Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/45

 Cardinal Dietrich pledges himself to fulfill the promise, if you will come forth and proclaim yourself in favor of the King.

Rozmberk (Surprised and laughing).—I cannot think ill of you, sir, for wishing to tell me about it. However,—

Hannewaldt.—However,—

Rozmberk.—You can understand why the offer carries no great weight at a time when the throne is liable to change its rulers.

Hannewaldt.—But that will not happen!

Rozmberk.—Many things lie outside one’s power.

Hannewaldt.—Well, even though it were possible that a change might occur, with your aid, Your Grace, it can never happen.

Rozmberk.—Who can tell how things will turn out?

Hannewaldt.—All is well should Your Grace but accept the King’s offer, a part in the government of his realm.

Rozmberk (to himself).—A part in the government of the realm—(Aloud) For me that is an honorable offer. But I do not even ask what part in the government that would be. For how would it be possible to govern in the midst of all this turmoil,—when His Majesty, the King himself is almost opposing peace and order in the realm?

Hannewaldt.—I do not understand you, my master. For what could be pleasanter than to help rule in the country after putting an end to the present turmoil?

Rozmberk.—If the king is really in earnest, he can readily establish peace. What has been and now is the chief cause of dissatisfaction in the kingdom? Just this, that His Majesty, allowing himself to be swayed by one influence at court, will not allow us religious freedom, and freedom of conscience and conviction as well. ( displays apparent surprise and looks ill at ease.) That is the cause of all this unrest which is stirring up such mighty waves that they threaten to undermine the very throne. And you, Mr. Secretary, are you able to promise that the king will yield to our demands, that we can expect him to grant us freedom in religious affairs?

Hannewaldt (Trying to find a means of escape).—I do not believe, Your Grace, that you need attach so much importance to this issue. What is a difference of religious opinion compared with other more important matters which are at stake just now?

Rozmberk.—Well, since our request concerns a matter so insignificant, surely the king will not refuse to grant it. Have you