Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/30

 Rozmberk.—That as yet has not happened, but it will be a different thing if King Rudolf succeeds in keeping all those who have stood by his side.

Hannewaldt.—The ruler does not doubt that the brilliancy and the glory of the court of Rozmberk will be protected, and will yet prosper under the emblem of the present king.

Rozmberk.—Our king is a very gracious one,—he has a request that I may be able to fulfill.

Hannewaldt.—His wish and request are the same: that you will come out and take a stand for his side, and lead the allies as richest man in all his kingdom.

Rozmberk.—That is an extraordinary honor, and at the same time the demand it makes upon me is so great that I must have time to think it over.

Hannewaldt.—I need not tell Your Grace that we must hasten your decision. You know all the details of what is happening, and you are aware that there are now but two passwords,—Rudolf and Matthias.

Rozmberk (Rising and avoiding an answer. rises at the same time.)

For the present, remain here, Master Secretary. I will look after the entertainment of your charming niece, and of yours. Where the affairs of several countries are at stake, a mistake can be easily made through a hasty decision.

Hannewaldt.—As my last act, I fulfill the command received from His Majesty, the King, and give you this letter from the hand of King Rudolf himself. (Hands him the letter, bows, and goes away.)

Rozmberk (With a laugh).—As though I had invited both sides, each is now sending me its representatives, each ready to buy me at a greater price than the other. The more bitter the conflict between the two, the easier for me to realize the fulfillment of my ambitions with the one party or the other. (Covers ’s letter, and opens the door to the left leading into the room.) Brother, the coast is clear.

Kinský (Entering).—Is clear! And Hannewaldt stayed all this time!