The first counterfeit king we encounter is Falstaff in Act II. iv. Falstaff and the Prince are talking about the message that a nobleman has arrived with telling Hal that the King says Hal must return to the royal palace by morning because there is news of a rebellion led by Hotspur and others in the Percy clan. Falstaff believes that the King will be angry with Hal and so he suggests that the Prince rehearse exactly what he will say to his father. Falstaff assumes the role of King Henry and tells Hal off for his lack of morality and respect for his role as heir to the throne. He condemns Hal's band of trouble making friends, except, of course, for that wonderful guy Falstaff. Falstaff would obviously make a dreadful king. He would waste the treasury money on food and wine and parties. A true King must be noble and honorable, and capable of putting his country before his own life and comfort. Falstaff is too selfish to ever think of doing anything like that. He has shown many times throughout the play that he would rather be alive than honorable.
             Hal then suggests that they reverse roles and he acts the part of the king. He chastises 'Hal' for spending time with Falstaff, who he calls Satan, and a misleader of youth. The 'king' puts down Falstaff as being a fat, useless, drunkard, and Falstaff, playing Hal, defends himself. Falstaff, as Hal, claims himself to be harmless, sweet, kind, and true. Hal shows his true significant ability to be king with the words "I will, I do", in reply to the statement that if he were to ban Falstaff, he would be banishing the entire world. This is where the Prince finally shows he can be serious about being heir apparent. Hal knows that when a man who does bad things all his life finally does something right, people take notice and congratulate him. People who are always good are always expected to be good, and when they do right, it comes as no great surprise. Hal knows that when he finally shows h...