Page:Poet Lore, volume 36, 1925.pdf/385

 Miller.—No!

Grandmother.—Remember the old prophecy, that whoever wishes to overthrow that linden shall behold a sign from heaven.

Magistrate.—Old sybil, you will not frighten us away by that.

Courtier.—That linden shall fall just as surely as you shall yield that orphan girl.

Miller (Threateningly).—I stand here, and if anyone venture on the errand you speak of, I swear by God himself that he must kill me first before he cross my threshold; I will not permit her to be dishonored or driven off into your slavery.

Magistrate and Courtier.—Rebel! You shall obey!

Miller.—You have no business giving me orders.

Princess.—But I! (Entering hastily from the bridge).—I, the Princess, a noblewoman, command you. Let us see the girl, I wish to see her.

Miller.—In this case, I refuse to obey even you, Your Grace.

Princess.—But in one instance, you will obey. Bring forth the lantern!

Miller (Taken aback).—How—and why—?

Princess.—Bring forth the lantern as is your duty.

Miller (Wavers a moment, then leaves).—Grandmother, go to Hanička. (Enters the mill. follows him.)

Magistrate (Bowing).—O, Your Grace was the only one to subdue him. And what a rascal he is!

Princess (Ignoring the, addressing the merrily).—Are you satisfied?

Courtier.But I don’t know, Your Grace—I fear—

Princess (Merrily).—I believe you. Is it “regards” again? (To the .) And bring forth that young girl

Magistrate.—Your Grace, he—the miller—you deigned to see and hear—And there is a workman in the mill, his faithful assistant—

Courtier.—This is really a critical moment.

Princess.—I desire nothing but to speak to that young girl; nothing else, do you understand?—And here is my lantern-bearer and (To the ) my Daphnis.