Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/71

 ter and you, lady, even if with my life. (Hastens after .)

.—Surely the demon of passion, discord, and dissension occupies the castle today, and controls it under his evil power. What occasion, Zuzanka, have you given Hannewaldt for speaking of you as he did today?

Zuzanka.—First of all, that he is angry at me. It is not true that Kinsky engaged me to stir up the resistance of Polyxena. I conceived the plan for her escape, I alone, out of fear of losing your favor, my master. Hannewaldt does not know even now that you intended to release Polyxena later. He suspects that I am the cause of it,—he is also certain that you will now sign the agreement with King Rudolf; that is why he dares speak slightingly of me now.

Rozmberk.—I swear that I would be only too glad to see both conspirators far from the castle!

Zuzanka.—They have brought a train of discord and unrest,—so get rid of them, my master. (Ironically) Sign without further delay the agreement which Hannewaldt has laid before you,—he asks nothing more,—for its realization he is willing to sacrifice all, not only his own, but the honor of your house as well,—sign it quickly, let him leave at once to give the king the news that he has won a promise from you.

Rozmberk.—You need irritate me no more today, Zuzanka!

Zuzanka.—How could you be irritated by the truth, master, which I am telling you in regard to this adventurer? You must admit to yourself that he undermined your decision, that he wished to bribe you to an agreement with him! But why waste further words. Better sign it at once,.so we shall have no more disturbances at Třebon. Would that he would leave us soon,—yes, if he escapes from this duel alive and well.

Rozmberk.—I will make a decision according to my best conviction, and nobody must say that it was gained from me through trickery!

Zuzanka (Gazing through the window).—Look,—they are in the garden, preparing for a duel!

Rozmberk (Running after her).—I swear it, I will have no