Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/520

500 Mrs. Rettig.—Miss Lenka is not here, and if she were—

Valenta.—I know; but, madam, if you would only listen to me and advise me; if—O, I am unhappy! And not to speak with Lenka again, madam—!

Mrs. Rettig.—It is impossible just now. (Thinks a moment, then suddenly.) Are you coming to the grove this afternoon?

Valenta.—To the picnic? What should I do there, madam? What are gaiety and music to me! I had rather creep—

Mrs. Rettig (With decision).—No, you shall come to the grove at Nedošín today.

Valenta (Surprised).—Very well, but there—

Mrs. Rettig.—You wished me to hear what you have to say. There we shall have time and leisure. And perhaps you may have a chance to talk with Miss Lenka too.

Valenta.—O, then I will come, indeed, madam; I thank you. But I beg—

Mrs. Rettig (Interrupting).—Not a word until then. (Bows.)

Valenta.—O, I thank you; I will come and wait, madam. (Hurries out, leaving the door open.)

Mrs. Rettig (Returns from the door and goes toward the adjoining room; suddenly she stops, thinks a moment, and goes again quickly to the rear door, opens it, and calls into the corridor).—Kačenka!

Kačenka (Runs to the door and stands there).—What is it, please?

Mrs. Rettig.—Kačenka, run down to the poorhouse, and tell them there to tell Dr. Plavec, when he comes, that I wish him to stop at my house. Be sure that they don't forget.

Kačenka.—Very well, I'll go. (She leaves. The door remains open. goes out into the room at the left.)

Chadima (Wears a fringe of hair under his chin. He stands at the door and turns back towards the corridor).—Well then, come