontation with his father sets the tone for his character as a conscientious and independent-minded individual. His desire to find a physician capable of curing the King, rather than merely fulfilling royal duties, underscores his compassionate leadership qualities.

Prince Abdul (02:23): "Why not offer gold, all our gold if necessary, for the physician who can cure my father."

Dubin’s Deceptive Healing (09:08 - 10:32)

Dubin presents himself as the savior with unconventional methods. His promise to heal the King without traditional medicine raises suspicions among the royal advisors, highlighting themes of trust and deception.

Dubin the Physician (09:36): "I have prepared the bowling yard... You will absorb these into your system."

Constance’s Love and Desperation (06:32 - 08:44)

Constance’s heartfelt plea to her fairy godmother reveals her vulnerability and unyielding love for Prince Abdul. Her determination to win his heart drives her to seek unconventional means, showcasing the lengths to which love can compel an individual.

Constance (06:37): "I, Constance, a peasant girl, dare to lift my eyes and offer my heart to a prince."

The Unveiling of Dubin’s True Intentions (14:49 - 16:45)

The Counselor unveils the truth about Dubin’s espionage, revealing a deeper layer of political intrigue aimed at dethroning the King. This revelation accelerates the plot towards the climax, emphasizing themes of loyalty and betrayal.

Counselor (15:00): "He has been sent by our ancient the Bouchrovians, to destroy you."

The Execution and Poisoning (22:34 - 24:25)

Dubin’s final act serves as both a cunning escape and retributive justice against the King. The use of the poisoned book is a pivotal moment that symbolizes the downfall of tyranny and the triumph of truth.

Dubin the Physician (22:40): "You have brought it on yourself. You believed everything but the truth."

True Love Prevails (25:05 - 25:30)

The resolution of Prince Abdul’s forced marriage to Constance, coupled with the revelation of true love, offers a satisfying conclusion. It underscores the message that genuine affection can overcome manipulation and political schemes.

Prince Abdul (25:07): "Constance, dearest. I knew you had given me a love potion."

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Notable Quotes

1. Prince Abdul on Duty and Compassion:

   Prince Abdul (02:01): "If you are really interested in the good of your kingdom, why not find a cure for my father?"

2. Constance’s Plea for Love:

   Constance (06:32): "I, Constance, a peasant girl, dare to lift my eyes and offer my heart to a prince."

3. Dubin’s Promise of Healing:

   Dubin the Physician (09:37): "I have prepared the bowling yard... As you play, you will absorb these into your system."

4. Counselor’s Revelation:

   Counselor (15:00): "He is a magician, not a doctor. He's plotting to take your life."

5. Dubin’s Final Message:

   Dubin the Physician (24:06): "You are dying. Oh, I'm poisoned. You murderer."

6. Prince Abdul’s Realization of Love:

   Prince Abdul (25:21): "I knew you had given me a love potion."

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Character Analysis

Prince Abdul

Prince Abdul is portrayed as a progressive and empathetic leader, prioritizing the well-being of his father and kingdom over traditional obligations. His reluctance to marry underlines his desire for authentic leadership rather than succumbing to societal pressures. Abdul’s ultimate choice to follow his heart with Constance reflects his growth from duty-bound prince to a compassionate king.

King (Count)

The King embodies the archetype of a rigid and authoritarian ruler, more concerned with upholding tradition and maintaining power than with the genuine welfare of his subjects. His inability to adapt leads to his downfall, highlighting the dangers of inflexibility in leadership.

Dubin the Physician

Dubin is a complex character who initially appears as a benevolent healer but is later revealed as a malevolent spy. His dual nature serves as a catalyst for the plot, driving the narrative towards its climax. Dubin’s actions symbolize the insidious nature of deceit and the exploitation of trust.

Constance

Constance represents pure, selfless love and the commoner's perspective within the royal narrative. Her unwavering love for Prince Abdul and her resourcefulness in utilizing the love potion illustrate the power of love to transcend societal barriers and influence positive change.

Counselor

The Counselor functions as the voice of caution and wisdom, uncovering Dubin’s deceit and seeking to protect the King. His loyalty and insight are pivotal in unraveling the antagonist’s plot, emphasizing the importance of wise counsel in governance.

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Key Themes and Insights

Duty vs. Personal Desire

The tension between fulfilling royal duties and pursuing personal happiness is central to the narrative. Prince Abdul’s struggle epitomizes the conflict many leaders face between societal expectations and individual aspirations.

Trust and Betrayal

The episode explores the fragility of trust within hierarchical structures. Dubin’s betrayal underscores how easily trust can be manipulated, especially in environments governed by fear and suspicion.

The Power of Love

Love emerges as a transformative force, capable of overcoming manipulation and restoring harmony. The genuine affection between Prince Abdul and Constance stands in stark contrast to the deceit surrounding Dubin, highlighting love’s enduring strength.

Justice and Redemption

The King’s downfall at the hands of Dubin and his eventual realization of justice post-death reflect themes of accountability and the restoration of moral order within the kingdom.

Innovation in Leadership

Prince Abdul’s innovative approach to finding a cure showcases the importance of creativity and open-mindedness in leadership, promoting the well-being of the populace over rigid adherence to tradition.

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Conclusion

"Let's Pretend 7x-xx-xx Douban The Physician" masterfully intertwines elements of classic fairy tales with intricate political drama, delivering a narrative rich in moral lessons and emotional depth. Through its vivid characters and compelling plot, the episode underscores the triumph of compassion, love, and justice over tyranny and deceit. For listeners seeking a heartwarming yet thought-provoking tale reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio, this episode offers an unforgettable auditory experience that resonates with timeless themes and engaging storytelling.

Transcript

[Prince Abdul]

Foreign.

[Narrator]

This is the let's pretend story of Dubin the Physician.

[Storyteller]

Come once, come all the best we can. You'll laugh, you'll cry and wonder why until the very end. The joyous story tells you all to extend. So give a tear the book. But here another letter Pretend.

[Narrator]

Hello, pretenders.

[Storyteller]

Hello, Uno cat.

[Narrator]

Sean, how do we travel to our magic land?

[Constance]

How about on pogo sticks?

[Prince Abdul]

Alrighty.

[Narrator]

Emily, can you take care of the magic to supply each of us with a bouncing pogo stick?

[Constance]

Sure thing. A pogo stick for all. One, two, three.

[Narrator]

Okay, everybody ready?

[Constance]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Let's bounce up into the air. Straight for. Let's pretend Dubin the physician and point north. Once upon a time, in the land of Maduro, it was the custom for a prince to marry before he could become king. But Prince Abdul wasn't ready to prepare for the throne.

[King]

But, my dear prince, you don't understand the situation here. Is your father, the king, gravely ill? We feel there's no hope for his recovery. What would happen to the kingdom then?

[Counselor]

Yes, Prince.

[Count]

Supposing he should die and you're not already established as the king?

[King]

Take the throne now. Your father will be angry, of course, but he's always that way. We need you, Prince Abdul.

[Prince Abdul]

No, Count. I have no wish to be king before I have to. And if someone wants the job more than I, they can have it.

[Count]

But, Prince Abdul, you have a duty.

[Prince Abdul]

A duty?

[Count]

Always.

[Prince Abdul]

You and my father preach duty to me. What do you do? You order things not for the good of the people, but as you want them. You're always suspecting someone of black treachery or disloyalty. You trust no one, and no one trusts or believes either of you. If that's your idea of duty, it isn't mine. If you are really interested in the good of your kingdom, why not find a cure for my father?

[Count]

How, Abdul?

[Prince Abdul]

Why not offer gold, all our gold if necessary, for the physician who can cure my father. There must be someone gifted with unusual power to heal. Search for him. Find him.

[Count]

How?

[King]

Yes, how?

[Prince Abdul]

Send messengers throughout the land. Let them tell of the thousand bags of gold to the physician who can heal my father. Then, on a day set apart, we will give a big festival. Then all the physicians gathered here will try their skill with my father. How is that?

[Count]

I think it's an excellent idea. When shall it be? Let's set the festival for two months from today. We can surely cover the whole kingdom by that time.

[Prince Abdul]

By sending many messengers, I think you can.

[King]

Two months from today? Then I will go immediately. To tell the town crier.

[Count]

Oh, this confounded pain.

[Dubin]

Will it never stop?

[Counselor]

Oh my head.

[Count]

Oh my.

[Prince Abdul]

Good morning, your royal highness.

[Count]

Who dares to laugh at the King? Oh, but you. How dare you laugh at the King? How dare you.

[Prince Abdul]

Father, calm down and listen. We are going to have you. Well.

[Count]

Me? Well How? A miracle perhaps.

[Prince Abdul]

But already the messengers are getting their instructions. And soon they will start out with the news that a thousand bags of gold will be given to the person who can heal you. Although I think if you would control your temper, you wouldn't need a physician.

[Count]

There you go. Oh, my foot. Young man, you need a lesson. You're always crossing me. You dare to advise me.

[Dubin]

King.

[Count]

That's gone far enough. So I have chosen your bride, young man. What's more, you'll be married the same day I am healed.

[Prince Abdul]

And who is the unfortunate bride please?

[Count]

Eloise, Daughter of my neighbor, the Italian Duke of Guavario.

[Prince Abdul]

That washed out looking girl with the garlic breath.

[Counselor]

Hush.

[Count]

You marry her and take over the duties of the heir to my throne. As soon as I contend for her.

[Prince Abdul]

I'll make a bargain with you, father.

[Count]

Well? No, no. You'll do as I say. I'm not interested in your bargain. What is it?

[Prince Abdul]

Just this. Let me take the girl of my own choice and I will. I'll surprise you with my sweet disposition if I can marry her.

[Count]

Who is she? For what noble family is she?

[Prince Abdul]

I don't know her name.

[Count]

You don't know?

[Prince Abdul]

Oh, I don't know her name. I don't even know that she would have me. I have never spoken to her yet.

[Count]

What kind of foolishness is this? The heir to the throne asking if he may wed a girl he doesn't even know. Where did you see her?

[Prince Abdul]

I have watched her in the woods daily. I ride by her shrine in the forest. Oh father, she is lovely. I've wanted to speak and I was afraid she would be frightened. Oh father, she's lovely.

[Count]

Enough of this. You'll marry the Italian Duke's daughter. Or I must. Stuffed pelican.

[Prince Abdul]

Very well. Stuffed pelican. I'm off for a ride.

[Count]

What did he stuff? Pelican.

[Dubin]

I'll fix him.

[Count]

I'll fix him.

[Town Crier]

Hear ye. All men and women, hear ye. A thousand bags of gold to the person who can cure his royal highness, the King of his strange illness.

[Constance]

Hear ye.

[Town Crier]

He may be doctor, magician or soothsayer. The palace will be open to rich and poor on all Saints Day come 60 days from now.

[Constance]

Oh dear fairy godmother, wherever you are. I'm praying to you again. What shall I do? I'm in love, so deeply in love with Prince Abdul. I, Constance, a peasant girl, dare to lift my eyes and offer my heart to a prince. It can't be, Godmother. And yet it must. For I shall die if I can't find some way to make him return my love. Help me, Fairy Godmother. Tell me what to do.

[Count]

Constance, don't be frightened.

[Constance]

Oh, it's you, my Prince. I mean, your Royal Highness. I. I am Constance. I was here before. The shrine of. Oh. How long have you been here?

[Prince Abdul]

Not nearly long enough. Oh, Constance, why can't you be the daughter of the Duke of Guvario?

[Constance]

But why do you say that?

[Prince Abdul]

I wish I could explain, but just now I can't. But I have a plan. I'll be riding this way again soon. Until then, I kiss your hand, my dear.

[Count]

Goodbye.

[Constance]

Oh. Oh. I can hardly believe that it really happened. Oh, dear. Fairy godmother, can it be? Will he love me, do you think? He showed no sign. He was gentle. He kissed my hand. But does he love me? What can I do?

[Page]

Please, my daughter. There is a way. Listen to me. Soon a marvelous physician will come to the palace. Go to him. Tell him of your love. Instruct him to make a love potion for you. Give it to the Prince. Ask him to drink to your health. And the moment he does, he will freeze. He will move heaven and earth to win you. You will be Queen, Constance. Ere the harvest moon wanes. The love potion cannot fail.

[Constance]

Oh, did I dream that I heard a voice? Or was it my fairy godmother? No matter. I remember what was said. A love potion. The marvellous physician. Very well, I shall obey.

[Count]

Whoa. My head. Oh, confound this idea. Nobody gives a hoot whether I'm sick or well. How many more of these blasted doctors are there?

[King]

Only one, your Highness.

[Counselor]

Shall we let him talk with you?

[Count]

Yes, yes. Let's get it over with. Secretary. Get him in here.

[Counselor]

Yes, sire. Boy sent him in.

[Page]

Duvern the physician. Make way for Duban the physician.

[Count]

Is this the only one who hasn't yet poked and prodded me?

[Dubin]

Greetings, O King.

[Count]

Never mind the greetings. Can you make me well? Can you stop the aches and pains and drive out the fever? That's what I want to know.

[Dubin]

Yes, your Majesty. If you will do as I say to the last letter, I will.

[Count]

I'll do anything to get rid of these troubles. And the rest of the stupid doctors as well. What do I have to take?

[Dubin]

Nothing, sire.

[Count]

Nothing. What silly thing is this?

[Dubin]

I have prepared the bowling yard. Your Highness, if you will come with me now and play a game of bowls.

[Count]

You will? Me play a game of bowls?

[Dubin]

Let me explain. You see, sire, I do not give medicines inwardly, but I have within myself strange powers and the knowledge of herbs that is known only to me. I have rubbed certain herbs over the bowling balls that you will use in playing. As you play, you will absorb these into your system. At a certain time, I will have you stop the game. Return to your royal suite. When my assistants have a steaming bath of more herbs ready, you will absorb them, and you will emerge from the bath completely healed.

[Count]

Well, I have nothing to lose. And if what you say is true, then try the reward. Yours? Yes, and more. If you heal me, I shall make you my highest counselor as well as my favorite court physician.

[Dubin]

You are gracious, sire. Shall we start for the bowling green?

[Count]

Oh, I don't feel much like playing, but all right. Lead the way, Counselor. And you, Secretary, you are witness to this strange procedure. Yes, yes.

[King]

Did you hear what he said, secretary? That if he were healed, he would make Duban the Lord High Councilor and his favorite. Well, then, what becomes of us?

[Counselor]

I wonder if you are replaced, that I will be too.

[King]

Of course, we will have to work fast if we're to stop this plan. But we must, even if we have to do away with this Duban.

[Counselor]

You're right. We haven't a moment to lose.

[Count]

Come look. I am healed. The fever is gone. And see my skin, smooth as a child. There isn't a scar. Abdul the physician has healed me. Doom has made me well, Father.

[Prince Abdul]

I pray truly, rejoice. And now reward him as you promised, Secretary.

[Counselor]

Yes, your Majesty.

[Count]

Where is too bad the position?

[Counselor]

Walking outside the gates of the palace with a young girl, sire.

[Count]

A young girl?

[Counselor]

Yes, sire. They were deep in talk, and she seemed to be asking him for something.

[Count]

Well, keep a sharp lookout for him. When he returns to the palace, I will reward him with a thousand bags of gold. Remember, as soon as Duban returns, send him to me.

[Constance]

I am so very deeply in love with Prince Abdul. To be honest with you, I have no earthly right to hope to win his love. And yet I will die if I do not.

[Dubin]

Does he care for you, daughter?

[Constance]

Oh, no, sir. You see, he's only seen me once. Or that is spoken to me.

[Dubin]

How did he act at that time?

[Constance]

Why, gentle. You see, I was praying to my fairy godmother, and suddenly I looked up and there he stood, listening to me.

[Dubin]

Did he hear all that you said?

[Constance]

I'm afraid he did.

[Dubin]

Have you seen his father, the king?

[Constance]

Yes. And when I think of him, my heart stops beating. He would never consent. Why? It's known in all parts of the kingdom that he is urging Prince Abdul to marry Eloise of Gavaria.

[Dubin]

And so, daughter.

[Constance]

Well, you see, sir, I thought if you would make the love potion. And it worked. Why, then the prince would defy his father, and we could wed. And then, sir, I would be such a devoted wife that. That the king would have to take me as a dutiful daughter and forgive us.

[Dubin]

All right, my daughter. Here is your love potion. When you see the prince, give it to him. Don't tell him what it's. Just give it a desk. That when he drinks his tea, to add this jasmine fragrance to the cup.

[Constance]

Oh, physician, are you sure it will work?

[Dubin]

Surely. Whoever drinks disposia never fails to seek the one who gave it. It draws them to the giver. They cannot resist.

[Constance]

Oh, thank you, sir. I will pray that he rides by the shrine today so that I may give it to him.

[Dubin]

May Cupid attend you and bring you your love.

[Count]

Come in, come in. What is it, page?

[Page]

May it please your highness.

[Count]

Well, well.

[Page]

The lord High Councilor is waiting. Without.

[Count]

What's he want?

[Page]

Why, sir, the secretary is with him, and they wish to speak with you.

[Count]

Oh, all right. Let them come in.

[Page]

Enter. Councillor.

[King]

Thank you for seeing us, your majesty.

[Count]

Well, counselor, how does it seem to have a king?

[King]

That's perfectly well, your majesty. Are you sure you are healed?

[Count]

Certainly I am. Look at me. Of course I will. What do you suppose I gave the marvelous physician a thousand bags of gold for? Why do you think I'm making him my favorite advisor if he didn't cure me?

[King]

That is just what we want to talk to you about, sire. You see, word has come to us that Dubin is a spy.

[Count]

What's this?

[King]

Yes, sire. He's been sent by our ancient the Bouchrovians, to destroy you.

[Count]

This is absurd.

[Counselor]

You think so, sire? Then listen. The Beltovians plan to invade our kingdom. This Duman has been sent on to find our weakest points, to find our strength, the size of our armies. And when he learns it all, he goes back, and he will be made the Beltrovian king's High counselor.

[Count]

Where did you find this out?

[Counselor]

Why?

[King]

Our sacred word has been not to tell even you, sire, until Duban has been put to death.

[Count]

This isn't sense, men. If he is a spy, why should he heal me? Why should he make Me? Well, only to kill me.

[King]

Don't you see? His plan, Sire? You say you are well?

[Count]

Certainly. Why? I seem to be.

[Counselor]

On the surface, perhaps. But don't you see? He's driven it all inside. All the poison is going into your bloodstream, Sire. He's slowly poisoning you.

[Count]

I am? Can this be true? I don't feel as well today as yesterday.

[Counselor]

You are thinner, too. Oh, Sire, this Dubin is a magician, not a doctor. He's plotting to take your life.

[Count]

I think you're right.

[King]

Of course we are. We are your servants, Sire. We think only of your good. For days we have neither eaten or slept until we had run this information to its source and found it to be true.

[Count]

Good work, gentlemen. Arrest this Dubin. Three days from now in the public square, Dubin's head comes off. You hear me? His head comes off.

[King]

Yes, Sire, we hear. You are right.

[Counselor]

You are right, Sire.

[Count]

Order the soldiers to seize this man. Throw him in the dungeons. Tell the town crier I want all the people of the land to see how I treat a spy and a pr. See that my orders are carried out instantly.

[Constance]

Oh, Fairy Godmother, do I look all right? I must be my prettiest today, for the prince will soon ride by. Oh, help me to be clever and give him the love potion as Dubin told me to. Listen. Is that the sound of his horse's feet? Oh, I'm so excited. I can't tell if it's his horse or the mad beating of my own heart. No, it is he. He's coming. Oh.

[Prince Abdul]

How do you do, Constance?

[Constance]

How do you do, Prince Abdul?

[Prince Abdul]

This is a very pretty little shrine.

[Constance]

I've had it since I was a little girl.

[Prince Abdul]

This looks like a treasure chest.

[Constance]

It is. I keep all my treasures here. Even my first doll is in here. See?

[Prince Abdul]

But that isn't a doll. It's just a painted stick.

[Constance]

How dare you criticize my child. Of course that's a doll, and I love it. And here is something I would like to give to you.

[Count]

What is it?

[Constance]

It's a. I mean, it's a something for your tea.

[Prince Abdul]

But suppose I don't drink tea.

[Constance]

Oh, you must. I mean, just today, won't you?

[Prince Abdul]

On one condition.

[Constance]

What is it?

[Prince Abdul]

If you will stroll with me toward the palace gates and tell me more.

[Constance]

About yourself, I'd be happy to stroll with you.

[Prince Abdul]

Will you lead my horse?

[Constance]

I'd love to. May I?

[Prince Abdul]

Why, Paget will be flattered. Won't you? There, you see? He's in favor of it. Shall we go?

[Constance]

Yeah. Oh, my goodness. I didn't realize how far we'd walk.

[Prince Abdul]

No. Hi. We are at the gates of the palace, Prince Abdul.

[Constance]

It's truly a lovely place.

[Prince Abdul]

You see the big tower with the huge golden window frame?

[Constance]

Yes.

[Prince Abdul]

That is my father's suite. Is he at the window there now?

[Constance]

Oh, I am afraid. Will he be angry?

[Prince Abdul]

Angry?

[Constance]

Why, yes. After all, you are a prince. And here you are walking in the dusty road with a peasant maid. Won't he resent that?

[Prince Abdul]

Perhaps he will. Let's see. Father. Oh, you, Royal Highness.

[Constance]

Oh, he sees us. Oh, I'm going.

[Prince Abdul]

Don't be frightened. I want him to.

[Constance]

Well, he's angry. I can see from here. I'm going. Goodbye. Oh, don't forget the tea.

[Page]

Pardon? Prince Abdul.

[Prince Abdul]

What is it, Paige?

[Page]

Your father, the king, wants you to join him in his suite immediately.

[Prince Abdul]

Very well. I'll go.

[Count]

Oh, boy.

[Prince Abdul]

Take my horse and then order me my tea. I will have it with my father. It's near tea time, isn't it?

[Page]

Yes, your Highness. Tea is at 4. It's 10 minutes to the hour.

[Prince Abdul]

Very well. Well, Father, you wanted me.

[Count]

What is this I see from my window? My son, Prince Abdul, walking like a peasant through the town. A foolish girl leading his horse and both arm in arm like silly school children. And you, a prince.

[Prince Abdul]

Even a prince is human, Father.

[Page]

Tea is served, your Highness.

[Prince Abdul]

Ah, let's have it. I'm hungry. You want sugar, father?

[Count]

Certainly I want sugar.

[Prince Abdul]

There you are. Did you notice the girl, Father?

[Count]

Certainly I noticed her. Who could help it? Young man, how many times must I tell you. Oh, this tea is hot. That you are engaged to marry the Princess Eloise.

[Prince Abdul]

Oh, so I am. I forgot. Very well then. I am to marry the princess. When?

[Count]

Now. What does this mean? One minute you will, the next you won't. It will serve you right to make you marry a commoner. Then you'd see just how lucky you are. That's a good idea.

[Prince Abdul]

What is, Father?

[Count]

That's a good idea. Tomorrow you marry a commoner. A peasant girl. That one I saw you with just now.

[Counselor]

That's it.

[Count]

You'll marry her tomorrow.

[Prince Abdul]

Oh, Father, I couldn't. Why? I don't know her. I couldn't marry a girl like that.

[Count]

That's enough. You've tried my patience too far, boy. Where is that page boy?

[Page]

Yes, sir.

[Count]

Oh, there you are. Run after that girl you just saw with His Highness the prince and tell her to attend me here tomorrow. Quickly.

[Page]

Yes, sire.

[Prince Abdul]

Well, father, since you wish it, I will obey you. I promise.

[Count]

You promise Me, I demand that peasant girl will be your bride tomorrow. Now, here's something else. I found out that Dubin is a spy. Tomorrow, just before your wedding. By the way, he's to be beheaded in the public square. What do you think of that?

[Prince Abdul]

Oh, I think it's very terrible. How can you be so unfair? Dubin is no spy. He is a kindly old gentleman and a marvelous doctor. Who healed you? You're making a horrible mistake, Father.

[Count]

There you go again, always crossing me. Tomorrow, two things will take place, young man. Your wedding and the execution of Dubin the physician.

[Prince Abdul]

Very well, Father. Must it be the peasant girl?

[Count]

Yes, the one I saw just now. You'll marry her tomorrow. I like it.

[Prince Abdul]

All right, Father, I will.

[Count]

He's going to be executed today. Well, come on. What's holding up the execution?

[King]

Your Highness, we have asked Dubin if he has any last request and he says he has. He wants to speak with you.

[Count]

Very well. Bring it here.

[Counselor]

This way. Do Babbam.

[Dubin]

Well, King, I am here. Can nothing move you to pity? Can you not believe your own eyes?

[Prince Abdul]

Father, I beg of you, don't do this wicked thing.

[Count]

No more of that. You die here and now.

[Dubin]

Very well, Sire. I am an old man. I have lived my life. I do not fear to die. But this much I ask of you.

[Count]

Well, I'm waiting.

[Dubin]

Because of my understanding of things never written or spoken, I will be able to talk after my head is off. Will you swear that you will place my head near you after it leaves my body, and that you will do as I direct?

[Count]

Well, that sounds tricky.

[Dubin]

It is very simple, King. Here is a book. I would ask you to hold it. And after my head comes off, just do as I will tell you.

[Count]

It does sound simple. All right, I promise.

[Dubin]

Very well. All right, Executioner, I am ready. Drop the sword.

[Count]

Quiet. I want to hear what the head says. All right, Duvern, what do I do?

[Dubin]

Open the pages of the book slowly. One at a time.

[Count]

All right. One, Two. There's nothing here. The pages stick together.

[Dubin]

Moisten your finger. Then they will turn right.

[Count]

3, 4, 5. All Blake. So far, they all stick.

[Dubin]

Moisten your finger again.

[Count]

All right.

[Counselor]

Six.

[Count]

Seven.

[King]

Still they stick.

[Count]

Yes, yes, yes, yes, I know what to do. 8.

[Dubin]

Once more.

[Count]

All right. Ah, there's something to read at last.

[Dubin]

Read what is written on the ninth page.

[Count]

The pages of this book have been spread with poison. Each time you moistened your finger. You carry death to your lips with your own hand. You are dying. Oh, I'm poisoned. You murderer. I'm dying.

[Dubin]

You have brought it on yourself. You believed everything but the truth. You failed as a king, as a friend, as a man.

[Narrator]

I died.

[Count]

Give me.

[Prince Abdul]

My poor, misguided father. Justice has finally overtaken him. Perhaps in the next world he will try to undo the harm he has done here. Soldiers, take him to the palace.

[King]

Your Royal Highness, King of Maduro. The wedding chimes are ringing. Shall we obey your father's duty last command? Will you marry the peasant girl?

[Prince Abdul]

Yes, Counselor.

[Constance]

Abdul. Why do you suppose your father chose me? I might as well confess. I gave you a love potion for your tea because I wanted so to have you fall in love with me. But I can't understand why the king shouldn't make this amend.

[Prince Abdul]

Constance, dearest. I knew you had given me a love potion.

[Constance]

You knew?

[Prince Abdul]

Yes, my sweet.

[Constance]

Oh, Abdul. I meant no harm. But that still does not explain the king well.

[Prince Abdul]

You see, my dear, I didn't need the love potion. I was already in love with you. But when I took you to the palace that day, I wanted my father to like you. I took pains that the king should see you. Then I gave the love potion to him. That's why he demanded the marriage. And now, my dear, come ring the bells. Tell the people that Constance is Queen of Maduro.