Page:Poet Lore, volume 28, 1917.djvu/536

 children! But if they should attempt to harm one of you here, I will try to protect you, and woe unto him who pits his strength against mine!

Chaplain.—Rokos, you are a good and loyal man, but easily aroused. I ask you especially, keep yourself in hand! Injure no one!

Rokos.—All shall be done, according to the will of the Lord! I wouldn’t harm a fly, but I also want peace!

Chaplain.—First learn from headquarters whether the rumors are true. All may not be as bad as it seems.

Veverka (Gazing out of the window).—The Director, I pray you, look! It is he!

All.— Where?

Veverka.—He came out just now, from the Count’s house! And let me call your attention to the way he carries himself! He usually goes along with a smile, his head slightly bent forward, but today he is so erect, with such an air of dignity as I have never seen him wear before!

Kralenec.—The poor man! He always liked me very well!

Veverka.—You will be heavily affected by the change!

Schoolmaster.—But just look, how the people are falling away from him! Just as though they were afraid of meeting him!

Kralenec.—And though they should all run away, I still will not slight him! (Snatches up his cap and rushes out, calling:) Mr. Director! Mr. Director!

Schoolmaster.—The director is coming here! Just see, how his face lit up, how he smiles!

Tonicka (In tears, she goes to open the door).—Welcome, welcome! Our honored guest!

(Director comes in with .)

Baum.—Good evening!

Chaplain (Stepping up to him).—Is it true, Mr. Director?

Baum.—I have been dismissed with the scant courtesy shown to a criminal, which they have made me out to be. The company believed it!

Veverka.—We will not permit such injustice! We will deny