Page:Poet Lore, volume 33, 1922.pdf/192

 had, all told, some two thousand soldiers! (Ironically) Then how could the enemy find themselves in Prague!

Beauvalle.—Strange anxiety this is, about the capital city of our country. (Shortly) Two thousand soldiers, you say?

Millesimo.—Yes, it is so. There were more of them, but other generals took whatever they wanted. They tramp about Bohemia with their troops, one here, another there,—all of them waiting for the enemy to send notice of their arrival, and ready to present their compliments. (Laughing.) In the first alarm, I dropped the grouse,—it was the best white meat of the fowl. And here comes a second servant, and breathlessly announces, The Saxons are here!

Beauvalle.—The Saxons on the same day, and also at Prague?

Millesimo (Jestingly).—Truly, as though it had been arranged,—the troops of the enemy from both sides, and approaching in just that moment when I wanted to finish my breakfast. And would you believe it, Count, I did not finish, I did not finish my breakfast. I just left everything on the table and at once ordered my horse and rode away,—at once, contrary to all my customary habits.

Beauvalle.—You shall be my guest. It is unnecessary to expose yourself to danger, or a possible siege at Prague.

Millesimo (Laughing).—Besieged, besieged,—I besieged! That would be a strange freak of chance, indeed!

Beauvalle.—Here you will be protected and have only regret, that meeting you unexpectedly on the way, I could not conduct you at once to the castle.

Millesimo.—Do not speak of it. It is a small breach of hospitality, indeed. You wish to give some instructions here. I came across you so unexpectedly, and moreover I have bored you with a recitation of all the events that occurred

Beauvalle (Interrupting).—In just a moment Count. I will join you in a minute.

Millesimo.—Do not let me detain you. (Gazing around.) It is very beautiful, all is well kept. The park, the cottage (Looks over everything, then goes to the game warden’s cottage.)

Beauvalle (To the game warden).—Havelko!

Havelka (Advancing).—I was just now on the way to see your grace.

Beauvalle.—Within two days, you must learn and report to me who is poaching in my park.