Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/365

Rh Fourth Gentleman (Through the megaphone).—A new prize is offered by the same anonymous gentleman. (Cries of "Bravo!") The total sum is fifty thousand marks. (Deafening applause) Five thousand marks to the third. Fifteen thousand to the second. The winner to receive thirty thousand marks. (Ecstasy.)

Cashier (Stands apart, nodding his head).—There we have it. The pinnacle. The summit. The climbing hope fulfilled. The roar of a Spring gale. The breaking wave of a human tide. All bonds are burst. Up with the veils—down with the shams! Humanity—free humanity, high and low, untroubled by class, unfettered by manners. Unclean, but free. That's a reward for my imprudence. (Pulling out a bundle of notes) I can pay with a good heart!

(Sudden silence. The gentlemen have taken off their silk hats and stand with bowed heads.)

Fourth Gentleman (Coming to ).—If you'll hand me the money, we can have the race for your prize immediately.

Cashier.—What's the meaning of this?

Fourth Gentleman.—Of what, my dear sir?

Cashier—Of this sudden unnatural silence everywhere?

Fourth Gentleman.—Unnatural? Not at all. His Royal Highness has just entered his box.

Cashier.—Highness—the royal box—the house full—

Fourth Gentleman.—Your generous patronage comes at the most opportune moment—

Cashier.—Thank you! I don't intend to waste my money.

Fourth Gentleman.—What do you mean?

Cashier.—I find the sum too large—as a subscription to the Society of Hunchbacks!

Fourth Gentleman.—But pray explain—

Cashier.—This glowing fire extinguished—trodden out by the patent-leather boot of his Highness! You take me for crazy, if you think I will throw one single penny under the snouts of these grovelling dogs, these crooked lackeys! A kick where the bend is greatest, that's the prize they’ll get from me!

Fourth Gentleman.—But the prize has been announced. His Royal Highness is in his box. The audience is showing a proper respect. What do you mean?

Cashier.—If you don't understand my words, let deeds speak for me!

(With a violent blow he crushes the other's silk hat down upon his