Page:Poet Lore, volume 33, 1922.pdf/219

 Beauvalle (Irritably).—Countess, why are you trying to undermine his courage, his decision?

Countess.—So he would remain firm, if he intends to go, and not give up at the first longing to see those he must leave behind.

Tomeš (To, with a firm voice).—Have no fear, Count, I shall not turn my back upon the enterprise I once enlist for. (To the ) You will remain here, noble lady, and while you are here, I can go away contented. Accept them both into your protection, both Marie and my aged mother. If I but know will do this,—

Countess.—They are now, and will remain under my care all the while you are away from them.

Tomeš (Kneeling to kiss the hand of the ).—Oh I thank you, my Countess, you have always been so kind to us. (The raises him by the hand he kissed.)

Dejm (To ).—Are you certain, then, that the people will go with you?

Beauvalle.—We can determine that easily enough. There below, a crowd has gathered, (to ) evidently afraid for you. They have already heard the news. Go to them, and ask them if they are now willing to follow you.

Tomeš (With spirit),—They are not in my power! But in their hearts as well as in my own there is that spark which may be yet kindled,—the spark that burns in their liberty-loving souls! With me they will go to war! (Goes to the right.)

Dejm (Looking after ).—There is a heroic spirit asleep in the soul of that youth. (To ) A people that breeds such sons deserves your faith, Count!

(From the left appears panic-stricken, propping himself for support against a table.)

Millesimo (Breathlessly comical).—What in heaven’s name is happening here? Below shouts and an uproar,—something about Prague,—about the Bavarians,—that they might be induced to go with them! Dejm, (Dejm with the advances to the window,) Count Beauvalle, listen to me, what is it all about? (Seats himself in a chair at the side of the table).

Beauvalle. Do not get so frightened,—there is no occasion for you to worry!