(The kitchen of Griselda's house. The kitchen is filthy and cluttered. The time is a year after the wedding. There is no-one on stage and there is a knocking at the door.)

Griselda (enters carrying a candle): All right, all right. I'm coming. No need to break the door down.

(She opens the door and a cloaked figure stands outlined against the night.)

Griselda: Who are you and what do you want?

(The figure lowers the cloak to reveal the face of Queen Alexandra.)

Queen Alexandra: It is I!

Griselda: I had no idea, Your Majesty. Please forgive my rudeness.

Queen Alexandra: You are excused. Now get out of the way and let me in.

Griselda: The footman would usually answer the door, but he sleeps so soundly. He is not a young man you see, but he's the best we could find. Frederick! Frederick!