Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/76

 stirs uneasily. to .) Just remember that glory awaits you there where you ought to align yourself, that you really belong with the crowned king—

Rozmberk.—It seems to me, Master Secretary, that in a short time, you will be trying to tell me whom and where I must serve. Try to curb your zeal a bit, and be assured for your answer that the agreement with Rudolf which you gave me, I have not signed and I do not intend to sign! ( makes a gesture of despair.)

and.

Lhotka (Approaching ).—On account of the pressing nature of the matter, sir, I beg you have me excused.

Rozmberk.—What is it?

Lhotka.—An important thing! The chamberlain Ctibor is preparing for death. But he and Mistress Polyxena—

Hannewaldt.—My niece!

Lhotka.—Desire to be married first by a priest.

Hannewaldt (Shrieks)—To a condemned man!

Lhotka.—They are asking the count, as master and judge of the condemned man, to grant his consent to the deed.

Hannewaldt.—I must prevent it! I will not consent to give her to one who is to be a victim of the executioner’s ax, and though I must put her to death myself, I will do it before I will allow such disgrace as this to befall me!

Rozmberk (Calmly).—Go at once, Lhotka, and see that they are married. That young woman shall not be placed under the control of the secretary again,—she is to be independent of him and at liberty to be her own mistress. Go at once, and do what I command you. ( walks away.) And Hannewaldt must be kept back. (Hurries to the window to open it. Steps back in surprise.) Who erected this scaffold there under my window? Who has done it? Who is responsible? Lukan!

Zuzanka (Entering).—I announce myself guilty!

Rozmberk.—Zuzanka!