Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/70



and

Hannewaldt (Hurrying after ).—He will not permit it! (Returning) Master, prevent the disgrace which is about to befall me. Do not permit her to enter his cell!

Zuzanka.—I trust that you will have too much consideration for your host to burden him with another request.

Kinský (to himself)—Another attack! (To .) The Venerable Secretary does not know how to offer other counsel regarding a mere girl, so it is apparent that you, master, should be responsible for everything that he has stirred up.

Hannewaldt (Defiantly to ).—Not myself, but he, the Highest Game Warden is to blame (with a glance at ) who, it seems, has enlisted the help of yet another.

Kinský.—I trust that you will explain your words, Master Secretary, not only to me but also to the lady upon whom you seem to be casting your eye.

Rozmberk (to ).—What do you mean?

Hannewaldt (to ).—Very obligingly, be convinced. (To ) I mean nothing more than that her flight was prepared and planned, her resistance strengthened by the Highest Game Warden, who won over the lady of this palace to help him effect the deed.

Kinský.—That is a lie for which I call you to account.

Hannewaldt.—As you please, I would say. But I really ought to pity you. You were defeated by me as a representative of the usurping king, and I could not expect you to stoop to me now.

Zuzanka.—Who dares to boast vain gloriously regarding the decision of the master?

Kinský.—I could expect cowardice where deception is cloaking itself, but I hope that the adventurer can wield a sword if necessary to enforce his power.

Hannewaldt.—Adventurer! Well, that adventurer will prove to you that you are not mistaken in him! What is your pleasure?

Kinský.—That we proceed without delay. ( walks off to the right.)

Zuzanka.—Master Kinský, you are going to fight a duel!

Kinský.—I hope to avenge the insult which touches the mas-