Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/357

 look so gloomy. This afternoon we must have a council and talk over all our plans.

Broz (To himself, shaking his head)—And by tomorrow, it may be too late. (Goes away.)

Dr. Svoboda.—And now, my Jirik, what is happening in Prague?

Prokop.—Everyone is looking forward to the coming election. It will take place within five weeks. The excitement is increasing from day today. The establishment of People’s Savings Banks, reports of the preparations which are being made against us, that all reacts upon the people like the sounding of an alarm.

Dr. Svoboda.—What a pity that I cannot be in Prague!

Prokop.—For the present, Honorable Doctor, you are needed more here. We are counting greatly upon your support.

Dr. Svoboda.—In what capacity?

Prokop.—In this: that you will use your influence to persuade the great holders of estates to remain, in this surrounding district, loyal to their historic traditions. I have been sent out to obtain, if possible, a reliable report from each. I must go directly from here to the Soukup, the Zahradka estates, and then to Baron Siegdorf. We are uncertain about them.

Dr. Svoboda.—Soukup is with us,—but Baron Siegdorf is exceedingly uncertain. The others, Siegdorf is now present here  (Looks at his daughters.)

Filipina.—He is with mamma in the park.

Dr. Svoboda.—Come, my friend! We will speak with him before he leaves. (Rising)

Prokop.—Very well. (Rises. All leave.)

Dr. Svoboda.—If it is in any way possible, I will ride to the Soukup estate with you. (Leaving. Enter and  from the right.)

Dr. Svoboda (Questioningly).—I have the honor?

Jaroslav.—My esteemed friend and former University associate.

Neufeld.—Max Neufeld, son of the banker Neufeld of Vienna.

Dr. Svoboda.—Can I be of any service to you?

Neufeld.—My father desires very much to buy up some property in Bohemia. I thought at once of my friend, your es-