Page:Poet Lore, volume 31, 1920.djvu/77

 Zuzanka.—I commanded it done. For I was convinced that you would desire to have the act made public when you are making an example of the culprit.

Rozmberk.—Has every one conspired against me today, is there no one here who will obey my commands?

Zuzanka.—Not at all, my master. For you yourself expressed the wish that the slightest shadow of today might disappear and be forgotten. See, the entire town and all the surrounding country united to celebrate this day with you,—the Highest Game Warden came to tell you that your wishes would be realized in all the countries which have stepped away from King Rudolf,—and in this victorious moment a human life is to be sacrificed, and that trifling incident of today is to be baptized with blood?

Rozmberk.—And it shall be, it must be, for you have spoiled every other possibility. Why, I might have granted him pardon just to spite Hannewaldt, if it were not for this crazy idea, of erecting a scaffold under my very eyes. You have beheaded him yourself!

Zuzanka.—Aj, I should rather have relented so the executioner could cut his head off in the darkness of the tower,—I should not have used my wits to make you see and understand the terrible issue which must follow your command! Tremble at your own command,—I adjure you, do not allow this order to be enacted!

Rozmberk.—And were there no other reason for the fulfillment of the penalty, your deed is sufficient reason why I should not relent!

Zuzanka.—My master!

Hannewaldt (Hurrying in).—Master, I entreat you to prevent this disgrace which is to befall my niece as the result of her insane decision. Recall your permission to have this ceremony take place,—a ceremony in which the priest is to be replaced by the executioner, and the beheading block!

Rozmberk (Shortly).—Mr. Hannewaldt!

Hannewaldt (Deeply agitated)—Count Rozmberk, I pray you consider my request! If I am not sufficiently powerful alone, re-