- Le roi bleu: [Opening a book of poetry] Listen to this one. It suits the moment so well.
- [Reading from book]
- Le roi bleu: "The ring is slipped on the finger after a kiss seals our vows. What our lips murmured is in the ring on the finger. Weave roses through your hair." I love you, my daughter, and wish to marry you.
- La princesse: Poetry deranges you, Father. I beg you to stop.
- La princesse: A cake for the prince. My cookbook! Apple savarin, rum pastry, walnut delight, royal cream puffs - no. Apricot cobbler, plum soufflé... strawberry shortcake, pineapple charlotte. No. Ah... a love cake!
- Narrator: Once upon a time there was a king so great, so loved by his people and so respected by neighboring kingdoms that he was the happiest of monarchs. And his happiness was even greater for having chosen a beautiful and virtuous wife. The couple lived in perfect harmony. They had a daughter of such grace and charm that they never regretted having but one child. Their palace was a marvel of taste and abundance. The buildings were magnificent and the vast stables were filled with the most handsome steeds. But what most surprised visitors was a donkey displayed in the most prominent place. This iniquity may surprise you, but when you learn of the creature's rare ability, you will agree that this honor was its due.
- Narrator: The vicissitudes of life fall on kings as well, and the greatest good is always mixed with misfortune.
- Le chef des tailleurs: [Referring to the King's request for the Princess's dress] The color of the moon?
- Le roi bleu: Even more lustrous than the nightly orb.
- Le chef des tailleurs: [sighs] Now he's asking for the moon.