Gilbert And Sullivan - Duet - Prince And Princess Lyrics

Gilbert And Sullivan
The Grand Duke (Or The Statutory Duel) Act Ii
Duet - Prince And Princess
PRINCE.
We're rigged out in magnificent array
(Our own clothes are much gloomier)
In costumes which we've hired by the day
From a very well-known costumier.

COST. (bowing).
I am the well-known costumier.

PRINCESS.
With a brilliant staff a Prince should make a show
(It's a rule that never varies),
So we've engaged from the Theatre Monaco
Six supernumeraries.

NOBLES.
We're the supernumeraries.

ALL.
At a salary immense,
Quite regardless of expense,
Six supernumeraries!

PRINCE.
They do not speak, for they break our grammar's laws,
And their language is lamentable--
And they never take off their gloves, because
Their nails are not presentable.

NOBLES.
Our nails are not presentable!

PRINCESS.
To account for their shortcomings manifest
We explain, in a whisper bated,
They are wealthy members of the brewing interest
To the Peerage elevated.

NOBLES.
To the Peerage elevated.

ALL.
They're/We're very, very rich,
And accordingly, as sich,
To the Peerage elevated.