Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/372

 actuality is impossible. But even in that case, you are not in need of my advice.

Dr. Svoboda.—Why?

Prokop.—Because I feel assured that every step you take will be guided by one leading star.

Dr. Svoboda.—And that is?

Prokop.—Your conviction.

Dr. Svoboda.—And if by my conviction, I should spoil the wedding of my daughter?

Prokop.—The wedding of your daughter? If the husband you have chosen for your daughter is honorable and worthy of your confidence, surely he would not retract because you cannot give the lady her dowry?

Dr. Svoboda.—And do you think there still are people in the world so noble?

Prokop (With emphasis).—There are.

Dr. Svoboda.—In your words, there is still a spark of idealism. It is possibly the last I shall ever hear. (Enter the servant.)

Servant.—My lady with Baron Siegdorf.

PropkopProkop [sic].—Siegdorf?

Dr. Svoboda.—If you will be so good, my Jiri, go to my children for a few minutes.

( leaves to the left. From the right comes with . The  leaves.)

Siegdorf.—Doctor! (Runs to the doctor with outstretched hands.)

Dr. Svoboda.—I have the honor, Baron?

Siegdorf.—Are you not thinking, kind neighbor, that I have come back again to borrow money?

Dr. Svoboda (With a Laugh)—Not at all! Not at all!

Siegdorf.—That pleases me greatly! For listen, doctor—I have already told your gracious lady—I have blossomed out of my difficulties—and how?

Dr. Svoboda.—What is this? Did you inherit something, then?

Siegdorf.—Not at all. My good aunt has not as yet been kind enough to die. But in spite of that, I now have in my pocket 160,000—clear money mine