Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/74



Hannewaldt (Enters with his right hand bound up in a handkerchief; he has lost his sword; his hair is dishevelled.) Against your wishes, I have fortunately been the cause of disturbing the peace of the palace. I ask for indulgence, Your Grace. My innocence in this measure you must surely recognize, Your Grace, for to please you I tried to avoid it as long as possible, though on my faith, I felt that I was justified in proceeding.

Rozmberk.—I do not deny, Master Secretary, that this mishap is exceedingly displeasing to me, as no doubt it must be to you.

Hannewaldt.—Neither you nor I are always in control of strange passions while possessed by them.

Zuzanka.—It does not seem honorable to me to excuse a committed offence by an untruth. (Ironically) I am certain, master, that you will obey the wishes of the secretary so he may know, when he desires to revisit Třebon, how he should work toward the fulfillment of his wishes. (Hurriedly leaves.)

Hannewaldt.—The noble lady injures me, count. You know yourself that I am not the cause of her anger, and that I am neither responsible for this unpleasantness nor its ending.

Rozmberk.—I would rather not discuss the matter,—and finally, both of us are concerned with more important matters than this unpleasant duel. You laid before me a draft of an agreement with His Majesty, the King—

Hannewaldt.—And I have come to ask for your signature, so that in the strength of that agreement, I would be at liberty to proceed toward the fulfillment of all that I have promised you.

Rozmberk.—I meant to sign it, but the discord in the palace today has not prompted me to decide on so important a step.

Hannewaldt (to himself).—He is undecided again, wavering once more!

Rozmberk.—If it is necessary, Master Secretary, that you should take leave of Třebon, leave the draft with me, and I will send the announcement of my decision to Prague or Vienna,—as I choose, in due time.

Hannewaldt.—It is not possible, count, that you would recall your word! ( enters.)

Rozmberk (Angrily)—I have not given you my promise as yet,—and the agreement with King Rudolf I will never sign!