Page:Poet Lore, volume 33, 1922.pdf/235

 the .) Noble lady, do you wish me to find Tomeš and bring him here?

Countess.—At this time? In such a moment? Can you find him?

Lída.—I know where he is. Wait for him here. I will surely bring him back.

Countess.—Can you do it? Oh, bring him back!

Lída (Wildly to herself).—I will surely bring him! (Disappears.)

Countess.—Marie! Lída will bring Tomeš to ušus [sic]!

Marie (Jealously).—Lída?

Countess.—Yes, yes. If she could but find him! If she would bring him quickly! Why did the Count go into the forest, why has he been so rash?

Marie.—How terrible it is here,—how oppressive the atmosphere; and this is only the beginning of the struggle!

Jan (Comes out quickly from the right. Sees, is surprised).—Noble Lady, what are you doing here?

Countess.—Has something happened at the castle?

Jan.—I am seeking the Count and the Baron. New troops have now arrived. They wish to know whether they should hurry here after the Colonel.

Countess.—Go quickly and send them to the game keeper’s cottage. ( goes away.)

Marie.—And suppose Tomeš were to go to the cottage also! He would be attacked!

(From among the cliffs appears, and a number of armed serfs.)

Tomeš.—Where are our men?

Lída.—They ran into the forest after the Count! But listen, here is the Countess with your—

Countess (Sees . Hastens to him).—They are following up the Count! Save, protect him!

Marie.—Tomsi, do not permit them to kill the Count!

Tomeš (Sharply).—How can I place into your hands, one who is now probably in the hands of my people! (Considering) But to you, noble lady, I must be eternally grateful. Ask whatever you wish!