Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/65

 Zuzanka.—Good Heavens, how I have wronged him!

Polyxena.—They were not real flames which enveloped me. In a strange unnatural perfume, I remained enveloped for awhile as though in a stupor, but opening my eyes, I saw myself in that room, in the midst of the girls and the pages. And after a while Count Rozmberk himself came to me to shower me with gifts and tokens of affection.

Ctibor.—It is all a dream,—I cannot understand you.

Zuzanka.—But why did he do it?

Polyxena.—He confessed to me himself. He said this severe jest was practised upon me so that his love would be the more in evidence while I was in the pangs of the greatest fear. He did not wish to injure me in any way, and only hoped to find me somewhat inclined toward him, seeing his devotion for me.

Zuzanka.—I can see him in every step of this jest, but unfortunately this severe joke may end in a fearful reality.

Polyxena (Frightened).—What do you mean, lady? What might happen?

Zuzanka.—If Ctibor had been held but a moment longer from his rash deed, all might end well. As soon as the master appears and learns that Ctibor forcibly broke and entered his most private apartment, woe unto Ctibor! It means the end of him!

Polyxena.—For Heaven’s sake, Ctibor, save yourself!

Zuzanka.—Leave us, Ctibor, go at once! Your very life is threatened now unless you can appease the master’s wrath!

Polyxena.—But surely there is nothing to fear! If the master did not intend to destroy me, then surely he will not destroy another!

Zuzanka.—Do not give yourself up to such a supposition or to vain hope. Even though the master were disposed to jest today this deed of Ctibor’s would arouse his anger.

Polyxena.—I will throw myself upon my knees to plead for Ctibor’s life!

Zuzanka.—I hope, lady, that you may be successful,—however, before you realize your aim, all may be at an end with Ctibor!

Ctibor.—You tell the truth, lady. Now I am beginning to realize what I have done, led on by my despair. Save me, lady, since one life has been spared today, let the other be saved also from destruction!

Zuzanka (to ).—You must flee this instant. At the gate, by the water, stands the horse with which Kinský had hoped