To Play the King (TV Mini Series)

Chapter Seven (1993)

Michael Kitchen: King

Quotes 

• The King : How much does Bullerby have? What could he publish?

  Francis Urquhart : Everything the Princess was able to tell him. A lot of it's heresay, of course. But I'd say there's enough to bring down the monarchy for good.

  The King : Damn you, man! Is that what you want?

  Francis Urquhart : No, sir, it is not what I want. And I think, I'm sure, in fact, I could persuade him to suppress the more sensitive items.

  The King : The price being my silence and complicity, I suppose.

  Francis Urquhart : You might see it in those terms.

  The King : [pauses]  All right, do your worst.

  Francis Urquhart : I beg your pardon, sir?

  The King : I don't think the people want any more muck-raking. I think the whole nation is sick to death of negative campaigning and dirty tricks. They want to be given hope, they want something positive. I want to show them there is an alternative, and I shall.

  Francis Urquhart : You have given your word, sir.

  The King : I have given my word not to make any more political speeches, and I shan't. But I shall make it very clear that I oppose you bitterly and everything you stand for. I used to think you were an honorable man. I don't think that any more. I think you and your party are intellectually and morally bankrupt. It's time for you to go and you know it.

  Francis Urquhart : I should like to formally request a dissolution of Parliament in preparation for a general election.

  The King : Granted, Mr. Urquhart.

  Francis Urquhart : Why are you doing this? What can possibly be in it for you?

  The King : You really don't understand, do you? I do believe you're frightened of me, Mr. Urquhart.

  Francis Urquhart : You believe that if it gives you any comfort, sir.

  [bows, turns his back on the King, and walks away]