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 turbed his rest. He has told Kinský that he will keep all his promises. Nevertheless, he is ready to give you a hearing. He is curious to know what this important matter may be.

Hannewaldt.—I thank you. For this act, I will reward you in the name of the King.

Ctibor.—I ask for my reward at your hands sir; fulfill my one request, and I gladly relinquish all others.

Hannewaldt.—And that is?

Ctibor.—The hand of Miss Polyxena!

Hannewaldt (Wildly).—You are mad!

Ctibor.—Do not fear that my demand is too great!

Hannewaldt (Faintly).—But I cannot grant it!

Ctibor.—Good Heavens!

Hannewaldt.—I cannot decide about the hand of my niece.

Ctibor (Joyfully).—I have her consent!

Hannewaldt.—I do not believe it—she is promised to another!

Ctibor.—Impossible, her lips and heart cannot lie!

Hannewaldt.—I wanted to say, she is intended for another.

Ctibor.—By you?

Hannewaldt.—By me.

Ctibor.—Oh give her to me, give her to me!

Hannewaldt (Thoughtfully.) All is in vain,—give her up.

( giddily sinks down into a seat, supported by just then enters.  leads  away, unnoticed by , into the antechamber.)

Rozmberk.—What is so important, Master Secretary? See how obliging I am to you.

Hannewaldt.—The urgency of the commands which have been imposed upon me by the king excuse my boldness.

Rozmberk.—And they are?

Hannewaldt.—The Archduke Matthias is preparing for an apparent uprising. Therefore, the King desires to know who will be his friends, and who will stand by Matthias.

Rozmberk.—And what is your desire, or the King’s further commands?

Hannewaldt.—I am empowered to offer to Your Grace the highest office in the realm. You may name whatever you desire.