Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/507

Rh to .) No, this can't be true. (Walks towards at a good pace.) Sir— Roubal (To Gülich [sic]).—Wir müssen gehen.

motions him to wait; both withdrew towards the rear.

Plavec.—Well, what now, Ančka?

Ančka.—They say that—(Glances at , who looks down. Immediately collects herself. Some one is waiting at home, sir.)

Plavec.—Is it urgent?

Ančka.—Yes, he was very anxious to find you.

Plavec (Good naturedly, to ).—How unfortunate I am! Such is my profession. And you wanted to go for a walk.

Lenka.—Tyny Šimek and Frony are here; I saw them in the chapel. I will take a walk with them.

Plavec.—I thought of accompanying you home.

Lenka (Resignedly).—If you wish.

Plavec (Tenderly).—No, no, Lenka dear, just go for that little walk and I will come for you; I will come. Nowadays a man must not begrudge the extra steps. And I can go a bit further with you. Lenka.—Please do. (They go out on the left.)

Gülich.—Verliebter Narr! (Goes towards the right.)

Roubal (Chuckling).—There's nothing like an old fool. (Goes out with .)

Ančka (With a horrified glance after and )—Well—(She turns and walks towards the rear.)

Valenta (Comes in quickly from the right. He wears a huntsman's jacket, tight trousers, and low boots with tops).—Good day to you, Ančka! (Follows her; they remain in the background.)

Ančka.—Goodness, retainer! Welcome home! I just now heard on my way that you came back last night with the count from far-off lands.

Valenta.—From very far-off lands, from the sea itself. Ančka dear, is the tax-collector's daughter here? Have you not seen her? (Suddenly) You know, Ančka, I am no longer a retainer.

Ančka.—Good gracious!

Valenta.—I am now a huntsman; I am moving to Lubná.