Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/32

 is about to enter the apartment of. ''At that instant he hears the rustle of skirts behind him. He looks about and sees in the act of entering from the antechamber.'')

Kinský (Greeting ).—Aj, what a fortunate sign this is!

Zuzanka.—To the master?

Kinský.—I intended to; but I do not know whether I dare enter now since the lovely lady is seeking him.

Zuzanka.—I would not be a lucky sign for you, Highest Game Warden, were you obliged to return on my account.

Kinský.—Your words, lovely lady, are a sign of the favor with which you regard me and they give me hope. And I am selfish enough not only to take advantage of them to the fullest measure, but I even ask for more,—that you would prove your friendship by being present at my interview with your master, as a spokesman for my cause.

Zuzanka.—How can I be grateful that the Highest Game Warden should place himself under my protection?

Kinský.—I knew that I would not be refused. For if my rival feels assured of the support and friendship of the ladies, it is fitting for the other lady to give her support to the weaker rival.

Zuzanka.—Hannewaldt? And where is that terrible rival?

Kinský.—He saw to that ahead of time. She came along at his side.

Zuzanka.—Mistress Polyxena?

Kinský.—I was afraid of her for I felt that a word from her would have considerable weight with Mr. Rozmberk.

Zuzanka (Guardedly).—With Mr. Rozmberk, you say?

Kinský.—He seems to be giving her especial favor and great attention.

Rozmberk (Stepping out of his apartment and seeing with ).—Mr. Kinský escorted by my beauty.

Kinský.—The shadow of that beauty begs the master for a few words.

Rozmberk.—I will gladly grant the request; but I do not know whether the present is the opportune moment. Is Bilent present?

Kinský.—I saw nobody, even when I entered.