Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/392

 if we never meet again, I only ask that you will return to my grave at times

Filipina—Father!

Dr. Svoboda—The Lord be with you! (Turning away from her. Filipina hastens after her mother.)

Jaroslav—(Stepping to the front)—Be in good health, father! And if your conscience ever awakens, and you realize what you have done, then find some philosophical formula to quiet and console you. (Offers his hand) I have been nothing, I am nothing now and I take with me from here, (reaching for the revolver on the table) this weapon, so that if necessity drive! me to it, I will be true to my destiny and become nothing indeed.

Dr. Svoboda—Jaroslav!

Jaroslav—Until we mect again! (Hurries after his mother and sister to the left.)

Dr. Svoboda—My wife, my children! They are leaving me! Have I then been a traitor to my family? Should I have changed me decision? And my third child! Where is Anezka? (Steps advancing from the right) I hear steps that must be she! ( enters.) Oh!

Neufeld (With an evil laugh)—Good Evening, Doctor! Do not be afraid! You see it is I, Neufeld!

Dr. Svoboda—Leave my house at once!

Neufeld (Bursting into laughter)—Your house! What an idea!

Dr. Svoboda—Away!

Neufeld—Certainly, I can go if you so desire for I have a place to stay. But where will Your Highness go, where will you find another roof to shelter you after I leave? And has Your Grace the proper clothes, and a wallet sufficiently large to take you forth upon that journey, that very long journey from your castle?

Dr. Svoboda—Leave, I tell you! Or I will send you to hell!

Neufeld—Here we have your glory, your former grand