Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/360

 where there is nothing to draw upon, then neither the Jew nor the devil can carry anything away. ( tries to interrupt.) Compose yourself, mother! Look at the situation calmly, and prepare yourself for a great blow.

Klementina (With astonishment).—What kind of blow?

Jaroslav.—Our estate is not valued at even a half million as the forests are practically chopped out and destroyed. We cannot scrape together money enough so you could have your coach-horses and go about in proper style to pay your calls. ( tries to interrupt.) No, we have not! You will not accomplish anything by growing angry and flying into a fit of temper so, be calm. But good fortune has brought us some one, (With emphasis,) who urges us to accept 650,000 florins for the estate. I will run the figure up to 670,000 before I am through with him—(Adding quickly,)—that 20,000 will fall to me. Do you consent to the sale?

Klementina.—Without a single condition.

Jaroslav (With emphasis).—But father will surely object. He knows the estate would fall into German hands, even before election! Can you manage to overcome his opposition?

Klementina (Quickly).—I will. For the sake of you and your sisters, for the protection of your father and myself, I must. Today, we are all standing on the very verge of ruin. By the sale of the estate we can be saved! With this acquired amount, we can marry off both your sisters creditably, and you and I can both indulge our tastes once more. (With emphasis.) I must induce your father to sell the estate!

Jaroslav.—Splendid!

(Enter )

Dr. Svoboda (Angrily).—Klementina, have you heard of the insolence of this Neufeld, who is urging me to sell out to the opposite side?

Klementin aKlementina [sic] (Looking the doctor straight in the eye).—Yes. I know all about it.

Neufeld (Seated).—I thank you, gracious lady, for the interest you have taken in my plans.