Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/356

 Doctor, and we do not know how to talk to you. But on my soul, this is a disappointment, a bitter disappointment!

Cerny.—But Valtera!

Valtera (Turning upon ).—Isn’t this enough to make one shed tears? But you know I warned you he might refuse us! The great freeholder,—it may be as it may,—but he should have a warm spot in his heart for us, the struggling common people!

Dr. Svoboda.—Valtera! You do not know how hard you are making it for me! (Turning in doubt to .) If there were any possible way

Broz (Warningly).—Doctor!

Prouza.—It must be possible! Won’t you try to give up something else but do  do not abandon us now!

Dr. Svoboda.—If you only realized my time

Prouza.—Just this one time we will not come again!

Dr. Svoboda (To himself).—This is painful. (To ) I must conserve the time in some other way. (To the deputation) Then I will accept the office this time, once more!

Valtera.—Glory! Glory!

Prouza.—Accept, beloved friend, our heartfelt thanks. It comes from the deths of our hearts. All the village will bless you!

Dr. Svoboda.—Be well, and may you prosper, gentlemen! Till we meet again!

(The deputation leaves.)

Broz.—In vain to reason with you is all in vain!

(The door half opens; appears.)

Anezka.—Father, Mr. Prokop has arrived.

Dr. Svoboda.—Where is he?

Anezka.—We are bringing him with us. (Enter with  and .)

Dr. Svoboda.—I welcome you, dear Jirik! I see you have grown up, yet to me you are just a boy still.

Prokop.—Just as I was twenty years ago.

Broz.—Respected Doctor!

Dr. Svoboda (Dismissing Broz).—My dear friend, do not