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 he has never before conferred upon any strange guest. I fear this is the end of everything as far as we are concerned.

Ctibor.—And I have yet more to tell you,—I heard it from Chamberlain Vladislav, the acting attendant. The master talked with Kinský about King Rudolf, and approved of certain demands of Kinský’s.

Bilent (Without hope).—I said so, and it is the truth. Nobody else could have helped him except Zuzanka. Kinský must have won her.

Hannewaldt (Thoughtfully).—Only one way is left,—Kinský must be stopped before he carries on any further negotiations with Rozmberk.

Ctibor (Eagerly).—I will take the responsibility upon myself.

Hannewaldt (Agitated).—My young friend, if you can succeed in doing so, I will help you realize your dreams while they are still yours, and open to you the gate to the king’s court.

Ctibor.—Then will you grant me the request which I will lay before you?

Hannewaldt.—Every one!

Ctibor.—I will bring the master! (Disappears.)

Hannewaldt.—I have full power to act. I will offer him any national office he may desire,—even that of minister of Interior Government under Rudolf.

Bilent.—Will Rudolf and Dietrich consent?

Hannewaldt.—They will, for they will likewise be protected.

Bilent (Deliberating the words of ).—Master Secretary, I know of something that may help.

Hannewaldt.—What is it?

Bilent.—Possibly your offers will win him; I doubt it. If all your efforts should fail you, then it will be time to leave further negotiations in the hands of Polyxena.

Hannewaldt.—I fail to understand you.

Bilent.—If you will make a very brilliant offer to Rozmberk, it is possible that you may catch him with it. But you can accomplish more than the minister of the king’s council himself can do, by blinding him with the charms of your niece. Put the respon-