AUDIENCE, given to ambassadors, ceremonies observed in courts, at the admission of ambassadors, or public ministers, to a hearing.
In England, audience is given to ambassadors in the presence-chamber; to envoys and residents, in a gallery, closet, or in any place where the king happens to be. Upon being admitted, as is the custom of all courts, they make three bows, after which they cover and sit down; but not before the king is covered and sat down, and has given them the sign to put on their hats.
When the king does not care to have them covered, and sit, he himself stands uncovered; which is taken as a flight.
At Constantinople, ministers usually have audience of the prime vizier.