Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/529

 John (After a pause).—Well, Hans, what do you say to my proposal?

Hans.—You mean that you actually dare?

John.—I am sure it will be best for both of us to come to an immediate understanding. Every minute lost is to be regretted, not so much on my account, but on yours. The money is ready.

Hans.—Now we have finished. This is the last word for the present.

John.—Just as you say. So you are not sorry later.

Ann (As returns).—Mr. Karvan, I don’t know just what to say after all that has happened. I feel very much depressed. Yet I must not forget. I am the mistress of the house I think everything will yield to reason in time. When you care to retire, Mr. Karvan, the couch is ready. Granny is waiting. She will show you.

Hans.—With you under the same roof? Not a single night! I remain here in the garden.

Ann.—Be sure that your words will never cause you a pang when you recall them.

Hans (Kindly).—I mean I shall stay here with Andrew and watch beside father. There is very little of the night left anyway. Tomorrow, or rather, this morning, everything will be decided. I shall report to you what takes place.

John.—I hope you do not think I am afraid of you, rebel. You can’t do a thing to me tomorrow, you Siberian outlaw. You do not stop to think of one thing. You are a fugitive from military service. Do you know what that carries with it? You have evaded military duty in the Austrian army as a conscript. Do you know what that means for you? It means that unless you disappear before daybreak, you may tomorrow be resting under the roof with the Austrian Eagle floating above it.

Hans.—Go, go on! But remember that I am quick tempered.

John.—Only take care, Hans, that you do not go on before I do.

( and go right.  stands a moment in a thoughtfull attitude.  is heard off, laughing and saying, “He thinks!”  steps to  quickly as he stands with his back to her. Then she stops and thinks. Finally she turns and resolutely hastens away.)