Page:Poet Lore, volume 27, 1916.djvu/72



(He whistles again.)

Dušek (Enters meantime, slowly. The change in him is apparent. His hair and beard are unshaved and unkempt; his clothes of the latest cut to be sure, but uncared for. His cravat, though modish, twisted and carelessly tied. On his head a fashionable tall silk hat but it is unpressed and ruffled. His entire behavior is now timid, uncertain and almost frightened. He enters without removing his hat).—At your service, Ládo!

Hlaváček (Sees, stops whistling, throws away his palette and turns on his stool).—Dušek! Well, I’m glad to see you again! (Extends his hand.) Most happy, old pal! (Gazes at him.) Man, what are you doing ? Do you know that I haven’t seen you since last winter?

Dušek (Smiles bitterly).—Yes, I know it. I haven’t seen