Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/48

 be otherwise! If I would save myself, and rise in my service, I must sacrifice all, everything, to appease the wrath of the stormy seas, though it be necessary to cast my own child into its angry waves. Where a higher necessity is at stake, even human life must not be considered, and after all, what has been lost if one young woman be the sacrifice to a cause where she may possibly become a ruler.

Rozmberk (Entering from the room. To himself).—I cannot resist the desire to look at her. ( enters with eagerly hastens to meet her.) You are so beautiful, Miss Polyxena, that you engage the thoughts of all who are fortunate enough to be near you. Permit me to at least indicate how interested I am.

Polyxena.—You are extremely gracious, dear master.

Rozmberk.—Your honorable uncle, to my sorrow, is preparing for a hasty departure. But Master Bilent has been commanded to give you anything that you may desire.

Polyxena.—I do not wish to give you offense, dear master, but I fear that it will be difficult for me to accept at present.

Rozmberk.—Oh do not refuse me this pleasure. It will be accepted with the knowledge of your uncle. (Bows to, who returns the bow as she walks away. Aside to .) Is the antechamber prepared?

Bilent.—I had it closed. The attendant has left.

Rozmberk.—Very well. (Bows to once more, and walks off to his room.)

Hannewaldt (Takes aside. Greatly agitated).—No reason why you should refuse. And one thing more. I am concerned about a most important matter. If I fail to win Rozmberk for the king, then I myself will fall, and all those who depend upon me, even yourself will fall with me.

Polyxena (Obligingly).—If it will help you, I will also speak to him.

Hannewaldt.—Do so,—you shall speak to him. But first of all, whatever may occur, see that you do not arouse his anger, or we both are lost!

Polyxena.—I will not incense him,—but your words are so