Page:Poet Lore, volume 36, 1925.pdf/380

 (Suddenly ceases.) Ah—(having spied the holding the wooden shoes, she laughs) Those are my wooden shoes.

enters from the rear behind the bridge, stands among the trees.

Courtier (Jesting gallantly).—And charming ones indeed. I will keep one for a souvenir, and for the other you shall come to me.

Hanička (Snatches both forcefully away from him).—I have both now, and I’ll give you neither this one nor the other. Have a care, sir, this is not a shoe of silk; it is of wood and steps hard.

(Hurries off for the mill, singing merrily.)

Courtier (Gazes after her with wonder).—As fresh as a raspberry! A raspberry, so much so that one forgets! And not a stupid country girl either. But I have received—

Magistrate.—So please you—eh—that is—

Courtier (Again assuming his former dignity).—Why did you not inform me?

is amused by this and smiles.

Magistrate.—Who would have dreamed of such boldness!

Courtier.—You ought to be acquainted with it. Take the girl away from here.

Magistrate.—The miller will rebel.

Courtier.—We’ll humble him; you just wait.

Princess (Stepping on the bridge, calls four times).—My Lord Count—

Courtier (Surprised).—O, Your Grace! (Advances toward her)

Princess.—You here?

Courtier.—I desire to see the defiant miller.

Princess.—And acquaint yourself with the provincial footgear of this district.

Courtier (Bites his lip).—I am going with official zeal—

Princess.—That girl is exceedingly clever.

Courtier.—Exceedingly bold, Your Grace.

Princess.—I wish to speak with her as well as with the miller. I’ll look into the mill.

Courtier (Hurriedly).—That is impossible. Your Grace, that