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diff --git a/old/files/relative.htm b/old/files/relative.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6c63fec --- /dev/null +++ b/old/files/relative.htm @@ -0,0 +1,6222 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Piccolomini, by Friedrich Schiller + </title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 100%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 1 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + --> +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Piccolomini, by Friedrich Schiller + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net + + +Title: The Piccolomini + A Play + +Author: Friedrich Schiller + +Release Date: October 26, 2006 [EBook #6786] +Last Updated: November 6, 2012 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PICCOLOMINI *** + + + + +Produced by Tapio Riikonen and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <h1> + THE PICCOLOMINI, + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Friedrich Schiller + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Translated by S. T. Coleridge. + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + "Upon the whole there can be no doubt that this trilogy forms, in its + original tongue, one of the most splendid specimens of tragic art the + world has witnessed; and none at all, that the execution of the version + from which we have quoted so largely, places Mr. Coleridge in the very + first rank of poetical translators. He is, perhaps, the solitary example + of a man of very great original genius submitting to all the labors, and + reaping all the honors of this species of literary exertion."—Blackwood, + 1823. + </p> + <hr /> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> <b>PREFACE.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <b>DRAMATIS PERSONAE.</b> </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> <b>ACT I.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> SCENE I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> SCENE II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> SCENE III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> SCENE IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> SCENE V. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0009"> <b>ACT II.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> SCENE I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0011"> SCENE II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> SCENE III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> SCENE IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0014"> SCENE V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0015"> SCENE VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0016"> SCENE VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0017"> <b>ACT III.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0018"> SCENE I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0019"> SCENE II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0020"> SCENE III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0021"> SCENE IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0022"> SCENE V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0023"> SCENE VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0024"> SCENE VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0025"> SCENE VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0026"> SCENE IX. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0027"> <b>ACT IV.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0028"> SCENE I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0029"> SCENE II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> SCENE III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> SCENE IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0032"> SCENE V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0033"> SCENE VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0034"> SCENE VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0035"> <b>ACT V.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0036"> SCENE I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0037"> SCENE II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0038"> SCENE III. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_FOOT"> <b>FOOTNOTES.</b> </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + The two dramas,—PICCOLOMINI, or the first part of WALLENSTEIN, and + the DEATH OF WALLENSTEIN, are introduced in the original manuscript by a + prelude in one act, entitled WALLENSTEIN'S CAMP. This is written in rhyme, + and in nine-syllable verse, in the same lilting metre (if that expression + may be permitted), with the second Eclogue of Spenser's Shepherd's + Calendar. + </p> + <p> + This prelude possesses a sort of broad humor, and is not deficient in + character: but to have translated it into prose, or into any other metre + than that of the original, would have given a false idea both of its style + and purport; to have translated it into the same metre would have been + incompatible with a faithful adherence to the sense of the German from the + comparative poverty of our language in rhymes; and it would have been + unadvisable, from the incongruity of those lax verses with the present + taste of the English public. Schiller's intention seems to have been + merely to have prepared his reader for the tragedies by a lively picture + of laxity of discipline and the mutinous dispositions of Wallenstein's + soldiery. It is not necessary as a preliminary explanation. For these + reasons it has been thought expedient not to translate it. + </p> + <p> + The admirers of Schiller, who have abstracted their idea of that author + from the Robbers, and the Cabal and Love, plays in which the main interest + is produced by the excitement of curiosity, and in which the curiosity is + excited by terrible and extraordinary incident, will not have perused + without some portion of disappointment the dramas, which it has been my + employment to translate. They should, however, reflect that these are + historical dramas taken from a popular German history; that we must, + therefore, judge of them in some measure with the feelings of Germans; or, + by analogy, with the interest excited in us by similar dramas in our own + language. Few, I trust, would be rash or ignorant enough to compare + Schiller with Shakspeare; yet, merely as illustration, I would say that we + should proceed to the perusal of Wallenstein, not from Lear or Othello, + but from Richard II., or the three parts of Henry VI. We scarcely expect + rapidity in an historical drama; and many prolix speeches are pardoned + from characters whose names and actions have formed the most amusing tales + of our early life. On the other hand, there exist in these plays more + individual beauties, more passages whose excellence will bear reflection + than in the former productions of Schiller. The description of the + Astrological Tower, and the reflections of the Young Lover, which follow + it, form in the original a fine poem; and my translation must have been + wretched indeed if it can have wholly overclouded the beauties of the + scene in the first act of the first play between Questenberg, Max, and + Octavio Piccolomini. If we except the scene of the setting sun in the + Robbers, I know of no part in Schiller's plays which equals the first + scene of the fifth act of the concluding plays. [In this edition, scene + iii., act v.] It would be unbecoming in me to be more diffuse on this + subject. A translator stands connected with the original author by a + certain law of subordination which makes it more decorous to point out + excellences than defects; indeed, he is not likely to be a fair judge of + either. The pleasure or disgust from his own labor will mingle with the + feelings that arise from an afterview of the original. Even in the first + perusal of a work in any foreign language which we understand, we are apt + to attribute to it more excellence than it really possesses from our own + pleasurable sense of difficulty overcome without effort. Translation of + poetry into poetry is difficult, because the translator must give a + brilliancy to his language without that warmth of original conception from + which such brilliancy would follow of its own accord. But the translator + of a living author is incumbered with additional inconveniences. If he + render his original faithfully as to the sense of each passage, he must + necessarily destroy a considerable portion of the spirit; if he endeavor + to give a work executed according to laws of compensation he subjects + himself to imputations of vanity or misrepresentation. I have thought it + my duty to remain bound by the sense of my original with as few exceptions + as the nature of the languages rendered possible. S. T. C. + </p> + <p> + THE PICCOLOMINI. <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + DRAMATIS PERSONAE. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + WALLENSTEIN, Duke of Friedland, Generalissimo of the Imperial Forces + in the Thirty Years' War. + OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI, Lieutenant-General. + MAX. PICCOLOMINI, his Son, Colonel of a Regiment of Cuirassiers. + COUNT TERZKY, the Commander of several Regiments, and Brother-in-law + of Wallenstein. + ILLO, Field-Marshal, Wallenstein's Confidant. + ISOLANI, General of the Croats. + BUTLER, an Irishman, Commander of a Regiment of Dragoons. + TIEFENBACH, | + DON MARADAS, | Generals under Wallenstein. + GOETZ, | + KOLATTO, | + NEUMANN, Captain of Cavalry, Aide-de-Camp to Terzky. + VON QUESTENBERG, the War Commissioner, Imperial Envoy. + BAPTISTA SENI, an Astrologer. + DUCHESS OF FRIEDLAND, Wife of Wallenstein. + THEKLA, her Daughter, Princess of Friedland. + THE COUNTESS TERZRY, Sister of the Duchess. + A CORNET. + COLONELS and GENERALS (several). + PAGES and ATTENDANTS belonging to Wallenstein. + ATTENDANTS and HOBOISTS belonging to Terzky. + MASTER OF THE CELLAR to Count Terzky. + VALET DE CHAMBRE of Count Piccolomini. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT I. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + An old Gothic Chamber in the Council-House at Pilsen, + decorated with Colors and other War Insignia. + + ILLO, with BUTLER and ISOLANI. + + ILLO. + Ye have come too late-but ye are come! The distance, + Count Isolani, excuses your delay. + + ISOLANI. + Add this too, that we come not empty-handed. + At Donauwerth <a href="#linknote-1" name="linknoteref-1" id="linknoteref-1">1</a> it was reported to us, + A Swedish caravan was on its way, + Transporting a rich cargo of provision, + Almost six hundreds wagons. This my Croats + Plunged down upon and seized, this weighty prize!— + We bring it hither—— + + ILLO. + Just in time to banquet + The illustrious company assembled here. + + BUTLER. + 'Tis all alive! a stirring scene here! + + ISOLANI. + Ay! + The very churches are full of soldiers. + [Casts his eye round. + And in the council-house, too, I observe, + You're settled quite at home! Well, well! we soldiers + Must shift and suit us in what way we can. + + ILLO. + We have the colonels here of thirty regiments. + You'll find Count Terzky here, and Tiefenbach, + Kolatto, Goetz, Maradas, Hinnersam, + The Piccolomini, both son and father— + You'll meet with many an unexpected greeting + From many an old friend and acquaintance. Only + Gallas is wanting still, and Altringer. + + BUTLER. + Expect not Gallas. + + ILLO (hesitating). + How so? Do you know—— + + ISOLANI (interrupting him). + Max. Piccolomini here? O bring me to him. + I see him yet ('tis now ten years ago, + We were engaged with Mansfeldt hard by Dessau), + I see the youth, in my mind's eye I see him, + Leap his black war-horse from the bridge adown, + And t'ward his father, then in extreme peril, + Beat up against the strong tide of the Elbe. + The down was scarce upon his chin! I hear + He has made good the promise of his youth, + And the full hero now is finished in him. + + ILLO. + You'll see him yet ere evening. He conducts + The Duchess Friedland hither, and the princess <a href="#linknote-2" + name="linknoteref-2" id="linknoteref-2">2</a> + From Caernthen <a href="#linknote-3" name="linknoteref-3" id="linknoteref-3">3</a>. We expect them here at noon. + + BUTLER. + Both wife and daughter does the duke call hither? + He crowds in visitants from all sides. + + ISOLANI. + Hm! + So much the better! I had framed my mind + To hear of naught but warlike circumstance, + Of marches and attacks, and batteries; + And lo! the duke provides, and something too + Of gentler sort and lovely, should be present + To feast our eyes. + + ILLO (who has been standing in the attitude of meditation, to BUTLER, + whom he leads a little on one side). + And how came you to know + That the Count Gallas joins us not? + + BUTLER. + Because + He importuned me to remain behind. + + ILLO (with warmth). + And you? You hold out firmly! + [Grasping his hand with affection. + Noble Butler! + + BUTLER. + After the obligation which the duke + Had laid so newly on me—— + + ILLO. + I had forgotten + A pleasant duty—major-general, + I wish you joy! + + ISOLANI. + What, you mean, of this regiment? + I hear, too, that to make the gift still sweeter, + The duke has given him the very same + In which he first saw service, and since then + Worked himself step by step, through each preferment, + From the ranks upwards. And verily, it gives + A precedent of hope, a spur of action + To the whole corps, if once in their remembrance + An old deserving soldier makes his way. + + BUTLER. + I am perplexed and doubtful whether or no + I dare accept this your congratulation. + The emperor has not yet confirmed the appointment. + + ISOLANI. + Seize it, friend, seize it! The hand which in that post + Placed you is strong enough to keep you there, + Spite of the emperor and his ministers! + + ILLO. + Ay, if we would but so consider it!— + If we would all of us consider it so! + The emperor gives us nothing; from the duke + Comes all—whate'er we hope, whate'er we have. + + ISOLANI (to ILLO). + My noble brother! did I tell you how + The duke will satisfy my creditors? + Will be himself my bankers for the future, + Make me once more a creditable man! + And this is now the third time, think of that! + This kingly-minded man has rescued me + From absolute ruin and restored my honor. + + ILLO. + Oh that his power but kept pace with his wishes! + Why, friend! he'd give the whole world to his soldiers. + But at Vienna, brother!—here's the grievance,— + What politic schemes do they not lay to shorten + His arm, and where they can to clip his pinions. + Then these new dainty requisitions! these + Which this same Questenberg brings hither! + + BUTLER. + Ay! + Those requisitions of the emperor— + I too have heard about them; but I hope + The duke will not draw back a single inch! + + ILLO. + Not from his right most surely, unless first + From office! + + BUTLER (shocked and confused). + Know you aught then? You alarm me. + + ISOLANI (at the same time with BUTLER, and in a hurrying voice). + We should be ruined, every one of us! + + ILLO. + Yonder I see our worthy friend [spoken with a sneer] approaching + With the Lieutenant-General Piccolomini. + + BUTLER (shaking his head significantly). + I fear we shall not go hence as we came. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Enter OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI and QUESTENBERG. + + OCTAVIO (still in the distance). + Ay! ah! more still! Still more new visitors! + Acknowledge, friend! that never was a camp, + Which held at once so many heads of heroes. + + QUESTENBERG. + Let none approach a camp of Friedland's troops + Who dares to think unworthily of war; + E'en I myself had nigh forgot its evils + When I surveyed that lofty soul of order, + By which, while it destroys the world—itself + Maintains the greatness which itself created. + + OCTAVIO (approaching nearer). + Welcome, Count Isolani! + + ISOLANI. + My noble brother! + Even now am I arrived; it has been else my duty—— + + OCTAVIO. + And Colonel Butler—trust me, I rejoice + Thus to renew acquaintance with a man + Whose worth and services I know and honor. + See, see, my friend! + There might we place at once before our eyes + The sum of war's whole trade and mystery— + + [To QUESTENBERG, presenting BUTLER and ISOLANI at the same time + to him. + + These two the total sum—strength and despatch. + + QUESTENBERG (to OCTAVIO). + And lo! betwixt them both, experienced prudence! + + OCTAVIO (presenting QUESTENBERG to BUTLER and ISOLANI). + The Chamberlain and War-Commissioner Questenberg. + The bearer of the emperor's behests,— + The long-tried friend and patron of all soldiers, + We honor in this noble visitor. + [Universal silence. + + ILLO (moving towards QUESTENBERG). + 'Tis not the first time, noble minister, + You've shown our camp this honor. + + QUESTENBERG. + Once before + I stood beside these colors. + + ILLO. + Perchance too you remember where that was; + It was at Znaeim <a href="#linknote-4" name="linknoteref-4" id="linknoteref-4">4</a> in Moravia, where + You did present yourself upon the part + Of the emperor to supplicate our duke + That he would straight assume the chief command. + + QUESTENBURG. + To supplicate? Nay, bold general! + So far extended neither my commission + (At least to my own knowledge) nor my zeal. + + ILLO. + Well, well, then—to compel him, if you choose, + I can remember me right well, Count Tilly + Had suffered total rout upon the Lech. + Bavaria lay all open to the enemy, + Whom there was nothing to delay from pressing + Onwards into the very heart of Austria. + At that time you and Werdenberg appeared + Before our general, storming him with prayers, + And menacing the emperor's displeasure, + Unless he took compassion on this wretchedness. + + ISOLANI (steps up to them). + Yes, yes, 'tis comprehensible enough, + Wherefore with your commission of to-day, + You were not all too willing to remember + Your former one. + + QUESTENBERG. + + Why not, Count Isolani? + No contradiction sure exists between them. + It was the urgent business of that time + To snatch Bavaria from her enemy's hand; + And my commission of to-day instructs me + To free her from her good friends and protectors. + + ILLO. + A worthy office! After with our blood + We have wrested this Bohemia from the Saxon, + To be swept out of it is all our thanks, + The sole reward of all our hard-won victories. + + QUESTENBERG. + Unless that wretched land be doomed to suffer + Only a change of evils, it must be + Freed from the scourge alike of friend or foe. + + ILLO. + What? 'Twas a favorable year; the boors + Can answer fresh demands already. + + QUESTENBERG. + Nay, + If you discourse of herds and meadow-grounds—— + + ISOLANI. + The war maintains the war. Are the boors ruined + The emperor gains so many more new soldiers. + + QUESTENBERG. + And is the poorer by even so many subjects. + + ISOLANI. + Poh! we are all his subjects. + + QUESTENBERG. + Yet with a difference, general! The one fill + With profitable industry the purse, + The others are well skilled to empty it. + The sword has made the emperor poor; the plough + Must reinvigorate his resources. + + ISOLANI. + Sure! + Times are not yet so bad. Methinks I see + [Examining with his eye the dress and ornaments of QUESTENBERG. + Good store of gold that still remains uncoined. + + QUESTENBERG. + Thank Heaven! that means have been found out to hide + Some little from the fingers of the Croats. + + ILLO. + There! The Stawata and the Martinitz, + On whom the emperor heaps his gifts and graces, + To the heart-burning of all good Bohemians— + Those minions of court favor, those court harpies, + Who fatten on the wrecks of citizens + Driven from their house and home—who reap no harvests + Save in the general calamity— + Who now, with kingly pomp, insult and mock + The desolation of their country—these, + Let these, and such as these, support the war, + The fatal war, which they alone enkindled! + + BUTLER. + And those state-parasites, who have their feet + So constantly beneath the emperor's table, + Who cannot let a benefice fall, but they + Snap at it with dogs' hunger—they, forsooth, + Would pare the soldiers bread and cross his reckoning! + + ISOLANI. + My life long will it anger me to think, + How when I went to court seven years ago, + To see about new horses for our regiment, + How from one antechamber to another + They dragged me on and left me by the hour + To kick my heels among a crowd of simpering + Feast-fattened slaves, as if I had come thither + A mendicant suitor for the crumbs of favor + That fell beneath their tables. And, at last, + Whom should they send me but a Capuchin! + Straight I began to muster up my sins + For absolution—but no such luck for me! + This was the man, this Capuchin, with whom + I was to treat concerning the army horses! + And I was forced at last to quit the field, + The business unaccomplished. Afterwards + The duke procured me in three days what I + Could not obtain in thirty at Vienna. + + QUESTENBERG. + Yes, yes! your travelling bills soon found their way to us! + Too well I know we have still accounts to settle. + + ILLO. + War is violent trade; one cannot always + Finish one's work by soft means; every trifle + Must not be blackened into sacrilege. + If we should wait till you, in solemn council, + With due deliberation had selected + The smallest out of four-and-twenty evils, + I' faith we should wait long— + "Dash! and through with it!" That's the better watchword. + Then after come what may come. 'Tis man's nature + To make the best of a bad thing once past. + A bitter and perplexed "what shall I do?" + Is worse to man than worst necessity. + + QUESTENBERG. + Ay, doubtless, it is true; the duke does spare us + The troublesome task of choosing. + + BUTLER. + Yes, the duke + Cares with a father's feelings for his troops; + But how the emperor feels for us, we see. + + QUESTENBERG. + His cares and feelings all ranks share alike, + Nor will he offer one up to another. + + ISOLANI. + And therefore thrusts he us into the deserts + As beasts of prey, that so he may preserve + His dear sheep fattening in his fields at home. + + QUESTENBERG (with a sneer). + Count! this comparison you make, not I. + + ILLO. + Why, were we all the court supposes us + 'Twere dangerous, sure, to give us liberty. + + QUESTENBERG (gravely). + You have taken liberty—it was not given you, + And therefore it becomes an urgent duty + To rein it in with the curbs. + + ILLO. + Expect to find a restive steed in us. + + QUESTENBERG. + A better rider may be found to rule it. + + ILLO. + He only brooks the rider who has tamed him. + + QUESTENBERG. + Ay, tame him once, and then a child may lead him. + + ILLO. + The child, we know, is found for him already. + + QUESTENBERG. + Be duty, sir, your study, not a name. + + BUTLER (who has stood aside with PICCOLOMINI, but with visible interest + in the conversation, advances). + Sir president, the emperor has in Germany + A splendid host assembled; in this kingdom + Full twenty thousand soldiers are cantoned, + With sixteen thousand in Silesia; + Ten regiments are posted on the Weser, + The Rhine, and Maine; in Swabia there are six, + And in Bavaria twelve, to face the Swedes; + Without including in the account the garrisons + Who on the frontiers hold the fortresses. + This vast and mighty host is all obedient + To Friedland's captains; and its brave commanders, + Bred in one school, and nurtured with one milk, + Are all excited by one heart and soul; + They are as strangers on the soil they tread, + The service is their only house and home. + No zeal inspires then for their country's cause, + For thousands like myself were born abroad; + Nor care they for the emperor, for one half + Deserting other service fled to ours, + Indifferent what their banner, whether 'twere, + The Double Eagle, Lily, or the Lion. + Yet one sole man can rein this fiery host + By equal rule, by equal love and fear; + Blending the many-nationed whole in one; + And like the lightning's fires securely led + Down the conducting rod, e'en thus his power + Rules all the mass, from guarded post to post, + From where the sentry hears the Baltic roar, + Or views the fertile vales of the Adige, + E'en to the body-guard, who holds his watch + Within the precincts of the imperial palace! + + QUESTENBERG. + What's the short meaning of this long harangue? + + BUTLER. + That the respect, the love, the confidence, + Which makes us willing subjects of Duke Friedland, + Are not to be transferred to the first comer + That Austria's court may please to send to us. + We have not yet so readily forgotten + How the command came into Friedland's hands. + Was it, forsooth, the emperor's majesty + That gave the army ready to his hand, + And only sought a leader for it? No. + The army then had no existence. He, + Friedland, it was who called it into being, + And gave it to his sovereign—but receiving + No army at his hand; nor did the emperor + Give Wallenstein to us as general. No, + It was from Wallenstein we first received + The emperor as our master and our sovereign; + And he, he only, binds us to our banners! + + OCTAVIO (interposing and addressing QUESTENBERG). + My noble friend, + This is no more than a remembrancing + That you are now in camp, and among warriors; + The soldier's boldness constitutes his freedom. + Could he act daringly, unless he dared + Talk even so? One runs into the other. + The boldness of this worthy officer, + [Pointing to BUTLER. + Which now is but mistaken in its mark, + Preserved, when naught but boldness could preserve it, + To the emperor, his capital city, Prague, + In a most formidable mutiny + Of the whole garrison. [Military music at a distance. + Hah! here they come! + + ILLO. + The sentries are saluting them: this signal + Announces the arrival of the duchess. + + OCTAVIO (to QUESTENBERG). + Then my son Max., too, has returned. 'Twas he + Fetched and attended them from Caernthen hither. + + ISOLANI (to ILLO). + Shall we not go in company to greet them? + + ILLO. + Well, let us go—Ho! Colonel Butler, come. + [To OCTAVIO. + You'll not forget that yet ere noon we meet + The noble envoy at the general's palace. + + [Exeunt all but QUESTENBERG and OCTAVIO. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + QUESTENBERG and OCTAVIO. + + QUESTENBERG (with signs of aversion and astonishment). + What have I not been forced to hear, Octavio! + What sentiments! what fierce, uncurbed defiance! + And were this spirit universal—— + + OCTAVIO. + Hm! + You're now acquainted with three-fourths of the army. + + QUESTENBERG. + Where must we seek, then, for a second host + To have the custody of this? That Illo + Thinks worse, I fear me, than he speaks. And then + This Butler, too—he cannot even conceal + The passionate workings of his ill intentions. + + OCTAVIO. + Quickness of temper—irritated pride; + 'Twas nothing more. I cannot give up Butler. + I know a spell that will soon dispossess + The evil spirit in him. + + QUESTENBERG (walking up and down in evident disquiet). + Friend, friend! + O! this is worse, far worse, than we had suffered + Ourselves to dream of at Vienna. There + We saw it only with a courtier's eyes, + Eyes dazzled by the splendor of the throne. + We had not seen the war-chief, the commander, + The man all-powerful in his camp. Here, here, + 'Tis quite another thing. + Here is no emperor more—the duke is emperor. + Alas, my friend! alas, my noble friend! + This walk which you have ta'en me through the camp + Strikes my hopes prostrate. + + OCTAVIO. + Now you see yourself + Of what a perilous kind the office is, + Which you deliver to me from the court. + The least suspicion of the general + Costs me my freedom and my life, and would + But hasten his most desperate enterprise. + + QUESTENBERG. + Where was our reason sleeping when we trusted + This madman with the sword, and placed such power + In such a hand? I tell you, he'll refuse, + Flatly refuse to obey the imperial orders. + Friend, he can do it, and what he can, he will. + And then the impunity of his defiance— + Oh! what a proclamation of our weakness! + + OCTAVIO. + D'ye think, too, he has brought his wife and daughter + Without a purpose hither? Here in camp! + And at the very point of time in which + We're arming for the war? That he has taken + These, the last pledges of his loyalty, + Away from out the emperor's dominions— + This is no doubtful token of the nearness + Of some eruption. + + QUESTENBERG. + How shall we hold footing + Beneath this tempest, which collects itself + And threats us from all quarters? The enemy + Of the empire on our borders, now already + The master of the Danube, and still farther, + And farther still, extending every hour! + In our interior the alarum-bells + Of insurrection—peasantry in arms— + All orders discontented—and the army, + Just in the moment of our expectation + Of aidance from it—lo! this very army + Seduced, run wild, lost to all discipline, + Loosened, and rent asunder from the state + And from their sovereign, the blind instrument + Of the most daring of mankind, a weapon + Of fearful power, which at his will he wields. + + OCTAVIO. + Nay, nay, friend! let us not despair too soon + Men's words are even bolder than their deeds; + And many a resolute, who now appears + Made up to all extremes, will, on a sudden, + Find in his breast a heart he wot not of, + Let but a single honest man speak out + The true name of his crime! Remember, too, + We stand not yet so wholly unprotected. + Counts Altringer and Gallas have maintained + Their little army faithful to its duty, + And daily it becomes more numerous. + Nor can he take us by surprise; you know + I hold him all encompassed by my listeners. + What'er he does, is mine, even while 'tis doing— + No step so small, but instantly I hear it; + Yea, his own mouth discloses it. + + QUESTENBERG. + 'Tis quite + Incomprehensible, that he detects not + The foe so near! + + OCTAVIO. + Beware, you do not think, + That I, by lying arts, and complaisant + Hypocrisy, have sulked into his graces, + Or with the substance of smooth professions + Nourish his all-confiding friendship! No— + Compelled alike by prudence, and that duty + Which we all owe our country and our sovereign, + To hide my genuine feelings from him, yet + Ne'er have I duped him with base counterfeits! + + QUESTENBERG. + It is the visible ordinance of heaven. + + OCTAVIO. + I know not what it is that so attracts + And links him both to me and to my son. + Comrades and friends we always were—long habit, + Adventurous deeds performed in company, + And all those many and various incidents + Which stores a soldier's memory with affections, + Had bound us long and early to each other— + Yet I can name the day, when all at once + His heart rose on me, and his confidence + Shot out into sudden growth. It was the morning + Before the memorable fight at Luetzen. + Urged by an ugly dream, I sought him out, + To press him to accept another charger. + At a distance from the tents, beneath a tree, + I found him in a sleep. When I had waked him + And had related all my bodings to him, + Long time he stared upon me, like a man + Astounded: thereon fell upon my neck, + And manifested to me an emotion + That far outstripped the worth of that small service. + Since then his confidence has followed me + With the same pace that mine has fled from him. + + QUESTENBERG. + You lead your son into the secret? + + OCTAVIO. + No! + + QUESTENBERG. + What! and not warn him either, what bad hands + His lot has placed him in? + + OCTAVIO. + I must perforce + Leave him in wardship to his innocence. + His young and open soul—dissimulation + Is foreign to its habits! Ignorance + Alone can keep alive the cheerful air, + The unembarrassed sense and light free spirit, + That makes the duke secure. + + QUESTENBERG (anxiously). + My honored friend! most highly do I deem + Of Colonel Piccolomini—yet—if— + Reflect a little—— + + OCTAVIO. + I must venture it. + Hush! There he comes! +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MAX. PICCOLOMINI, OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI, QUESTENBERG. + + MAX. + Ha! there he is himself. Welcome, my father! + + [He embraces his father. As he turns round, he observes + QUESTENBERG, and draws back with a cold and reserved air. + + You are engaged, I see. I'll not disturb you. + + OCTAVIO. + How, Max.? Look closer at this visitor. + Attention, Max., an old friend merits—reverence + Belongs of right to the envoy of your sovereign. + + MAX. (drily). + Von Questenberg!—welcome—if you bring with you + Aught good to our headquarters. + + QUESTENBERG (seizing his hand). + Nay, draw not + Your hand away, Count Piccolimini! + Not on my own account alone I seized it, + And nothing common will I say therewith. + [Taking the hands of both. + Octavio—Max. Piccolomini! + O savior names, and full of happy omen! + Ne'er will her prosperous genius turn from Austria, + While two such stars, with blessed influences + Beaming protection, shine above her hosts. + + MAX. + Heh! Noble minister! You miss your part. + You come not here to act a panegyric. + You're sent, I know, to find fault and to scold us— + I must not be beforehand with my comrades. + + OCTAVIO (to MAX.). + He comes from court, where people are not quite + So well contented with the duke as here. + + MAX. + What now have they contrived to find out in him? + That he alone determines for himself + What he himself alone doth understand! + Well, therein he does right, and will persist in't + Heaven never meant him for that passive thing + That can be struck and hammered out to suit + Another's taste and fancy. He'll not dance + To every tune of every minister. + It goes against his nature—he can't do it, + He is possessed by a commanding spirit, + And his, too, is the station of command. + And well for us it is so! There exist + Few fit to rule themselves, but few that use + Their intellects intelligently. Then + Well for the whole, if there be found a man + Who makes himself what nature destined him, + The pause, the central point, to thousand thousands + Stands fixed and stately, like a firm-built column, + Where all may press with joy and confidence— + Now such a man is Wallenstein; and if + Another better suits the court—no other + But such a one as he can serve the army. + + QUESTENBERG. + The army? Doubtless! + + MAX. + What delight to observe + How he incites and strengthens all around him, + Infusing life and vigor. Every power + Seems as it were redoubled by his presence + He draws forth every latent energy, + Showing to each his own peculiar talent, + Yet leaving all to be what nature made them, + And watching only that they be naught else + In the right place and time; and he has skill + To mould the power's of all to his own end. + + QUESTENBERG. + But who denies his knowledge of mankind, + And skill to use it? Our complaint is this: + That in the master he forgets the servant, + As if he claimed by birth his present honors. + + MAX. + And does he not so? Is he not endowed + With every gift and power to carry out + The high intents of nature, and to win + A ruler's station by a ruler's talent? + + QUESTENBERG. + So then it seems to rest with him alone + What is the worth of all mankind beside! + + MAX. + Uncommon men require no common trust; + Give him but scope and he will set the bounds. + + QUESTENBERG. + The proof is yet to come. + + MAX. + Thus are ye ever. + Ye shrink from every thing of depth, and think + Yourselves are only safe while ye're in shallows. + + OCTAVIO (to QUESTENBERG). + 'Twere best to yield with a good grace, my friend; + Of him there you'll make nothing. + + MAX. (continuing). + In their fear + They call a spirit up, and when he comes, + Straight their flesh creeps and quivers, and they dread him + More than the ills for which they called him up. + The uncommon, the sublime, must seem and be + Like things of every day. But in the field, + Ay, there the Present Being makes itself felt. + The personal must command, the actual eye + Examine. If to be the chieftain asks + All that is great in nature, let it be + Likewise his privilege to move and act + In all the correspondences of greatness. + The oracle within him, that which lives, + He must invoke and question—not dead books, + Not ordinances, not mould-rotted papers. + + OCTAVIO. + My son! of those old narrow ordinances + Let us not hold too lightly. They are weights + Of priceless value, which oppressed mankind, + Tied to the volatile will of their oppressors. + For always formidable was the League + And partnership of free power with free will. + The way of ancient ordinance, though it winds, + Is yet no devious path. Straight forward goes + The lightning's path, and straight the fearful path + Of the cannon-ball. Direct it flies, and rapid; + Shattering that it may reach, and shattering what it reaches, + My son, the road the human being travels, + That, on which blessing comes and goes, doth follow + The river's course, the valley's playful windings, + Curves round the cornfield and the hill of vines, + Honoring the holy bounds of property! + And thus secure, though late, leads to its end. + + QUESTENBERG. + Oh, hear your father, noble youth! hear him + Who is at once the hero and the man. + + OCTAVIO. + My son, the nursling of the camp spoke in thee! + A war of fifteen years + Hath been thy education and thy school. + Peace hast thou never witnessed! There exists + An higher than the warrior's excellence. + In war itself war is no ultimate purpose, + The vast and sudden deeds of violence, + Adventures wild, and wonders of the moment, + These are not they, my son, that generate + The calm, the blissful, and the enduring mighty! + Lo there! the soldier, rapid architect! + Builds his light town of canvas, and at once + The whole scene moves and bustles momently. + With arms, and neighing steeds, and mirth and quarrel + The motley market fills; the roads, the streams + Are crowded with new freights; trade stirs and hurries, + But on some morrow morn, all suddenly, + The tents drop down, the horde renews its march. + Dreary, and solitary as a churchyard; + The meadow and down-trodden seed-plot lie, + And the year's harvest is gone utterly. + + MAX. + Oh, let the emperor make peace, my father! + Most gladly would I give the blood-stained laurel + For the first violet <a href="#linknote-5" name="linknoteref-5" + id="linknoteref-5">5</a> of the leafless spring, + Plucked in those quiet fields where I have journeyed. + + OCTAVIO. + What ails thee? What so moves thee all at once? + + MAX. + Peace have I ne'er beheld? I have beheld it. + From thence am I come hither: oh, that sight, + It glimmers still before me, like some landscape + Left in the distance,—some delicious landscape! + My road conducted me through countries where + The war has not yet reached. Life, life, my father— + My venerable father, life has charms + Which we have never experienced. We have been + But voyaging along its barren coasts, + Like some poor ever-roaming horde of pirates, + That, crowded in the rank and narrow ship, + House on the wild sea with wild usages, + Nor know aught of the mainland, but the bays + Where safeliest they may venture a thieves' landing. + Whate'er in the inland dales the land conceals + Of fair and exquisite, oh, nothing, nothing, + Do we behold of that in our rude voyage. + + OCTAVIO (attentive, with an appearance of uneasiness). + And so your journey has revealed this to you? + + MAX. + 'Twas the first leisure of my life. O tell me, + What is the meed and purpose of the toil, + The painful toil which robbed me of my youth, + Left me a heart unsouled and solitary, + A spirit uninformed, unornamented! + For the camp's stir, and crowd, and ceaseless larum, + The neighing war-horse, the air-shattering trumpet, + The unvaried, still returning hour of duty, + Word of command, and exercise of arms— + There's nothing here, there's nothing in all this, + To satisfy the heart, the gasping heart! + Mere bustling nothingness, where the soul is not— + This cannot be the sole felicity, + These cannot be man's best and only pleasures! + + OCTAVIO. + Much hast thou learnt, my son, in this short journey. + + MAX. + Oh day, thrice lovely! when at length the soldier + Returns home into life; when he becomes + A fellow-man among his fellow-men. + The colors are unfurled, the cavalcade + Mashals, and now the buzz is hushed, and hark! + Now the soft peace-march beats, home, brothers, home! + The caps and helmet are all garlanded + With green boughs, the last plundering of the fields. + The city gates fly open of themselves, + They need no longer the petard to tear them. + The ramparts are all filled with men and women, + With peaceful men and women, that send onwards. + Kisses and welcomings upon the air, + Which they make breezy with affectionate gestures. + From all the towers rings out the merry peal, + The joyous vespers of a bloody day. + O happy man, O fortunate! for whom + The well-known door, the faithful arms are open, + The faithful tender arms with mute embracing. + + QUESTENBERG (apparently much affected). + O that you should speak + Of such a distant, distant time, and not + Of the to-morrow, not of this to-day. + + MAX. (turning round to him quick and vehement). + Where lies the fault but on you in Vienna! + I will deal openly with you, Questenberg. + Just now, as first I saw you standing here + (I'll own it to you freely), indignation + Crowded and pressed my inmost soul together. + 'Tis ye that hinder peace, ye!—and the warrior, + It is the warrior that must force it from you. + Ye fret the general's life out, blacken him, + Hold him up as a rebel, and heaven knows + What else still worse, because he spares the Saxons, + And tries to awaken confidence in the enemy; + Which yet's the only way to peace: for if + War intermit not during war, how then + And whence can peace come? Your own plagues fall on you! + Even as I love what's virtuous, hate I you. + And here I make this vow, here pledge myself, + My blood shall spurt out for this Wallenstein, + And my heart drain off, drop by drop, ere ye + Shall revel and dance jubilee o'er his ruin. + [Exit. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + QUESTENBERG, OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI. + + QUESTENBERG. + Alas! alas! and stands it so? + [Then in pressing and impatient tones. + What friend! and do we let him go away + In this delusion—let him go away? + Not call him back immediately, not open + His eyes, upon the spot? + + OCTAVIO (recovering himself out of a deep study). + He has now opened mine, + And I see more than pleases me. + + QUESTENBERG. + What is it? + + OCTAVIO. + Curse on this journey! + + QUESTENBERG. + But why so? What is it? + + OCTAVIO. + Come, come along, friend! I must follow up + The ominous track immediately. Mine eyes + Are opened now, and I must use them. Come! + + [Draws QUESTENBERG on with him. + + QUESTENBERG. + What now? Where go you then? + + OCTAVIO. + To her herself. + + QUESTENBERG. + To—— + + OCTAVIO (interrupting him and correcting himself). + To the duke. Come, let us go 'Tis done, 'tis done, + I see the net that is thrown over him. + Oh! he returns not to me as he went. + + QUESTENBERG. + Nay, but explain yourself. + + OCTAVIO. + And that I should not + Foresee it, not prevent this journey! Wherefore + Did I keep it from him? You were in the right. + I should have warned him. Now it is too late. + + QUESTENBERG. + But what's too late? Bethink yourself, my friend, + That you are talking absolute riddles to me. + + OCTAVIO (more collected). + Come I to the duke's. 'Tis close upon the hour + Which he appointed you for audience. Come! + A curse, a threefold curse, upon this journey! + + [He leads QUESTENBERG off. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0009" id="link2H_4_0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT II. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Changes to a spacious chamber in the house of the Duke of + Friedland. Servants employed in putting the tables and chairs + in order. During this enters SENI, like an old Italian doctor, + in black, and clothed somewhat fantastically. He carries a white + staff, with which he marks out the quarters of the heavens. + + FIRST SERVANT. Come—to it, lads, to it! Make an end of it. I hear the + sentry call out, "Stand to your arms!" They will be here in a minute. + + SECOND SERVANT. Why were we not told before that the audience would be + held here? Nothing prepared—no orders—no instructions. + + THIRD SERVANT. Ay, and why was the balcony chamber countermanded, that + with the great worked carpet? There one can look about one. + + FIRST SERVANT. Nay, that you must ask the mathematician there. He says + it is an unlucky chamber. + + SECOND SERVANT. Poh! stuff and nonsense! that's what I call a hum. A + chamber is a chamber; what much can the place signify in the affair? + + SENI (with gravity). + My son, there's nothing insignificant, + Nothing! But yet in every earthly thing, + First and most principal is place and time. + + FIRST SERVANT (to the second). Say nothing to him, Nat. The duke + himself must let him have his own will. + + SENI (counts the chairs, half in a loud, half in a low voice, till + he comes to eleven, which he repeats). + Eleven! an evil number! Set twelve chairs. + Twelve! twelve signs hath the zodiac: five and seven, + The holy numbers, include themselves in twelve. + + SECOND SERVANT. And what may you have to object against eleven? I + should like to know that now. + + SENI. + Eleven is transgression; eleven oversteps + The ten commandments. + + SECOND SERVANT. That's good? and why do you call five a holy number? + + SENI. + Five is the soul of man: for even as man + Is mingled up of good and evil, so + The five is the first number that's made up + Of even and odd. + + SECOND SERVANT. The foolish old coxcomb! + + FIRST SERVANT. Ay! let him alone though. I like to hear him; there is + more in his words than can be seen at first sight. + + THIRD SERVANT. Off, they come. + + SECOND SERVANT. There! Out at the side-door. + + [They hurry off: SENI follows slowly. A page brings the staff + of command on a red cushion, and places it on the table, near the + duke's chair. They are announced from without, and the wings of + the door fly open. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0011" id="link2H_4_0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + WALLENSTEIN, DUCHESS. + + WALLENSTEIN. + You went, then, through Vienna, were presented + To the Queen of Hungary? + + DUCHESS. + Yes; and to the empress, too, + And by both majesties were we admitted + To kiss the hand. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And how was it received, + That I had sent for wife and daughter hither + To the camp, in winter-time? + + DUCHESS. + I did even that + Which you commissioned me to do. I told them + You had determined on our daughter's marriage, + And wished, ere yet you went into the field, + To show the elected husband his betrothed. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And did they guess the choice which I had made? + + DUCHESS. + They only hoped and wished it may have fallen + Upon no foreign nor yet Lutheran noble. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And you—what do you wish, Elizabeth? + + DUCHESS. + Your will, you know, was always mine. + + WALLENSTEIN (after a pause). + Well, then,— + And in all else, of what kind and complexion + Was your reception at the court? + [The DUCHESS casts her eyes on the ground, and remains silent. + Hide nothing from me. How were you received? + + DUCHESS. + O! my dear lord, all is not what it was. + A canker-worm, my lord, a canker-worm + Has stolen into the bud. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Ay! is it so? + What, they were lax? they failed of the old respect? + + DUCHESS. + Not of respect. No honors were omitted, + No outward courtesy; but in the place + Of condescending, confidential kindness, + Familiar and endearing, there were given me + Only these honors and that solemn courtesy. + Ah! and the tenderness which was put on, + It was the guise of pity, not of favor. + No! Albrecht's wife, Duke Albrecht's princely wife, + Count Harrach's noble daughter, should not so— + Not wholly so should she have been received. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Yes, yes; they have taken offence. My latest conduct + They railed at it, no doubt. + + DUCHESS. + O that they had! + I have been long accustomed to defend you, + To heal and pacify distempered spirits. + No; no one railed at you. They wrapped them up, + O Heaven! in such oppressive, solemn silence! + Here is no every-day misunderstanding, + No transient pique, no cloud that passes over; + Something most luckless, most unhealable, + Has taken place. The Queen of Hungary + Used formerly to call me her dear aunt, + And ever at departure to embrace me—— + + WALLENSTEIN. + Now she omitted it? + + DUCHESS (wiping away her tears after a pause). + She did embrace me, + But then first when I had already taken + My formal leave, and when the door already + Had closed upon me, then did she come out + In haste, as she had suddenly bethought herself, + And pressed me to her bosom, more with anguish + Than tenderness. + + WALLENSTEIN (seizes her hand soothingly). + Nay, now collect yourself. + And what of Eggenberg and Lichtenstein, + And of our other friends there? + + DUCHESS (shaking her head). + I saw none. + + WALLENSTEIN. + The ambassador from Spain, who once was wont + To plead so warmly for me? + + DUCHESS. + Silent, silent! + + WALLENSTEIN. + These suns then are eclipsed for us. Henceforward + Must we roll on, our own fire, our own light. + + DUCHESS. + And were it—were it, my dear lord, in that + Which moved about the court in buzz and whisper, + But in the country let itself be heard + Aloud—in that which Father Lanormain + In sundry hints and—— + + WALLENSTEIN (eagerly). + Lanormain! what said he? + + DUCHESS. + That you're accused of having daringly + O'erstepped the powers intrusted to you, charged + With traitorous contempt of the emperor + And his supreme behests. The proud Bavarian, + He and the Spaniards stand up your accusers— + That there's a storm collecting over you + Of far more fearful menace than the former one + Which whirled you headlong down at Regensburg. + And people talk, said he, of——Ah! + [Stifling extreme emotion. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Proceed! + + DUCHESS. + I cannot utter it! + + WALLENSTEIN. + Proceed! + + DUCHESS. + They talk—— + + WALLENSTEIN. + Well! + + DUCHESS. + Of a second—— + (catches her voice and hesitates.) + + WALLENSTEIN. + Second—— + + DUCHESS. + Most disgraceful + Dismission. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Talk they? + [Strides across the chamber in vehement agitation. + Oh! they force, they thrust me + With violence, against my own will, onward! + + DUCHESS (presses near him in entreaty). + Oh! if there yet be time, my husband, if + By giving way and by submission, this + Can be averted—my dear Lord, give way! + Win down your proud heart to it! Tell the heart, + It is your sovereign lord, your emperor, + Before whom you retreat. Oh! no longer + Low trickling malice blacken your good meaning + With abhorred venomous glosses. Stand you up + Shielded and helmed and weaponed with the truth, + And drive before you into uttermost shame + These slanderous liars! Few firm friends have we— + You know it! The swift growth of our good fortune + It hath but set us up a mark for hatred. + What are we, if the sovereign's grace and favor + Stand not before us! +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Enter the Countess TERZKY, leading in her hand the Princess THEKLA, + richly adorned with brilliants. + + COUNTESS, TEKLA, WALLENSTEIN, DUCHESS. + + COUNTESS. + How sister? What, already upon business? + [Observing the countenance of the DUCHESS. + And business of no pleasing kind I see, + Ere he has gladdened at his child. The first + Moment belongs to joy. Here, Friedland! father! + This is thy daughter. + + [THEKLA approaches with a shy and timid air, and bends herself as + about to kiss his hand. He receives her in his arms, and remains + standing for some time lost in the feeling of her presence. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Yes! pure and lovely hath hope risen on me, + I take her as the pledge of greater fortune. + + DUCHESS. + 'Twas but a little child when you departed + To raise up that great army for the emperor + And after, at the close of the campaign, + When you returned home out of Pomerania, + Your daughter was already in the convent, + Wherein she has remained till now. + + WALLENSTEIN. + The while + We in the field here gave our cares and toils + To make her great, and fight her a free way + To the loftiest earthly good; lo! mother Nature + Within the peaceful, silent convent walls, + Has done her part, and out of her free grace + Hath she bestowed on the beloved child + The god-like; and now leads her thus adorned + To meet her splendid fortune, and my hope. + + DUCHESS (to THEKLA). + Thou wouldst not now have recognized thy father, + Wouldst thou, my child? She counted scarce eight years + When last she saw your face. + + THEKLA. + O yes, yes, mother! + At the first glance! My father has not altered. + The form that stands before me falsifies + No feature of the image that hath lived + So long within me! + + WALLENSTEIN. + The voice of my child! + [Then after a pause. + I was indignant at my destiny, + That it denied me a man-child, to be + Heir of my name and of my prosperous fortune, + And re-illume my soon-extinguished being + In a proud line of princes. + I wronged my destiny. Here upon this head, + So lovely in its maiden bloom, will I + Let fall the garland of a life of war, + Nor deem it lost, if only I can wreath it, + Transmuted to a regal ornament, + Around these beauteous brows. + + [He clasps her in his arms as PICCOLOMINI enters. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Enter MAX. PICCOLOMINI, and some time after COUNT TERZKY, the + others remaining as before. + + COUNTESS. + There comes the Paladin who protected us. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Max.! Welcome, ever welcome! Always wert thou + The morning star of my best joys! + + MAX. + My general—— + + WALLENSTEIN. + Till now it was the emperor who rewarded thee, + I but the instrument. This day thou hast bound + The father to thee, Max.! the fortunate father, + And this debt Friedland's self must pay. + + MAX. + My prince! + You made no common hurry to transfer it. + I come with shame: yea, not without a pang! + For scarce have I arrived here, scarce delivered + The mother and the daughter to your arms, + But there is brought to me from your equerry <a href="#linknote-6" + name="linknoteref-6" id="linknoteref-6">6</a> + A splendid richly-plated hunting dress + So to remunerate me for my troubles— + Yes, yes, remunerate me,—since a trouble + It must be, a mere office, not a favor + Which I leaped forward to receive, and which + I came with grateful heart to thank you for. + No! 'twas not so intended, that my business + Should be my highest best good fortune! + + [TERZKY enters; and delivers letters to the DUKE, which he + breaks open hurriedly. + + COUNTESS (to MAX.). + Remunerate your trouble! For his joy, + He makes you recompense. 'Tis not unfitting + For you, Count Piccolomini, to feel + So tenderly—my brother it beseems + To show himself forever great and princely. + + THEKLA. + Then I too must have scruples of his love: + For his munificent hands did ornament me + Ere yet the father's heart had spoken to me. + + MAX + Yes; 'tis his nature ever to be giving + And making happy. + [He grasps the hand of the DUCHESS with still increasing warmth. + How my heart pours out + Its all of thanks to him! O! how I seem + To utter all things in the dear name—Friedland. + While I shall live, so long will I remain + The captive of this name: in it shall bloom + My every fortune, every lovely hope. + Inextricably as in some magic ring + In this name hath my destiny charm-bound me! + + COUNTESS (who during this time has been anxiously watching the DUKE, + and remarks that he is lost in thought over the letters). + My brother wishes us to leave him. Come. + + WALLENSTEIN (turns himself round quick, collects himself, and speaks + with cheerfulness to the DUCHESS). + Once more I bid thee welcome to the camp, + Thou art the hostess of this court. You, Max., + Will now again administer your old office, + While we perform the sovereign's business here. + + [MAX. PICCOLOMINI offers the DUCHESS his arm; the COUNTESS + accompanies the PRINCESS. + + TERZKY (calling after him). + Max., we depend on seeing you at the meeting. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0014" id="link2H_4_0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + WALLENSTEIN, COUNT TERZKY. + + WALLENSTEIN (in deep thought, to himself). + She has seen all things as they are—it is so, + And squares completely with my other notices, + They have determined finally in Vienna, + Have given me my successor already; + It is the King of Hungary, Ferdinand, + The emperor's delicate son! he's now their savior, + He's the new star that's rising now! Of us + They think themselves already fairly rid, + And as we were deceased, the heir already + Is entering on possession—Therefore—despatch! + + [As he turns round he observes TERZKY, and gives him a letter. + + Count Altringer will have himself excused, + And Gallas too—I like not this! + + TERZKY. + And if + Thou loiterest longer, all will fall away, + One following the other. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Altringer + Is master of the Tyrol passes. I must forthwith + Send some one to him, that he let not in + The Spaniards on me from the Milanese. + —Well, and the old Sesin, that ancient trader + In contraband negotiations, he + Has shown himself again of late. What brings he + From the Count Thur? + + TERZKY. + The count communicates + He has found out the Swedish chancellor + At Halberstadt, where the convention's held, + Who says, you've tired him out, and that he'll have + No further dealings with you. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And why so? + + TERZKY. + He says, you are never in earnest in your speeches; + That you decoy the Swedes—to make fools of them; + Will league yourself with Saxony against them, + And at last make yourself a riddance of them + With a paltry sum of money. + + WALLENSTEIN. + So then, doubtless, + Yes, doubtless, this same modest Swede expects + That I shall yield him some fair German tract + For his prey and booty, that ourselves at last + On our own soil and native territory + May be no longer our own lords and masters! + An excellent scheme! No, no! They must be off, + Off, off! away! we want no such neighbors. + + TERZKY. + Nay, yield them up that dot, that speck of land— + It goes not from your portion. If you win + The game, what matters it to you who pays it? + + WALLENSTEIN. + Off with them, off! Thou understand'st not this. + Never shall it be said of me, I parcelled + My native land away, dismembered Germany, + Betrayed it to a foreigner, in order + To come with stealthy tread, and filch away + My own share of the plunder—Never! never! + No foreign power shall strike root in the empire, + And least of all these Goths! these hungry wolves! + Who send such envious, hot, and greedy glances + Toward the rich blessings of our German lands! + I'll have their aid to cast and draw my nets, + But not a single fish of all the draught + Shall they come in for. + + TERZKY. + You will deal, however, + More fairly with the Saxons? they lose patience + While you shift round and make so many curves. + Say, to what purpose all these masks? Your friends + Are plunged in doubts, baffled, and led astray in you. + There's Oxenstiern, there's Arnheim—neither knows + What he should think of your procrastinations, + And in the end I prove the liar; all + Passes through me. I've not even your handwriting. + + WALLENSTEIN. + I never give handwriting; and thou knowest it. + + TERZKY. + But how can it be known that you are in earnest, + If the act follows not upon the word? + You must yourself acknowledge, that in all + Your intercourses hitherto with the enemy, + You might have done with safety all you have done. + Had you meant nothing further than to gull him + For the emperor's service. + + WALLENSTEIN (after a pause, during which he looks narrowly on TERZKY). + And from whence dost thou know + That I'm not gulling him for the emperor's service? + Whence knowest thou that I'm not gulling all of you? + Dost thou know me so well? When made I thee + The intendant of my secret purposes? + I am not conscious that I ever opened + My inmost thoughts to thee. The emperor, it is true, + Hath dealt with me amiss; and if I would + I could repay him with usurious interest + For the evil he hath done me. It delights me + To know my power; but whether I shall use it, + Of that I should have thought that thou couldst speak + No wiser than thy fellows. + + TERZKY. + So hast thou always played thy game with us. + + [Enter ILLO. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0015" id="link2H_4_0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ILLO, WALLENSTEIN, TERZKY. + + WALLENSTEIN. + How stand affairs without? Are they prepared? + + ILLO. + You'll find them in the very mood you wish. + They know about the emperor's requisition, + And are tumultuous. + + WALLENSTEIN. + How hath Isolani + declared himself? + + ILLO. + He's yours, both soul and body, + Since you built up again his faro-bank. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And which way doth Kolatto bend? Hast thou + Made sure of Tiefenbach and Deodati? + + ILLO. + What Piccolomini does that they do too. + + WALLENSTEIN. + You mean, then, I may venture somewhat with them? + + ILLO. + If you are assured of the Piccolomini. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Not more assured of mine own self. + + TERZKY. + And yet + I would you trusted not so much to Octavio, + The fox! + + WALLENSTEIN. + Thou teachest me to know my man? + Sixteen campaigns I have made with that old warrior. + Besides, I have his horoscope; + We both are born beneath like stars—in short, + [With an air of mystery. + To this belongs its own peculiar aspect, + If therefore thou canst warrant me the rest—— + + ILLO. + There is among them all but this one voice, + You must not lay down the command. I hear + They mean to send a deputation to you. + + WALLENSTEIN. + If I'm in aught to bind myself to them + They too must bind themselves to me. + + ILLO. + Of course. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Their words of honor they must give, their oaths, + Give them in writing to me, promising + Devotion to my service unconditional. + + ILLO. + Why not? + + TERZKY. + Devotion unconditional? + The exception of their duties towards Austria + They'll always place among the premises. + With this reserve—— + + WALLENSTEIN (shaking his head). + All unconditional; + No premises, no reserves. + + ILLO. + A thought has struck me. + Does not Count Terzky give us a set banquet + This evening? + + TERZKY. + Yes; and all the generals + Have been invited. + + ILLO (to WALLENSTEIN). + Say, will you here fully + Commission me to use my own discretion? + I'll gain for you the generals' word of honor, + Even as you wish. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Gain me their signatures! + How you come by them that is your concern. + + ILLO. + And if I bring it to you in black on white, + That all the leaders who are present here + Give themselves up to you, without condition; + Say, will you then—then will you show yourself + In earnest, and with some decisive action + Try your fortune. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Get but the signatures! + + ILLO. + Think what thou dost, thou canst not execute + The emperor's orders, nor reduce thine army, + Nor send the regiments to the Spaniards' aid, + Unless thou wouldst resign thy power forever. + Think on the other hand—thou canst not spurn + The emperor's high commands and solemn orders, + Nor longer temporize, nor seek evasion, + Wouldst thou avoid a rupture with the court. + Resolve then! Wilt thou now by one bold act + Anticipate their ends, or, doubting still, + Await the extremity? + + WALLENSTEIN. + There's time before + The extremity arrives. + + ILLO. + Seize, seize the hour, + Ere it slips from you. Seldom comes the moment + In life, which is indeed sublime and weighty. + To make a great decision possible, + O! many things, all transient and all rapid, + Must meet at once: and, haply, they thus met + May by that confluence be enforced to pause + Time long-enough for wisdom, though too short, + Far, far too short a time for doubt and scruple! + This is that moment. See, our army chieftains, + Our best, our noblest, are assembled round you, + Their king-like leader! On your nod they wait. + The single threads, which here your prosperous fortune + Hath woven together in one potent web + Instinct with destiny, O! let them not + Unravel of themselves. If you permit + These chiefs to separate, so unanimous + Bring you them not a second time together. + 'Tis the high tide that heaves the stranded ship, + And every individual's spirit waxes + In the great stream of multitudes. Behold + They are still here, here still! But soon the war + Bursts them once more asunder, and in small + Particular anxieties and interests + Scatters their spirit, and the sympathy + Of each man with the whole. He who to-day + Forgets himself, forced onward with the stream, + Will become sober, seeing but himself. + Feel only his own weakness, and with speed + Will face about, and march on in the old + High road of duty, the old broad-trodden road, + And seek but to make shelter in good plight. + + WALLENSTEIN. + The time is not yet come. + + TERZKY. + So you say always. + But when will it be time? + + WALLENSTEIN. + When I shall say it. + + ILLO. + You'll wait upon the stars, and on their hours, + Till the earthly hour escapes you. Oh, believe me, + In your own bosom are your destiny's stars. + Confidence in yourself, prompt resolution, + This is your Venus! and the sole malignant, + The only one that harmeth you is doubt. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Thou speakest as thou understandest. How oft + And many a time I've told thee Jupiter, + That lustrous god, was setting at thy birth. + Thy visual power subdues no mysteries; + Mole-eyed thou mayest but burrow in the earth, + Blind as the subterrestrial, who with wan + Lead-colored shine lighted thee into life. + The common, the terrestrial, thou mayest see, + With serviceable cunning knit together, + The nearest with the nearest; and therein + I trust thee and believe thee! but whate'er + Full of mysterious import Nature weaves, + And fashions in the depths—the spirit's ladder, + That from this gross and visible world of dust, + Even to the starry world, with thousand rounds, + Builds itself up; on which the unseen powers + Move up and down on heavenly ministries— + The circles in the circles, that approach + The central sun with ever-narrowing orbit— + These see the glance alone, the unsealed eye, + Of Jupiter's glad children born in lustre. + + [He walks across the chamber, then returns, and standing still, proceeds. + + The heavenly constellations make not merely + The day and nights, summer and spring, not merely + Signify to the husbandman the seasons + Of sowing and of harvest. Human action, + That is the seed, too, of contingencies, + Strewed on the dark land of futurity + In hopes to reconcile the powers of fate + Whence it behoves us to seek out the seed-time, + To watch the stars, select their proper hours, + And trace with searching eye the heavenly houses, + Whether the enemy of growth and thriving + Hide himself not, malignant, in his corner. + Therefore permit me my own time. Meanwhile + Do you your part. As yet I cannot say + What I shall do—only, give way I will not, + Depose me, too, they shall not. On these points + You may rely. + + PAGE (entering). + My lords, the generals. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Let them come in. + + TERZKY. + Shall all the chiefs be present? + + WALLENSTEIN. + 'Twere needless. Both the Piccolomini + Maradas, Butler, Forgoetsch, Deodati, + Karaffa, Isolani—these may come. + + [TERZKY goes out with the PAGE. + + WALLENSTEIN (to ILLO). + Hast thou taken heed that Questenberg was watched? + Had he no means of secret intercourse? + + ILLO. + I have watched him closely—and he spoke with none + But with Octavio. +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="2pb200 (149K)" src="images/2pb200.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0016" id="link2H_4_0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + WALLENSTRIN, TERZKY, ILLO.—To them enter QUESTENBERG, OCTAVIO, + and MAX. PICCOLOMINI, BUTLER, ISOLANI, MARADAS, and three other + Generals. WALLENSTEIN Motions QUESTENBERG, who in consequence + takes the chair directly opposite to him; the others follow, + arranging themselves according to their rank. There reigns a + momentary silence. + + WALLENSTEIN. + I have understood, + 'Tis true, the sum and import, Questenberg, + Of your instructions. I have weighed them well, + And formed my final, absolute resolve; + Yet it seems fitting that the generals + Should hear the will of the emperor from your mouth. + May it please you then to open your commission + Before these noble chieftains? + + QUESTENBERG. + I am ready + To obey you; but will first entreat your highness, + And all these noble chieftains, to consider, + The imperial dignity and sovereign right + Speaks from my mouth, and not my own presumption. + + WALLENSTEIN. + We excuse all preface. + + QUESTENBERG. + When his majesty + The emperor to his courageous armies + Presented in the person of Duke Friedland + A most experienced and renowned commander, + He did it in glad hope and confidence + To give thereby to the fortune of the war + A rapid and auspicious change. The onset + Was favorable to his royal wishes. + Bohemia was delivered from the Saxons, + The Swede's career of conquest checked! These lands + Began to draw breath freely, as Duke Friedland + From all the streams of Germany forced hither + The scattered armies of the enemy; + Hither invoked as round one magic circle + The Rhinegrave, Bernhard, Banner, Oxenstiern, + Yea, and the never-conquered king himself; + Here finally, before the eye of Nuernberg, + The fearful game of battle to decide. + + WALLENSTEIN. + To the point, so please you. + + QUESTENBERG. + A new spirit + At once proclaimed to us the new commander. + No longer strove blind rage with rage more blind; + But in the enlightened field of skill was shown + How fortitude can triumph over boldness, + And scientific art outweary courage. + In vain they tempt him to the fight. He only + Entrenches him still deeper in his hold, + As if to build an everlasting fortress. + At length grown desperate, now, the king resolves + To storm the camp and lead his wasted legions, + Who daily fall by famine and by plague, + To quicker deaths and hunger and disease. + Through lines of barricades behind whose fence + Death lurks within a thousand mouths of fire, + He yet unconquered strives to storm his way. + There was attack, and there resistance, such + As mortal eye had never seen before; + Repulsed at last, the king withdrew his troops + From this so murderous field, and not a foot + Of ground was gained by all that fearful slaughter. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Pray spare us these recitals from gazettes, + Which we ourselves beheld with deepest horror. + + QUESTENBERG. + In Nuernberg's camp the Swedish monarch left + His fame—in Luetzen's plains his life. But who + Stood not astounded, when victorious Friedland + After this day of triumph, this proud day, + Marched toward Bohemia with the speed of flight, + And vanished from the theatre of war? + While the young Weimar hero <a href="#linknote-7" name="linknoteref-7" + id="linknoteref-7">7</a> forced his way + Into Franconia, to the Danube, like + Some delving winter-stream, which, where it rushes, + Makes its own channel; with such sudden speed + He marched, and now at once 'fore Regensburg + Stood to the affright of all good Catholic Christians. + Then did Bavaria's well-deserving prince + Entreat swift aidance in his extreme need; + The emperor sends seven horsemen to Duke Friedland, + Seven horsemen couriers sends he with the entreaty + He superadds his own, and supplicates + Where as the sovereign lord he can command. + In vain his supplication! At this moment + The duke hears only his old hate and grudge, + Barters the general good to gratify + Private revenge—and so falls Regensburg. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Max., to what period of the war alludes he? + My recollection fails me here. + + MAX. + He means + When we were in Silesia. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Ay! is it so! + But what had we to do there? + + MAX. + To beat out + The Swedes and Saxons from the province. + + WALLENSTEIN. + True; + In that description which the minister gave, + I seemed to have forgotten the whole war. + [TO QUESTENBERG. + Well, but proceed a little. + + QUESTENBERG. + We hoped upon the Oder to regain + What on the Danube shamefully was lost. + We looked for deeds of all-astounding grandeur + Upon a theatre of war, on which + A Friedland led in person to the field, + And the famed rival of the great Gustavus + Had but a Thurn and Arnheim to oppose him! + Yet the encounter of their mighty hosts + Served but to feast and entertain each other. + Our country groaned beneath the woes of war, + Yet naught but peace prevailed in Friedland's camp! + + WALLENSTEIN. + Full many a bloody strife is fought in vain, + Because its youthful general needs a victory. + But 'tis the privilege of the old commander + To spare the costs of fighting useless battles + Merely to show that he knows how to conquer. + It would have little helped my fame to boast + Of conquest o'er an Arnheim; but far more + Would my forbearance have availed my country, + Had I succeeded to dissolve the alliance + Existing 'twixt the Saxon and the Swede. + + QUESTENBERG. + But you did not succeed, and so commenced + The fearful strife anew. And here at length, + Beside the river Oder did the duke + Assert his ancient fame. Upon the fields + Of Steinau did the Swedes lay down their arms, + Subdued without a blow. And here, with others, + The righteousness of heaven to his avenger + Delivered that long-practised stirrer-up + Of insurrection, that curse-laden torch + And kindler of this war, Matthias Thurn. + But he had fallen into magnanimous hands + Instead of punishment he found reward, + And with rich presents did the duke dismiss + The arch-foe of his emperor. + + WALLENSTEIN (laughs). + I know, + I know you had already in Vienna + Your windows and your balconies forestalled + To see him on the executioner's cart. + I might have lost the battle, lost it too + With infamy, and still retained your graces— + But, to have cheated them of a spectacle, + Oh! that the good folks of Vienna never, + No, never can forgive me! + + QUESTENBERG. + So Silesia + Was freed, and all things loudly called the duke + Into Bavaria, now pressed hard on all sides. + And he did put his troops in motion: slowly, + Quite at his ease, and by the longest road + He traverses Bohemia; but ere ever + He hath once seen the enemy, faces round, + Breaks up the march, and takes to winter-quarters. + + WALLENSTEIN. + The troops were pitiably destitute + Of every necessary, every comfort, + The winter came. What thinks his majesty + His troops are made of? Aren't we men; subjected + Like other men to wet, and cold, and all + The circumstances of necessity? + Oh, miserable lot of the poor soldier! + Wherever he comes in all flee before him, + And when he goes away the general curse + Follows him on his route. All must be seized. + Nothing is given him. And compelled to seize + From every man he's every man's abhorrence. + Behold, here stand my generals. Karaffa! + Count Deodati! Butler! Tell this man + How long the soldier's pay is in arrears. + + BUTLER. + Already a full year. + + WALLENSTEIN. + And 'tis the hire + That constitutes the hireling's name and duties, + The soldier's pay is the soldier's covenant. <a href="#linknote-8" + name="linknoteref-8" id="linknoteref-8">8</a> + + QUESTENBERG. + Ah! this is a far other tone from that + In which the duke spoke eight, nine years ago. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Yes! 'tis my fault, I know it: I myself + Have spoilt the emperor by indulging him. + Nine years ago, during the Danish war, + I raised him up a force, a mighty force, + Forty or fifty thousand men, that cost him + Of his own purse no doit. Through Saxony + The fury goddess of the war marched on, + E'en to the surf-rocks of the Baltic, bearing + The terrors of his name. That was a time! + In the whole imperial realm no name like mine + Honored with festival and celebration— + And Albrecht Wallenstein, it was the title + Of the third jewel in his crown! + But at the Diet, when the princes met + At Regensburg, there, there the whole broke out, + There 'twas laid open, there it was made known + Out of what money-bag I had paid the host, + And what were now my thanks, what had I now + That I, a faithful servant of the sovereign, + Had loaded on myself the people's curses, + And let the princes of the empire pay + The expenses of this war that aggrandizes + The emperor alone. What thanks had I? + What? I was offered up to their complaint + Dismissed, degraded! + + QUESTENBERG. + But your highness knows + What little freedom he possessed of action + In that disastrous Diet. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Death and hell! + I had that which could have procured him freedom + No! since 'twas proved so inauspicious to me + To serve the emperor at the empire's cost, + I have been taught far other trains of thinking + Of the empire and the Diet of the empire. + From the emperor, doubtless, I received this staff, + But now I hold it as the empire's general,— + For the common weal, the universal interest, + And no more for that one man's aggrandizement! + But to the point. What is it that's desired of me? + + QUESTENBERG. + First, his imperial majesty hath willed + That without pretexts of delay the army + Evacuate Bohemia. + + WALLENSTEIN. + In this season? + And to what quarter wills the emperor + That we direct our course? + + QUESTENBERG. + To the enemy. + His majesty resolves, that Regensburg + Be purified from the enemy ere Easter, + That Lutheranism may be no longer preached + In that cathedral, nor heretical + Defilement desecrate the celebration + Of that pure festival. + + WALLENSTEIN. + My generals, + Can this be realized? + + ILLO. + 'Tis not possible. + + BUTLER. + It can't be realized. + + QUESTENBERG. + The emperor + Already hath commanded Colonel Suys + To advance towards Bavaria. + + WALLENSTEIN. + What did Suys? + + QUESTENBERG. + That which his duty prompted. He advanced. + + WALLENSTEIN. + What! he advanced? And I, his general, + Had given him orders, peremptory orders + Not to desert his station! Stands it thus + With my authority? Is this the obedience + Due to my office, which being thrown aside, + No war can be conducted? Chieftains, speak + You be the judges, generals. What deserves + That officer who, of his oath neglectful, + Is guilty of contempt of orders? + + ILLO. + Death. + + WALLENSTEIN (raising his voice, as all but ILLO had remained silent + and seemingly scrupulous). + Count Piccolomini! what has he deserved? + + MAX. PICCOLOMINI (after a long pause). + According to the letter of the law, + Death. + + ISOLANI. + Death. + + BUTLER. + Death, by the laws of war. + + [QUESTENBERG rises from his seat, WALLENSTEIN follows, all + the rest rise. + + WALLENSTEIN. + To this the law condemns him, and not I. + And if I show him favor, 'twill arise + From the reverence that I owe my emperor. + + QUESTENBERG. + If so, I can say nothing further—here! + + WALLENSTEIN. + I accepted the command but on conditions! + And this the first, that to the diminution + Of my authority no human being, + Not even the emperor's self, should be entitled + To do aught, or to say aught, with the army. + If I stand warranter of the event, + Placing my honor and my head in pledge, + Needs must I have full mastery in all + The means thereto. What rendered this Gustavus + Resistless, and unconquered upon earth? + This—that he was the monarch in his army! + A monarch, one who is indeed a monarch, + Was never yet subdued but by his equal. + But to the point! The best is yet to come, + Attend now, generals! + + QUESTENBERG. + The Prince Cardinal + Begins his route at the approach of spring + From the Milanese; and leads a Spanish army + Through Germany into the Netherlands. + That he may march secure and unimpeded, + 'Tis the emperor's will you grant him a detachment + Of eight horse-regiments from the army here. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Yes, yes! I understand! Eight regiments! Well, + Right well concerted, Father Lanormain! + Eight thousand horse! Yes, yes! 'tis as it should be + I see it coming. + + QUESTENBERG. + There is nothing coming. + All stands in front: the counsel of state-prudence, + The dictate of necessity! + + WALLENSTEIN. + What then? + What, my lord envoy? May I not be suffered + To understand that folks are tired of seeing + The sword's hilt in my grasp, and that your court + Snatch eagerly at this pretence, and use + The Spanish title, and drain off my forces, + To lead into the empire a new army + Unsubjected to my control? To throw me + Plumply aside,—I am still too powerful for you + To venture that. My stipulation runs, + That all the imperial forces shall obey me + Where'er the German is the native language. + Of Spanish troops and of prince cardinals, + That take their route as visitors, through the empire, + There stands no syllable in my stipulation. + No syllable! And so the politic court + Steals in on tiptoe, and creeps round behind it; + First makes me weaker, then to be dispensed with, + Till it dares strike at length a bolder blow, + And make short work with me. + What need of all these crooked ways, lord envoy? + Straightforward, man! his compact with me pinches + The emperor. He would that I moved off! + Well! I will gratify him! + [Here there commences an agitation among the generals, + which increases continually. + It grieves me for my noble officers' sakes; + I see not yet by what means they will come at + The moneys they have advanced, or how obtain + The recompense their services demand. + Still a new leader brings new claimants forward, + And prior merit superannuates quickly. + There serve here many foreigners in the army, + And were the man in all else brave and gallant, + I was not wont to make nice scrutiny + After his pedigree or catechism. + This will be otherwise i' the time to come. + Well; me no longer it concerns. + [He seats himself. + Forbid it, Heaven, that it should come to this! + Our troops will swell in dreadful fermentation— + The emperor is abused—it cannot be. + + ISOLANI. + It cannot be; all goes to instant wreck. + + WALLENSTEIN. + Thou hast said truly, faithful Isolani! + What we with toil and foresight have built up + Will go to wreck—all go to instant wreck. + What then? Another chieftain is soon found, + Another army likewise (who dares doubt it?) + Will flock from all sides to the emperor, + At the first beat of his recruiting drum. + + [During this speech, ISOLANI, TERZKY, ILLO, and MARADAS talk + confusedly with great agitation. + + MAX. PICCOLOMINI (busily and passionately going from one to another, + and soothing them). + Hear, my commander' Hear me, generals! + Let me conjure you, duke! Determine nothing, + Till we have met and represented to you + Our joint remonstrances! Nay, calmer! Friends! + I hope all may yet be set right again. + + TERZKY. + Away! let us away! in the antechamber + Find we the others. + [They go. + + BUTLER (to QUESTENBERG). + If good counsel gain + Due audience from your wisdom, my lord envoy, + You will be cautious how you show yourself + In public for some hours to come—or hardly + Will that gold key protect you from maltreatment. + + [Commotions heard from without. + + WALLENSTEIN. + A salutary counsel—Thou, Octavio! + Wilt answer for the safety of our guest. + Farewell, von Questenberg! + [QUESTENBURG is about to speak. + Nay, not a word. + Not one word more of that detested subject! + You have performed your duty. We know now + To separate the office from the man. + + [AS QUESTENBERG is going off with OCTAVIO, GOETZ, TIEFENBACH, + KOLATTO, press in, several other generals following them. + + GOETZ. + Where's he who means to rob us of our general? + + TIEFENBACH (at the same time). + What are we forced to bear? That thou wilt leave us? + + KOLATTO (at the same time). + We will live with thee, we will die with thee. + + WALLENSTEIN (with stateliness, and pointing to ILLO). + There! the field-marshal knows our will. + [Exit. + + [While all are going off the stage, the curtain drops. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0017" id="link2H_4_0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT III. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0018" id="link2H_4_0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A Small Chamber. + + ILLO and TERZKY. + + TERZKY. + Now for this evening's business! How intend you + To manage with the generals at the banquet? + + ILLO. + Attend! We frame a formal declaration, + Wherein we to the duke consign ourselves + Collectively, to be and to remain + His, both with life and limb, and not to spare + The last drop of our blood for him, provided, + So doing we infringe no oath or duty + We may be under to the emperor. Mark! + This reservation we expressly make + In a particular clause, and save the conscience. + Now hear! this formula so framed and worded + Will be presented to them for perusal + Before the banquet. No one will find in it + Cause of offence or scruple. Hear now further! + After the feast, when now the vapering wine + Opens the heart, and shuts the eyes, we let + A counterfeited paper, in the which + This one particular clause has been left out, + Go round for signatures. + + TERZKY. + How! think you then + That they'll believe themselves bound by an oath, + Which we have tricked them into by a juggle? + + ILLO. + We shall have caught and caged them! Let them then + Beat their wings bare against the wires, and rave + Loud as they may against our treachery; + At court their signatures will be believed + Far more than their most holy affirmations. + Traitors they are, and must be; therefore wisely + Will make a virtue of necessity. + + TERZKY. + Well, well, it shall content me: let but something + Be done, let only some decisive blow + Set us in motion. + + ILLO. + Besides, 'tis of subordinate importance + How, or how far, we may thereby propel + The generals. 'Tis enough that we persuade + The duke that they are his. Let him but act + In his determined mood, as if he had them, + And he will have them. Where he plunges in, + He makes a whirlpool, and all stream down to it. + + TERZKY. + His policy is such a labyrinth, + That many a time when I have thought myself + Close at his side, he's gone at once, and left me + Ignorant of the ground where I was standing. + He lends the enemy his ear, permits me + To write to them, to Arnheim; to Sesina + Himself comes forward blank and undisguised; + Talks with us by the hour about his plans, + And when I think I have him—off at once— + He has slipped from me, and appears as if + He had no scheme, but to retain his place. + + ILLO. + He give up his old plans! I'll tell you, friend! + His soul is occupied with nothing else, + Even in his sleep—they are his thoughts, his dreams, + That day by day he questions for this purpose + The motions of the planets—— + + TERZKY. + Ah! you know + This night, that is now coming, he with Seni, + Shuts himself up in the astrological tower + To make joint observations—for I hear + It is to be a night of weight and crisis; + And something great, and of long expectation, + Takes place in heaven. + + ILLO. + O that it might take place + On earth! The generals are full of zeal, + And would with ease be led to anything + Rather than lose their chief. Observe, too, that + We have at last a fair excuse before us + To form a close alliance 'gainst the court, + Yet innocent its title, bearing simply + That we support him only in command. + But in the ardor of pursuit thou knowest + Men soon forget the goal from which they started. + The object I've in view is that the prince + Shall either find them, or believe them ready + For every hazard. Opportunity + Will tempt him on. Be the great step once taken, + Which at Vienna's court can ne'er be pardoned, + The force of circumstances will lead him onward + The farther still and farther. 'Tis the choice + That makes him undecisive—come but need, + And all his powers and wisdom will come with it. + + TERZKY. + 'Tis this alone the enemy awaits + To change their chief and join their force with ours. + + ILLO. + Come! be we bold and make despatch. The work + In this next day or two must thrive and grow + More than it has for years. And let but only + Things first turn up auspicious here below— + Mark what I say—the right stars, too, will show themselves. + Come to the generals. All is in the glow, + And must be beaten while 'tis malleable. + + TERZKY. + Do you go thither, Illo? I must stay + And wait here for the Countess Terzky. Know + That we, too, are not idle. Break one string, + A second is in readiness. + + ILLO. + Yes! yes! + I saw your lady smile with such sly meaning. + What's in the wind? + + TERZKY. + A secret. Hush! she comes. + + [Exit ILLO. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0019" id="link2H_4_0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The COUNTESS steps out from a closet. + + COUNT and COUNTESS TERZKY. + + TERZKY. + Well—is she coming? I can keep him back + No longer. + + COUNTESS. + She will be here instantly, + You only send him. + + TERZKY. + I am not quite certain, + I must confess it, countess, whether or not + We are earning the duke's thanks hereby. You know + No ray has broke out from him on this point. + You have o'erruled me, and yourself know best + How far you dare proceed. + + COUNTESS. + I take it on me. + [Talking to herself while she is advancing. + Here's no heed of full powers and commissions; + My cloudy duke! we understand each other— + And without words. What could I not unriddle, + Wherefore the daughter should be sent for hither, + Why first he, and no other should be chosen + To fetch her hither? This sham of betrothing her + To a bridegroom <a href="#linknote-9" name="linknoteref-9" id="linknoteref-9">9</a>, whom no one knows—No! no! + This may blind others! I see through thee, brother! + But it beseems thee not to draw a card + At such a game. Not yet! It all remains + Mutely delivered up to my finessing. + Well—thou shalt not have been deceived, Duke Friedland, + In her who is thy sister. + + SERVANT (enters). + The commanders! + [Exit. + + TERZKY (to the COUNTESS). + Take care you heat his fancy and affections— + Possess him with a reverie, and send him, + Absent and dreaming to the banquet; that + He may not boggle at the signature. + + COUNTESS. + Take care of your guests! Go, send him hither. + + TERZKY. + All rests upon his undersigning. + + COUNTESS (interrupting him). + Go to your guests! Go—— + + ILLO (comes back). + Where art staying, Terzky? + The house is full, and all expecting you. + + TERZKY. + Instantly! instantly! + [To the COUNTESS. + And let him not + Stay here too long. It might awake suspicion + In the old man—— + + COUNTESS. + A truce with your precautions! + + [Exeunt TERZKY and ILLO. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0020" id="link2H_4_0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + COUNTESS, MAX. PICCOLOMINI. + + MAX. (peeping in on the stage slyly). + Aunt Terzky! may I venture? + [Advances to the middle of the stage, and looks around + him with uneasiness. + She's not here! + Where is she? + + COUNTESS. + Look but somewhat narrowly + In yonder corner, lest perhaps she lie + Concealed behind that screen. + + MAX. + There lie her gloves! + + [Snatches at them, but the COUNTESS takes them herself. + + You unkind lady! You refuse me this, + You make it an amusement to torment me. + + COUNTESS. + And this the thanks you give me for my trouble? + + MAX. + O, if you felt the oppression at my heart! + Since we've been here, so to constrain myself + With such poor stealth to hazard words and glances. + These, these are not my habits! + + COUNTESS. + You have still + Many new habits to acquire, young friend! + But on this proof of your obedient temper + I must continue to insist; and only + On this condition can I play the agent + For your concerns. + + MAX. + But wherefore comes she not? + Where is she? + + COUNTESS. + Into my hands you must place it + Whole and entire. Whom could you find, indeed, + More zealously affected to your interest? + No soul on earth must know it—not your father; + He must not, above all. + + MAX. + Alas! what danger? + Here is no face on which I might concentre + All the enraptured soul stirs up within me. + O lady! tell me, is all changed around me? + Or is it only I? + I find myself, + As among strangers! Not a trace is left + Of all my former wishes, former joys. + Where has it vanished to? There was a time + When even, methought, with such a world as this, + I was not discontented. Now how flat! + How stale! No life, no bloom, no flavor in it! + My comrades are intolerable to me. + My father—even to him I can say nothing. + My arms, my military duties—O! + They are such wearying toys! + + COUNTESS. + But gentle friend! + I must entreat it of your condescension, + You would be pleased to sink your eye, and favor + With one short glance or two this poor stale world, + Where even now much, and of much moment, + Is on the eve of its completion. + + MAX. + Something, + I can't but know is going forward round me. + I see it gathering, crowding, driving on, + In wild uncustomary movements. Well, + In due time, doubtless, it will reach even me. + Where think you I have been, dear lady? Nay, + No raillery. The turmoil of the camp, + The spring-tide of acquaintance rolling in, + The pointless jest, the empty conversation, + Oppressed and stifled me. I gasped for air— + I could not breathe—I was constrained to fly, + To seek a silence out for my full heart; + And a pure spot wherein to feel my happiness. + No smiling, countess! In the church was I. + There is a cloister here "To the heaven's gate," <a href="#linknote-10" + name="linknoteref-10" id="linknoteref-10">10</a> + Thither I went, there found myself alone. + Over the altar hung a holy mother; + A wretched painting 'twas, yet 'twas the friend + That I was seeking in this moment. Ah, + How oft have I beheld that glorious form + In splendor, 'mid ecstatic worshippers; + Yet, still it moved me not! and now at once + Was my devotion cloudless as my love. + + COUNTESS. + Enjoy your fortune and felicity! + Forget the world around you. Meantime, friendship + Shall keep strict vigils for you, anxious, active. + Only be manageable when that friendship + Points you the road to full accomplishment. + + MAX. + But where abides she then? Oh, golden time + Of travel, when each morning sun united + And but the coming night divided us; + Then ran no sand, then struck no hour for us, + And time, in our excess of happiness, + Seemed on its course eternal to stand still. + Oh, he hath fallen from out his heaven of bliss + Who can descend to count the changing hours, + No clock strikes ever for the happy! + + COUNTESS. + How long is it since you declared your passion? + + MAX. + This morning did I hazard the first word. + + COUNTESS. + This morning the first time in twenty days? + + MAX. + 'Twas at that hunting-castle, betwixt here + And Nepomuck, where you had joined us, and + That was the last relay of the whole journey; + In a balcony we were standing mute, + And gazing out upon the dreary field + Before us the dragoons were riding onward, + The safeguard which the duke had sent us—heavy; + The inquietude of parting lay upon me, + And trembling ventured at length these words: + This all reminds me, noble maiden, that + To-day I must take leave of my good fortune. + A few hours more, and you will find a father, + Will see yourself surrounded by new friends, + And I henceforth shall be but as a stranger, + Lost in the many—"Speak with my Aunt Terzky!" + With hurrying voice she interrupted me. + She faltered. I beheld a glowing red + Possess her beautiful cheeks, and from the ground + Raised slowly up her eye met mine—no longer + Did I control myself. + [The Princess THEKLA appears at the door, and remains standing, + observed by the COUNTESS, but not by PICCOLOMINI. + With instant boldness + I caught her in my arms, my lips touched hers; + There was a rustling in the room close by; + It parted us—'Twas you. What since has happened + You know. + + COUNTESS (after a pause, with a stolen glance at THEKLA). + And is it your excess of modesty + Or are you so incurious, that you do not + Ask me too of my secret? + + MAX. + Of your secret? + + COUNTESS. + Why, yes! When in the instant after you + I stepped into the room, and found my niece there; + What she in this first moment of the heart + Taken with surprise—— + + MAX. (with eagerness). + Well? +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0021" id="link2H_4_0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THEKLA (hurries forward), COUNTESS, MAX. PICCOLOMINI. + + THEKLA (to the COUNTESS). + Spare yourself the trouble: + That hears he better from myself. + + MAX. (stepping backward). + My princess! + What have you let her hear me say, Aunt Terzky? + + THEKLA (to the COUNTESS). + Has he been here long? + + COUNTESS. + Yes; and soon must go, + Where have you stayed so long? + + THEKLA. + Alas! my mother, + Wept so again! and I—I see her suffer, + Yet cannot keep myself from being happy. + + MAX. + Now once again I have courage to look on you. + To-day at noon I could not. + The dazzle of the jewels that played round you + Hid the beloved from me. + + THEKLA. + Then you saw me + With your eye only—and not with your heart? + + MAX. + This morning, when I found you in the circle + Of all your kindred, in your father's arms, + Beheld myself an alien in this circle, + O! what an impulse felt I in that moment + To fall upon his neck, to call him father! + But his stern eye o'erpowered the swelling passion, + It dared not but be silent. And those brilliants, + That like a crown of stars enwreathed your brows, + They scared me too! O wherefore, wherefore should be + At the first meeting spread as 'twere the ban + Of excommunication round you,—wherefore + Dress up the angel as for sacrifice. + And cast upon the light and joyous heart + The mournful burden of his station? Fitly + May love dare woo for love; but such a splendor + Might none but monarchs venture to approach. + + THEKLA. + Hush! not a word more of this mummery; + You see how soon the burden is thrown off. + [To the COUNTESS. + He is not in spirits. Wherefore is he not? + 'Tis you, aunt, that have made him all so gloomy! + He had quite another nature on the journey— + So calm, so bright, so joyous eloquent. + [To MAX. + It was my wish to see you always so, + And never otherwise! + + MAX. + You find yourself + In your great father's arms, beloved lady! + All in a new world, which does homage to you, + And which, were't only by its novelty, + Delights your eye. + + THEKLA. + Yes; I confess to you + That many things delight me here: this camp, + This motley stage of warriors, which renews + So manifold the image of my fancy, + And binds to life, binds to reality, + What hitherto had but been present to me + As a sweet dream! + + MAX. + Alas! not so to me. + It makes a dream of my reality. + Upon some island in the ethereal heights + I've lived for these last days. This mass of men + Forces me down to earth. It is a bridge + That, reconducting to my former life, + Divides me and my heaven. + + THEKLA. + The game of life + Looks cheerful, when one carries in one's heart + The unalienable treasure. 'Tis a game, + Which, having once reviewed, I turn more joyous + Back to my deeper and appropriate bliss. + [Breaking off, and in a sportive tone. + In this short time that I've been present here. + What new unheard-of things have I not seen; + And yet they all must give place to the wond + Which this mysterious castle guards. + + COUNTESS (recollecting). + And what + Can this be then? Methought I was acquainted + With all the dusky corners of this house. + + THEKLA (smiling). + Ay, but the road thereto is watched by spirits, + Two griffins still stand sentry at the door. + + COUNTESS (laughs). + The astrological tower! How happens it + That this same sanctuary, whose access + Is to all others so impracticable, + Opens before you even at your approach? + + THEKLA. + A dwarfish old man with a friendly face + And snow-white hairs, whose gracious services + Were mine at first sight, opened me the doors. + + MAX. + That is the duke's astrologer, old Seni. + + THEKLA. + He questioned me on many points; for instance, + When I was born, what month, and on what day, + Whether by day or in the night. + + COUNTESS. + He wished + To erect a figure for your horoscope. + + THEKLA. + My hand too he examined, shook his head + With much sad meaning, and the lines, methought, + Did not square over truly with his wishes. + + COUNTESS. + Well, princess, and what found you in this tower? + My highest privilege has been to snatch + A side-glance, and away! + + THEKLA. + It was a strange + Sensation that came o'er me, when at first + From the broad sunshine I stepped in; and now + The narrowing line of daylight, that ran after + The closing door, was gone; and all about me + 'Twas pale and dusky night, with many shadows + Fantastically cast. Here six or seven + Colossal statues, and all kings, stood round me + In a half-circle. Each one in his hand + A sceptre bore, and on his head a star; + And in the tower no other light was there + But from these stars all seemed to come from them. + "These are the planets," said that low old man, + "They govern worldly fates, and for that cause + Are imaged here as kings. He farthest from you, + Spiteful and cold, an old man melancholy, + With bent and yellow forehead, he is Saturn. + He opposite, the king with the red light, + An armed man for the battle, that is Mars; + And both these bring but little luck to man." + But at his side a lovely lady stood, + The star upon her head was soft and bright, + Oh, that was Venus, the bright star of joy. + And the left hand, lo! Mercury, with wings + Quite in the middle glittered silver bright. + A cheerful man, and with a monarch's mien; + And this was Jupiter, my father's star + And at his side I saw the Sun and Moon. + + MAX. + Oh, never rudely will I blame his faith + In the might of stars and angels. 'Tis not merely + The human being's pride that peoples space + With life and mystical predominance; + Since likewise for the stricken heart of love + This visible nature, and this common world, + Is all too narrow; yea, a deeper import + Lurks in the legend told my infant years + Than lies upon that truth, we live to learn. + For fable is love's world, his home, his birth-place; + Delightedly dwells he among fays and talismans, + And spirits; and delightedly believes + Divinities, being himself divine + The intelligible forms of ancient poets, + The fair humanities of old religion, + The power, the beauty, and the majesty, + That had her haunts in dale, or piny mountain, + Or forest by slow stream, or pebbly spring, + Or chasms, and watery depths, all these have vanished. + They live no longer in the faith of reason! + But still the heart doth need a language, still + Doth the old instinct bring back the old names; + And to yon starry world they now are gone, + Spirits or gods, that used to share this earth + With man as with their friend <a href="#linknote-11" name="linknoteref-11" + id="linknoteref-11">11</a>, and to the lover + Yonder they move, from yonder visible sky + Shoot influence down: and even at this day + 'This Jupiter who brings whate'er is great, + And Venus who brings everything that's fair! + + THEKLA. + And if this be the science of the stars, + I, too, with glad and zealous industry, + Will learn acquaintance with this cheerful faith. + It is a gentle and affectionate thought, + That in immeasurable heights above us, + At our first birth, the wreath of love was woven, + With sparkling stars for flowers. + + COUNTESS. + Not only roses + And thorns too hath the heaven, and well for you + Leave they your wreath of love inviolate: + What Venus twined, the bearer of glad fortune, + The sullen orb of Mars soon tears to pieces. + + MAX. + Soon will this gloomy empire reach its close. + Blest be the general's zeal: into the laurel + Will he inweave the olive-branch, presenting + Peace to the shouting nations. Then no wish + Will have remained for his great heart. Enough + Has he performed for glory, and can now + Live for himself and his. To his domains will + He retire; he has a stately seat + Of fairest view at Gitschin, Reichenberg, + And Friedland Castle, both lie pleasantly; + Even to the foot of the huge mountains here + Stretches the chase and covers of his forests: + His ruling passion to create the splendid + He can indulge without restraint; can give + A princely patronage to every art, + And to all worth a sovereign's protection. + Can build, can plant, can watch the starry courses—— + + COUNTESS. + Yet I would have you look, and look again, + Before you lay aside your arms, young friend! + A gentle bride, as she is, is well worth it, + That you should woo and win her with the sword. + + MAX. + Oh, that the sword could win her! + + COUNTESS. + What was that? + Did you hear nothing? Seemed as if I heard + Tumult and larum in the banquet-room. + + [Exit COUNTESS. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0022" id="link2H_4_0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THEKLA and MAX. PICCOLOMINI. + + THEKLA (as soon as the COUNTESS is out of sight, in a quick, + low voice to PICCOLOMINI). + Don't trust them! They are false! + + MAX. + Impossible! + + THEKLA. + Trust no one here but me. I saw at once, + They had a purpose. + + MAX. + Purpose! but what purpose? + And how can we be instrumental to it? + + THEKLA. + I know no more than you; but yet believe me + There's some design in this; to make us happy, + To realize our union—trust me, love! + They but pretend to wish it. + + MAX. + But these Terzkys— + Why use we them at all? Why not your mother? + Excellent creature! She deserves from us + A full and filial confidence. + + THEKLA. + She doth love you, + Doth rate you high before all others—but— + But such a secret—she would never have + The courage to conceal it from my father. + For her own peace of mind we must preserve it + A secret from her too. + + MAX. + Why any secret? + I love not secrets. Mark what I will do. + I'll throw me at your father's feet—let him + Decide upon my fortune! He is true, + He wears no mask—he hates all crooked ways— + He is so good, so noble! + + THEKLA. (falls on his neck). + That are you! + + MAX. + You knew him only from this morn! But I + Have lived ten years already in his presence; + And who knows whether in this very moment + He is not merely waiting for us both + To own our loves in order to unite us? + You are silent! + You look at me with such a hopelessness! + What have you to object against your father? + + THEKLA. + I? Nothing. Only he's so occupied— + He has no leisure time to think about + The happiness of us two. + [Taking his hand tenderly. + Follow me + Let us not place too great a faith in men. + These Terzkys—we will still be grateful to them + For every kindness, but not trust them further + Than they deserve;—and in all else rely + On our own hearts! + + MAX. + O! shall we e'er be happy? + + THEKLA. + Are we not happy now? Art thou not mine? + Am I not thine? There lives within my soul + A lofty courage—'tis love gives it me! + I ought to be less open—ought to hide + My heart more from thee—so decorum dictates: + But where in this place couldst thou seek for truth, + If in my mouth thou didst not find it? + We now have met, then let us hold each other + Clasped in a lasting and a firm embrace. + Believe me this was more than their intent. + Then be our loves like some blest relic kept + Within the deep recesses of the heart. + From heaven alone the love has been bestowed, + To heaven alone our gratitude is due; + It can work wonders for us still. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0023" id="link2H_4_0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + To them enters the COUNTESS TERZKY. + + COUNTESS (in a pressing manner). + Come, come! + My husband sends me for you. It is now + The latest moment. + [They not appearing to attend to what she says, + she steps between them. + Part you! + + THEKLA. + Oh, not yet! + It has been scarce a moment. + + COUNTESS. + Ay! Then time + Flies swiftly with your highness, princess niece! + + MAX. + There is no hurry, aunt. + + COUNTESS. + Away! Away! + The folks begin to miss you. Twice already + His father has asked for him. + + THEKLA. + Ha! His father! + COUNTESS. + You understand that, niece! + + THEKLA. + Why needs he + To go at all to that society? + 'Tis not his proper company. They may + Be worthy men, but he's too young for them; + In brief, he suits not such society. + + COUNTESS. + You mean, you'd rather keep him wholly here? + + THEKLA (with energy). + Yes! You have hit it aunt! That is my meaning, + Leave him here wholly! Tell the company—— + + COUNTESS. + What! have you lost your senses, niece? + Count, you remember the conditions. Come! + + MAX (to THEKLA). + Lady, I must obey. Fairwell, dear lady! + [THEKLA turns away from him with a quick motion. + What say you then, dear lady? + + THEKLA (without looking at him). + Nothing. Go! + + MAX. + Can I when you are angry—— + + [He draws up to her, their eyes meet, she stands silent a moment, + then throws herself into his arms; he presses her fast to his heart. + + COUNTESS. + Off! Heavens! if any one should come! + Hark! What's that noise! It comes this way. Off! + + [MAX. tears himself away out of her arms and goes. The COUNTESS + accompanies him. THEKLA follows him with her eyes at first, walks + restlessly across the room, then stops, and remains standing, lost + in thought. A guitar lies on the table, she seizes it as by a + sudden emotion, and after she has played awhile an irregular and + melancholy symphony, she falls gradually into the music and sings. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0024" id="link2H_4_0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THEKLA (plays and sings). + + The cloud doth gather, the greenwood roar, + The damsel paces along the shore; + The billows, they tumble with might, with might; + And she flings out her voice to the darksome night; + Her bosom is swelling with sorrow; + The world it is empty, the heart will die, + There's nothing to wish for beneath the sky + Thou Holy One, call thy child away! + I've lived and loved, and that was to-day; + Make ready my grave-clothes to-morrow. <a href="#linknote-12" + name="linknoteref-12" id="linknoteref-12">12</a> +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0025" id="link2H_4_0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + COUNTESS (returns), THEKLA. + + COUNTESS. + Fie, lady niece! to throw yourself upon him + Like a poor gift to one who cares not for it, + And so must be flung after him! For you, + Duke Friedland's only child, I should have thought + It had been more beseeming to have shown yourself + More chary of your person. + + THEKLA (rising). + And what mean you? + + DUCHESS. + I mean, niece, that you should not have forgotten + Who you are, and who he is. But perchance + That never once occurred to you. + + THEKLA. + What then? + + COUNTESS. + That you're the daughter of the Prince Duke Friedland. + + THEKLA. + Well, and what farther? + + DUCHESS. + What? A pretty question! + + THEKLA. + He was born that which we have but become. + He's of an ancient Lombard family, + Son of a reigning princess. + + COUNTESS. + Are you dreaming? + Talking in sleep? An excellent jest, forsooth! + We shall no doubt right courteously entreat him + To honor with his hand the richest heiress + In Europe. + + THEKLA. + That will not be necessary. + + COUNTESS. + Methinks 'twere well, though, not to run the hazard. + + THEHLA. + His father loves him; Count Octavio + Will interpose no difficulty—— + + COUNTESS. + His! + His father! His! But yours, niece, what of yours? + + THERLA. + Why, I begin to think you fear his father, + So anxiously you hide it from the man! + His father, his, I mean. + + COUNTESS (looks at her as scrutinizing). + Niece, you are false. + + THEBLA. + Are you then wounded? O, be friends with me! + + COUNTESS. + You hold your game for won already. Do not + Triumph too soon! + + THEKLA (interrupting her, and attempting to soothe her). + Nay now, be friends with me. + + COUNTESS. + It is not yet so far gone. + + THEKLA. + I believe you. + + COUNTESS. + Did you suppose your father had laid out + His most important life in toils of war, + Denied himself each quiet earthly bliss, + Had banished slumbers from his tent, devoted + His noble head to care, and for this only, + To make a happier pair of you? At length + To draw you from your convent, and conduct + In easy triumph to your arms the man + That chanced to please your eyes! All this, methinks, + He might have purchased at a cheaper rate. + + THEKLA. + That which he did not plant for me might yet + Bear me fair fruitage of its own accord. + And if my friendly and affectionate fate, + Out of his fearful and enormous being, + Will but prepare the joys of life for me—— + + COUNTESS. + Thou seest it with a lovelorn maiden's eyes, + Cast thine eye round, bethink thee who thou art;— + Into no house of joyance hast thou stepped, + For no espousals dost thou find the walls + Decked out, no guests the nuptial garland wearing; + Here is no splendor but of arms. Or thinkest thou + That all these thousands are here congregated + To lead up the long dances at thy wedding! + Thou see'st thy father's forehead full of thought, + Thy mother's eye in tears: upon the balance + Lies the great destiny of all our house. + Leave now the puny wish, the girlish feeling; + Oh, thrust it far behind thee! Give thou proof + Thou'rt the daughter of the mighty—his + Who where he moves creates the wonderful. + Not to herself the woman must belong, + Annexed and bound to alien destinies. + But she performs the best part, she the wisest, + Who can transmute the alien into self, + Meet and disarm necessity by choice; + And what must be, take freely to her heart, + And bear and foster it with mother's love. + + THEKLA. + Such ever was my lesson in the convent. + I had no loves, no wishes, knew myself + Only as his—his daughter—his, the mighty! + His fame, the echo of whose blast drove to me + From the far distance, weakened in my soul + No other thought than this—I am appointed + To offer myself up in passiveness to him. + + COUNTESS. + That is thy fate. Mould thou thy wishes to it— + I and thy mother gave thee the example. + + THEKLA. + My fate hath shown me him, to whom behoves it + That I should offer up myself. In gladness + Him will I follow. + + COUNTESS. + Not thy fate hath shown him! + Thy heart, say rather—'twas thy heart, my child! + + THEKLA. + Faith hath no voice but the heart's impulses. + I am all his! His present—his alone. + Is this new life, which lives in me? He hath + A right to his own creature. What was I + Ere his fair love infused a soul into me? + + COUNTESS. + Thou wouldst oppose thy father, then, should he + Have otherwise determined with thy person? + [THEKLA remains silent. The COUNTESS continues. + Thou meanest to force him to thy liking? Child, + His name is Friedland. + + THEKLA. + My name too is Friedland. + He shall have found a genuine daughter in me. + + COUNTESS. + What! he has vanquished all impediment, + And in the wilful mood of his own daughter + Shall a new struggle rise for him? Child! child! + As yet thou hast seen thy father's smiles alone; + The eye of his rage thou hast not seen. Dear child, + I will not frighten thee. To that extreme, + I trust it ne'er shall come. His will is yet + Unknown to me; 'tis possible his aims + May have the same direction as thy wish. + But this can never, never be his will, + That thou, the daughter of his haughty fortunes, + Shouldest e'er demean thee as a lovesick maiden + And like some poor cost-nothing, fling thyself + Toward the man, who, if that high prize ever + Be destined to await him, yet with sacrifices + The highest love can bring, must pay for it. + + [Exit COUNTESS. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0026" id="link2H_4_0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE IX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THEKLA (who during the last speech had been standing evidently + lost in her reflections). + I thank thee for the hint. It turns + My sad presentiment to certainty. + And it is so! Not one friend have we here, + Not one true heart! we've nothing but ourselves! + Oh, she said rightly—no auspicious signs + Beam on this covenant of our affections. + This is no theatre where hope abides + The dull thick noise of war alone stirs here, + And love himself, as he were armed in steel, + Steps forth, and girds him for the strife of death. + [Music from the banquet-room is heard. + There's a dark spirit walking in our house. + And swiftly will the destiny close on us. + It drove me hither from my calm asylum, + It mocks my soul with charming witchery, + It lures me forward in a seraph's shape, + I see it near, I see it nearer floating, + It draws, it pulls me with a godlike power— + And lo! the abyss—and thither am I moving— + I have no power within me not to move! + [The music from the banquet-room becomes louder. + Oh, when a house is, doomed in fire to perish, + Many and dark Heaven drives his clouds together, + Yea, shoots his lightnings down from sunny heights, + Flames burst from out the subterraneous chasms, + And fiends and angels, mingling in their fury, + Sling firebrands at the burning edifice. <a href="#linknote-13" + name="linknoteref-13" id="linknoteref-13">13</a> + + [Exit THEKLA. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0027" id="link2H_4_0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT IV. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0028" id="link2H_4_0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A large saloon lighted up with festal splendor; in the midst of it, + and in the centre of the stage a table richly set out, at which + eight generals are sitting, among whom are OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI, + TERZKY, and MARADAS. Right and left of this, but further back, two + other tables, at each of which six persons are placed. The middle + door, which is standing open, gives to the prospect a fourth table + with the same number of persons. More forward stands the sideboard. + The whole front of the stage is kept open, for the pages and + servants-in-waiting. All is in motion. The band of music belonging + to TERZKY's regiment march across the stage, and draw up around the + tables. Before they are quite off from the front of the stage, MAX. + PICCOLOMINI appears, TERZKY advances towards him with a paper, + ISOLANI comes up to meet him with a beaker, or service-cup. + + TERZKY, ISOLANI, MAX. PICCOLOMINI. + + ISOLANI. + Here, brother, what we love! Why, where hast been? + Off to thy place—quick! Terzky here has given + The mother's holiday wine up to free booty. + Here it goes on as at the Heidelberg castle. + Already hast thou lost the best. They're giving + At yonder table ducal crowns in shares; + There Sternberg's lands and chattels are put up, + With Eggenberg's, Stawata's, Lichtenstein's, + And all the great Bohemian feudalities. + Be nimble, lad! and something may turn up + For thee, who knows? off—to thy place! quick! march! + + TIEFENBACH and GOETZ (call out from the second and third tables). + Count Piccolomini! + + TERZKY. + Stop, ye shall have him in an instant. Read + This oath here, whether as 'tis here set forth, + The wording satisfies you. They've all read it, + Each in his turn, and each one will subscribe + His individual signature. + + MAX. (reads). + "Ingratis servire nefas." + + ISOLANI. + That sounds to my ears very much like Latin, + And being interpreted, pray what may it mean? + + TERZKY. + No honest man will serve a thankless master. + + MAX. "Inasmuch as our supreme commander, the illustrious Duke of + Friedland, in consequence of the manifold affronts and grievances which + he has received, had expressed his determination to quit the emperor, but + on our unanimous entreaty has graciously consented to remain still with + the army, and not to part from us without our approbation thereof, so we, + collectively and each in particular, in the stead of an oath personally + taken, do, hereby oblige ourselves—likewise by him honorably and + faithfully to hold, and in nowise whatsoever from him to part, and to be + ready to shed for his interests the last drop of our blood, so far, + namely, as our oath to the emperor will permit it. (These last words are + repeated by ISOLANI.) In testimony of which we subscribe our names." + + TERZKY. + Now! are you willing to subscribe to this paper? + + ISOLANI. + Why should he not? All officers of honor + Can do it, ay, must do it. Pen and ink here! + + TERZKY. + Nay, let it rest till after meal. + + ISOLANI (drawing MAX. along). + Come, Max! + + [Both seat themselves at their table. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0029" id="link2H_4_0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + TERZKY, NEUMANN. + + TERZKY (beckons to NEUMANN, who is waiting at the side-table and steps + forward with him to the edge of the stage). + Have you the copy with you, Neumann? Give it. + It may be changed for the other? + + NEUMANN. + I have copied it + Letter by letter, line by line; no eye + Would e'er discover other difference, + Save only the omission of that clause, + According to your excellency's order. + + TERZKY. + Right I lay it yonder and away with this— + It has performed its business—to the fire with it. + + [NEUMANN lays the copy on the table, and steps back again + to the side-table. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ILLO (comes out from the second chamber), TERZKY. + + ILLO. + How goes it with young Piccolomini! + + TERZKY. + All right, I think. He has started no object. + + ILLO. + He is the only one I fear about— + He and his father. Have an eye on both! + + TERZKY. + How looks it at your table: you forget not + To keep them warm and stirring? + + ILLO. + Oh, quite cordial, + They are quite cordial in the scheme. We have them + And 'tis as I predicted too. Already + It is the talk, not merely to maintain + The duke in station. "Since we're once for all + Together and unanimous, why not," + Says Montecuculi, "ay, why not onward, + And make conditions with the emperor + There in his own Venice?" Trust me, count, + Were it not for these said Piccolomini, + We might have spared ourselves the cheat. + + TERZEY. + And Butler? + How goes it there? Hush! +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + To them enter BUTLER from a second table. + + BUTLER. + Don't disturb yourselves; + Field-marshal, I have understood you perfectly. + Good luck be to the scheme; and as to me, + [With an air of mystery. + You may depend upon me. + + ILLO (with vivacity). + May we, Butler? + + BUTLER. + With or without the clause, all one to me! + You understand me! My fidelity + The duke may put to any proof—I'm with him + Tell him so! I'm the emperor's officer, + As long as 'tis his pleasure to remain + The emperor's general! and Friedland's servant, + As soon as it shall please him to become + His own lord. + + TERZKY. + You would make a good exchange. + No stern economist, no Ferdinand, + Is he to whom you plight your services. + + BUTLER (with a haughty look). + I do not put up my fidelity + To sale, Count Terzky! Half a year ago + I would not have advised you to have made me + An overture to that, to which I now + Offer myself of my own free accord. + But that is past! and to the duke, field-marshal, + I bring myself, together with my regiment. + And mark you, 'tis my humor to believe, + The example which I give will not remain + Without an influence. + + ILLO. + Who is ignorant, + That the whole army looks to Colonel Butler + As to a light that moves before them? + + BUTLER. + Ay? + Then I repent me not of that fidelity + Which for the length of forty years I held, + If in my sixtieth year my good old name + Can purchase for me a revenge so full. + Start not at what I say, sir generals! + My real motives—they concern not you. + And you yourselves, I trust, could not expect + That this your game had crooked my judgment—or + That fickleness, quick blood, or such like cause, + Has driven the old man from the track of honor, + Which he so long had trodden. Come, my friends! + I'm not thereto determined with less firmness, + Because I know and have looked steadily + At that on which I have determined. + + ILLO. + Say, + And speak roundly, what are we to deem you? + + BUTLER. + A friend! I give you here my hand! I'm yours + With all I have. Not only men, but money + Will the duke want. Go, tell him, sirs! + I've earned and laid up somewhat in his service, + I lend it him; and is he my survivor, + It has been already long ago bequeathed to him; + He is my heir. For me, I stand alone + Here in the world; naught know I of the feeling + That binds the husband to a wife and children. + My name dies with me, my existence ends. + + ILLO. + 'Tis not your money that he needs—a heart + Like yours weighs tons of gold down, weighs down millions! + + BUTLER. + I came a simple soldier's boy from Ireland + To Prague—and with a master, whom I buried. + From lowest stable duty I climbed up, + Such was the fate of war, to this high rank, + The plaything of a whimsical good fortune. + And Wallenstein too is a child of luck: + I love a fortune that is like my own. + + ILLO. + All powerful souls have kindred with each other. + + BUTLER. + This is an awful moment! to the brave, + To the determined, an auspicious moment. + The Prince of Weimar arms, upon the Maine, + To found a mighty dukedom. He of Halberstadt, + That Mansfeldt, wanted but a longer life + To have marked out with his good sword a lordship + That should reward his courage. Who of these + Equals our Friedland? There is nothing, nothing + So high, but he may set the ladder to it! + + TERZKY. + That's spoken like a man! + + BUTLER. + Do you secure the Spaniard and Italian— + I'll be your warrant for the Scotchman Lesly. + Come to the company! + + TERZKY. + Where is the master of the cellar? Ho! + Let the best wines come up. Ho! cheerly, boy! + Luck comes to-day, so give her hearty welcome. + + [Exeunt, each to his table. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0032" id="link2H_4_0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The MASTER OF THE CELLAR, advancing with NEUMANN, SERVANTS passing + backwards and forwards. +</pre> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. The best wine! Oh, if my old mistress, his lady + mother, could but see these wild goings on she would turn herself round in + her grave. Yes, yes, sir officer! 'tis all down the hill with this noble + house! no end, no moderation! And this marriage with the duke's sister, a + splendid connection, a very splendid connection! but I will tell you, sir + officer, it looks no good. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Heaven forbid! Why, at this very moment the whole prospect is in + bud and blossom! + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. You think so? Well, well! much may be said on that + head. + </p> + <p> + FIRST SERVANT (comes). Burgundy for the fourth table. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. Now, sir lieutenant, if this aint the seventieth + flask—— + </p> + <p> + FIRST SERVANT. Why, the reason is, that German lord, Tiefenbach, sits at + that table. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR (continuing his discourse to NEUMANN). They are + soaring too high. They would rival kings and electors in their pomp and + splendor; and wherever the duke leaps, not a minute does my gracious + master, the count, loiter on the brink—(to the SERVANTS). What do + you stand there listening for? I will let you know you have legs + presently. Off! see to the tables, see to the flasks! Look there! Count + Palfi has an empty glass before him! + </p> + <p> + RUNNER (comes). The great service-cup is wanted, sir, that rich gold cup + with the Bohemian arms on it. The count says you know which it is. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. Ay! that was made for Frederick's coronation by the + artist William—there was not such another prize in the whole booty + at Prague. + </p> + <p> + RUNNER. The same!—a health is to go round in him. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR (shaking his head while he fetches and rinses the + cups). This will be something for the tale-bearers—this goes to + Vienna. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Permit me to look at it. Well, this is a cup indeed! How heavy! + as well it may be, being all gold. And what neat things are embossed on + it! how natural and elegant they look! There, on the first quarter, let me + see. That proud amazon there on horseback, she that is taking a leap over + the crosier and mitres, and carries on a wand a hat together with a + banner, on which there's a goblet represented. Can you tell me what all + this signifies? + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. The woman you see there on horseback is the Free + Election of the Bohemian Crown. That is signified by the round hat and by + that fiery steed on which she is riding. The hat is the pride of man; for + he who cannot keep his hat on before kings and emperors is no free man. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. But what is the cup there on the banner. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. The cup signifies the freedom of the Bohemian + Church, as it was in our forefathers' times. Our forefathers in the wars + of the Hussites forced from the pope this noble privilege; for the pope, + you know, will not grant the cup to any layman. Your true Moravian values + nothing beyond the cup; it is his costly jewel, and has cost the Bohemians + their precious blood in many and many a battle. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. And what says that chart that hangs in the air there, over it + all? + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. That signifies the Bohemian letter-royal which we + forced from the Emperor Rudolph—a precious, never to be enough + valued parchment, that secures to the new church the old privileges of + free ringing and open psalmody. But since he of Steiermark has ruled over + us that is at an end; and after the battle at Prague, in which Count + Palatine Frederick lost crown and empire, our faith hangs upon the pulpit + and the altar—and our brethren look at their homes over their + shoulders; but the letter-royal the emperor himself cut to pieces with his + scissors. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Why, my good Master of the Cellar! you are deep read in the + chronicles of your country. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. So were my forefathers, and for that reason were + they minstrels, and served under Procopius and Ziska. Peace be with their + ashes! Well, well! they fought for a good cause though. There! carry it + up! + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Stay! let me but look at this second quarter. Look there! That + is, when at Prague Castle, the imperial counsellors, Martinitz and + Stawata, were hurled down head over heels. 'Tis even so! there stands + Count Thur who commands it. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [RUNNER takes the service-cup and goes off with it. +</pre> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. Oh, let me never more hear of that day. It was the + three-and-twentieth of May in the year of our Lord one thousand six + hundred and eighteen. It seems to me as it were but yesterday—from + that unlucky day it all began, all the heartaches of the country. Since + that day it is now sixteen years, and there has never once been peace on + the earth. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Health drunk aloud at the second table. +</pre> + <p> + The Prince of Weimar! Hurrah! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [At the third and fourth tables. +</pre> + <p> + Long live Prince William! Long live Duke Bernard! Hurrah! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Music strikes up. +</pre> + <p> + FIRST SERVANT. Hear 'em! Hear 'em! What an uproar! + </p> + <p> + SECOND SERVANT (comes in running). Did you hear? They have drunk the + Prince of Weimar's health. + </p> + <p> + THIRD SERVANT. The Swedish chief commander! + </p> + <p> + FIRST SERVANT (speaking at the same time). The Lutheran! + </p> + <p> + SECOND SERVANT. Just before, when Count Deodati gave out the emperor's + health, they were all as mum as a nibbling mouse. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR. Po, po! When the wine goes in strange things come + out. A good servant hears, and hears not! You should be nothing but eyes + and feet, except when you are called to. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +SECOND SERVANT. + [To the RUNNER, to whom he gives secretly a flask of wine, keeping + his eye on the MASTER OF THE CELLAR, standing between him and the + RUNNER. +Quick, Thomas! before the Master of the Cellar runs this way; 'tis a +flask of Frontignac! Snapped it up at the third table. Canst go off +with it? +</pre> + <p> + RUNNER (hides it in his, pocket). All right! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Exit the Second Servant. +</pre> + <p> + THIRD SERVANT (aside to the FIRST). Be on the hark, Jack! that we may have + right plenty to tell to Father Quivoga. He will give us right plenty of + absolution in return for it. + </p> + <p> + FIRST SERVANT. For that very purpose I am always having something to do + behind Illo's chair. He is the man for speeches to make you stare with. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR (to NEUMANN). Who, pray, may that swarthy man be, he + with the cross, that is chatting so confidently with Esterhats? + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Ay, he too is one of those to whom they confide too much. He + calls himself Maradas; a Spaniard is he. + </p> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR (impatiently). Spaniard! Spaniard! I tell you, + friend, nothing good comes of those Spaniards. All these outlandish + fellows are little better than rogues. + </p> + <p> + NEUMANN. Fy, fy! you should not say so, friend. There are among them our + very best generals, and those on whom the duke at this moment relies the + most. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +MASTER OF THE CELLAR. + [Taking the flask out of RUNNER'S pocket. +My son, it will be broken to pieces in your pocket. + + [TERZKY hurries in, fetches away the paper, and calls to a servant + for pen and ink, and goes to the back of the stage. +</pre> + <p> + MASTER OF THE CELLAR (to the SERVANTS). The lieutenant-general stands up. + Be on the watch. Now! They break up. Off, and move back the forms. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [They rise at all the tables, the SERVANTS hurry off the front of + the stage to the tables; part of the guests come forward. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0033" id="link2H_4_0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI enters, in conversation with MARADAS, and both + place themselves quite on the edge of the stage on one side of the + proscenium. On the side directly opposite, MAX. PICCOLOMINI, by + himself, lost in thought, and taking no part in anything that is + going forward. The middle space between both, but rather more + distant from the edge of the stage, is filled up by BUTLER, ISOLANI, + GOETZ, TIEFENBACH, and KOLATTO. +</pre> + <p> + ISOLANI (while the company is coming forward). Good-night, good-night, + Kolatto! Good-night, lieutenant-general! I should rather say good-morning. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ (to TIEFENBACH). Noble brother! (making the usual compliment after + meals). + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. Ay! 'twas a royal feast indeed. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ. Yes, my lady countess understands these matters. Her mother-in-law, + heaven rest her soul, taught her! Ah! that was a housewife for you! + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. There was not her like in all Bohemia for setting out a table. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO (aside to MARADAS). Do me the favor to talk to me—talk of + what you will—or of nothing. Only preserve the appearance at least + of talking. I would not wish to stand by myself, and yet I conjecture that + there will be goings on here worthy of our attentive observation. (He + continues to fix his eye on the whole following scene.) + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (on the point of going). Lights! lights! + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (advances with the paper to ISOLANI). Noble brother; two minutes + longer! Here is something to subscribe. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. Subscribe as much as you like—but you must excuse me from + reading it. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. There is no need. It is the oath which you have already read. Only + a few marks of your pen! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [ISOLANI hands over the paper to OCTAVIO respectfully. +</pre> + <p> + TERZKY. Nay, nay, first come, first served. There is no precedence here. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [OCTAVIO runs over the paper with apparent indifference. + TERZKY watches him at some distance. +</pre> + <p> + GOETZ (to TERZKY). Noble count! with your permission—good-night. + </p> + <p> + TERKZY. Where's the hurry? Come, one other composing draught. (To the + SERVANTS). Ho! + </p> + <p> + GOETZ. Excuse me—aint able. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. A thimble-full. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ. Excuse me. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH (sits down). Pardon me, nobles! This standing does not agree + with me. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. Consult your own convenience, general. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. Clear at head, sound in stomach—only my legs won't carry + me any longer. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (pointing at his corpulence). Poor legs! how should they! Such an + unmerciful load! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [OCTAVIO subscribes his name, and reaches over the paper to TERZKY, + who gives it to ISOLANI; and he goes to the table to sign his name. +</pre> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. 'Twas that war in Pomerania that first brought it on. Out in + all weathers—ice and snow—no help for it. I shall never get + the better of it all the days of my life. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ. Why, in simple verity, your Swedes make no nice inquiries about the + season. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (observing ISOLANI, whose hand trembles excessively so that he can + scarce direct his pen). Have you had that ugly complaint long, noble + brother? Despatch it. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. The sins of youth! I have already tried the chalybeate waters. + Well—I must bear it. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [TERZKY gives the paper to MARADAS; he steps to the table + to subscribe. +</pre> + <p> + OCTAVIO (advancing to BUTLER). You are not over-fond of the orgies of + Bacchus, colonel! I have observed it. You would, I think, find yourself + more to your liking in the uproar of a battle than of a feast. + </p> + <p> + BUTLER. I must confess 'tis not in my way. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO (stepping nearer to him friendlily). Nor in mine neither, I can + assure you; and I am not a little glad, my much-honored Colonel Butler, + that we agree so well in our opinions. A half-dozen good friends at most, + at a small round table, a glass of genuine Tokay, open hearts, and a + rational conversation—that's my taste. + </p> + <p> + BUTLER. And mine, too, when it can be had. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The paper comes to TIEFENBACH, who glances over it at the same time + with GOETZ and KOLATTO. MARADAS in the meantime returns to OCTAVIO. + All this takes places, the conversation with BUTLER proceeding + uninterrupted. +</pre> + <p> + OCTAVIO (introducing MADARAS to BUTLER.) Don Balthasar Maradas! likewise a + man of our stamp, and long ago your admirer. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [BUTLER bows. +</pre> + <p> + OCTAVIO (continuing). You are a stranger here—'twas but yesterday + you arrived—you are ignorant of the ways and means here. 'Tis a + wretched place. I know at your age one loves to be snug and quiet. What if + you move your lodgings? Come, be my visitor. (BUTLER makes a low bow.) + Nay, without compliment! For a friend like you I have still a corner + remaining. + </p> + <p> + BUTLER (coldly). Your obliged humble servant, my lord lieutenant-general. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The paper comes to BUTLER, who goes to the table to subscribe it. + The front of the stage is vacant, so that both the PICCOLOMINIS, + each on the side where he had been from the commencement of the +</pre> + <p> + SCENE, remain alone. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO (after having some time watched his son in silence, advances + somewhat nearer to him). You were long absent from us, friend! + </p> + <p> + MAX. I—urgent business detained me. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO. And, I observe, you are still absent! + </p> + <p> + MAX. You know this crowd and bustle always makes me silent. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO (advancing still nearer). May I be permitted to ask what the + business was that detained you? Terzky knows it without asking. + </p> + <p> + MAX. What does Terzky know? + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO. He was the only one who did not miss you. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (who has been attending to them for some distance steps up). Well + done, father! Rout out his baggage! Beat up his quarters! there is + something there that should not be. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (with the paper). Is there none wanting? Have the whole subscribed? + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO. All. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (calling aloud). Ho! Who subscribes? + </p> + <p> + BUTLER (to TERZKY). Count the names. There ought to be just thirty. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. Here is a cross. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. That's my mark! + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. He cannot write; but his cross is a good cross, and is honored by + Jews as well as Christians. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO (presses on to MAX.). Come, general! let us go. It is late. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. One Piccolomini only has signed. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (pointing to MAX.). Look! that is your man, that statue there, who + has had neither eye, ear, nor tongue for us the whole evening. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [MAX. receives the paper from TERZKY, which he looks upon vacantly. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0034" id="link2H_4_0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + To these enter ILLO from the inner room. He has in his hand a + golden service-cup, and is extremely distempered with drinking; + GOETZ and BUTLER follow him, endeavoring to keep him back. +</pre> + <p> + ILLO. What do you want! Let me go. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ and BUTLER. Drink no more, Illo! For heaven's sake, drink no more. + </p> + <p> + ILLO (goes up to OCTAVIO, and shakes him cordially by the hand, and then + drinks). Octavio! I bring this to you! Let all grudge be drowned in this + friendly bowl! I know well enough you never loved me—devil take me! + and I never loved you! I am always even with people in that way! Let + what's past be past—that is, you understand—forgotten! I + esteem you infinitely. (Embracing him repeatedly.) You have not a dearer + friend on earth than I, but that you know. The fellow that cries rogue to + you calls me villain, and I'll strangle him! my dear friend! + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (whispering to him). Art in thy senses? For heaven's sake, Illo, + think where you are! + </p> + <p> + ILLO (aloud). What do you mean? There are none but friends here, are + there? (Looks round the whole circle with a jolly and triumphant air.) Not + a sneaker amongst us, thank heaven. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (to BUTLER, eagerly). Take him off with you, force him off, I + entreat you, Butler! + </p> + <p> + BUTLER (to ILLO). Field-marshal! a word with you. (Leads to the + side-board.) + </p> + <p> + ILLO (cordially). A thousand for one. Fill; fill it once more up to the + brim. To this gallant man's health! + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (to MAX., who all the while has been staring on the paper with + fixed but vacant eyes). Slow and sure, my noble brother! Hast parsed it + all yet? Some words yet to go through? Ha? + </p> + <p> + MAX. (waking as from a dream). What am I to do? + </p> + <p> + TERZKY, and at the same time ISOLANI. Sign your name. (OCTAVIO directs his + eyes on him with intense anxiety). + </p> + <p> + MAX. (returns the paper). Let it stay till to-morrow. It is business; + to-day I am not sufficiently collected. Send it to me to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. Nay, collect yourself a little. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. Awake man, awake! Come, thy signature, and have done with it! + What! Thou art the youngest in the whole company, and would be wiser than + all of us together! Look there! thy father has signed; we have all signed. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (to OCTAVIO). Use your influence. Instruct him. + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO. My son is at the age of discretion. + </p> + <p> + ILLO (leaves the service-cup on the sideboard). What's the dispute? + </p> + <p> + TERZKY. He declines subscribing the paper. + </p> + <p> + MAX. I say it may as well stay till to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + ILLO. It cannot stay. We have all subscribed to it—and so must you. + You must subscribe. + </p> + <p> + MAX. Illo, good-night! + </p> + <p> + ILLO. No! you come not off so! The duke shall learn who are his friends. + (All collect round ILLO and MAX.) + </p> + <p> + MAX. What my sentiments are towards the duke, the duke knows, every one + knows—what need of this wild stuff? + </p> + <p> + ILLO. This is the thanks the duke gets for his partiality to Italians and + foreigners. Us Bohemians he holds for little better than dullards— + nothing pleases him but what's outlandish. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (in extreme embarrassment, to the Commanders, who at ILLO's words + give a sudden start as preparing to resent them). It is the wine that + speaks, and not his reason. Attend not to him, I entreat you. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (with a bitter laugh). Wine invents nothing: it only tattles. + </p> + <p> + ILLO. He who is not with me is against me. Your tender consciences! Unless + they can slip out by a back-door, by a puny proviso—— + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (interrupting him). He is stark mad—don't listen to him! + </p> + <p> + ILLO (raising his voice to the highest pitch). Unless they can slip out by + a proviso. What of the proviso? The devil take this proviso! + </p> + <p> + MAX. (has his attention roused, and looks again into the paper). What is + there here then of such perilous import? You make me curious—I must + look closer at it. + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (in a low voice to ILLO). What are you doing, Illo? You are ruining + us. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH (to KOLATTO). Ay, ay! I observed, that before we sat down to + supper, it was read differently. + </p> + <p> + GOETZ. Why, I seemed to think so too. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. What do I care for that? Where there stand other names mine can + stand too. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. Before supper there was a certain proviso therein, or short + clause, concerning our duties to the emperor. + </p> + <p> + BUTLER (to one of the Commanders). For shame, for shame! Bethink you. What + is the main business here? The question now is, whether we shall keep our + general, or let him retire. One must not take these things too nicely, and + over-scrupulously. + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI (to one of the Generals). Did the duke make any of these provisos + when he gave you your regiment? + </p> + <p> + TERZKY (to GOETZ). Or when he gave you the office of army-purveyancer, + which brings you in yearly a thousand pistoles! + </p> + <p> + ILLO. He is a rascal who makes us out to be rogues. If there be any one + that wants satisfaction, let him say so,—I am his man. + </p> + <p> + TIEFENBACH. Softly, softly? 'Twas but a word or two. + </p> + <p> + MAX. (having read the paper gives it back). Till to-morrow therefore! + </p> + <p> + ILLO (stammering with rage and fury, loses all command over himself and + presents the paper to MAX. With one hand, and his sword in the other). + Subscribe—Judas! + </p> + <p> + ISOLANI. Out upon you, Illo! + </p> + <p> + OCTAVIO, TERZKY, BUTLER (all together). Down with the sword! + </p> + <p> + MAX. (rushes on him suddenly and disarms him, then to COUNT TERZKY). Take + him off to bed! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [MAX leaves the stage. ILLO cursing and raving is held back by some + of the officers, and amidst a universal confusion the curtain drops. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0035" id="link2H_4_0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT V. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0036" id="link2H_4_0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A Chamber in PICCOLOMINI's Mansion. It is Night. + + OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI. A VALET DE CHAMBRE with Lights. + + OCTAVIO. + And when my son comes in, conduct him hither. + What is the hour? + + VALET. + 'Tis on the point of morning. + + OCTAVIO. + Set down the light. We mean not to undress. + You may retire to sleep. + + [Exit VALET. OCTAVIO paces, musing, across the chamber; MAX. + PICCOLOMINI enters unobserved, and looks at his father for some + moments in silence. + + MAX. + Art thou offended with me? Heaven knows + That odious business was no fault of mine. + 'Tis true, indeed, I saw thy signature, + What thou hast sanctioned, should not, it might seem, + Have come amiss to me. But—'tis my nature— + Thou know'st that in such matters I must follow + My own light, not another's. + + OCTAVIO (goes up to him and embraces him). + Follow it, + Oh, follow it still further, my best son! + To-night, dear boy! it hath more faithfully + Guided thee than the example of thy father. + + MAX. + Declare thyself less darkly. + + OCTAVIO. + I will do so; + For after what has taken place this night, + There must remain no secrets 'twixt us two. + [Both seat themselves. + Max. Piccolomini! what thinkest thou of + The oath that was sent round for signatures? + + MAX. + I hold it for a thing of harmless import, + Although I love not these set declarations. + + OCTAVIO. + And on no other ground hast thou refused + The signature they fain had wrested from thee? + + MAX. + It was a serious business. I was absent— + The affair itself seemed not so urgent to me. + + OCTAVIO. + Be open, Max. Thou hadst then no suspicion? + + MAX. + Suspicion! what suspicion? Not the least. + + OCTAVIO. + Thank thy good angel, Piccolomini; + He drew thee back unconscious from the abyss. + + MAX. + I know not what thou meanest. + + OCTAVIO. + I will tell thee. + Fain would they have extorted from thee, son, + The sanction of thy name to villany; + Yes, with a single flourish of thy pen, + Made thee renounce thy duty and thy honor! + + MAX. (rises). + Octavio! + + OCTAVIO. + Patience! Seat Yourself. Much yet + Hast thou to hear from me, friend! Hast for years + Lived in incomprehensible illusion. + Before thine eyes is treason drawing out + As black a web as e'er was spun for venom: + A power of hell o'erclouds thy understanding. + I dare no longer stand in silence—dare + No longer see thee wandering on in darkness, + Nor pluck the bandage from thine eyes. + + MAX. + My father! + Yet, ere thou speakest, a moment's pause of thought! + If your disclosures should appear to be + Conjectures only—and almost I fear + They will be nothing further—spare them! I + Am not in that collected mood at present, + That I could listen to them quietly. + + OCTAVIO. + The deeper cause thou hast to hate this light, + The more impatient cause have I, my son, + To force it on thee. To the innocence + And wisdom of thy heart I could have trusted thee + With calm assurance—but I see the net + Preparing—and it is thy heart itself + Alarms me, for thine innocence—that secret, + [Fixing his eyes steadfastly on his son's face. + Which thou concealest, forces mine from me. + + [MAX. attempts to answer, but hesitates, and casts his eyes + to the ground embarrassed. + + OCTAVIO (after a pause). + Know, then, they are duping thee!—a most foul game + With thee and with us all—nay, hear me calmly— + The duke even now is playing. He assumes + The mask, as if he would forsake the army; + And in this moment makes he preparations + That army from the emperor to steal, + And carry it over to the enemy! + + MAX. + That low priest's legend I know well, but did not + Expect to hear it from thy mouth. + + OCTAVIO. + That mouth, + From which thou hearest it at this present moment, + Doth warrant thee that it is no priest's legend. + + MAX. + How mere a maniac they supposed the duke; + What, he can meditate?—the duke?—can dream + That he can lure away full thirty thousand + Tried troops and true, all honorable soldiers, + More than a thousand noblemen among them, + From oaths, from duty, from their honor lure them, + And make them all unanimous to do + A deed that brands them scoundrels? + + OCTAVIO. + Such a deed, + With such a front of infamy, the duke + No way desires—what he requires of us + Bears a far gentler appellation. Nothing + He wishes but to give the empire peace. + And so, because the emperor hates this peace, + Therefore the duke—the duke will force him to it. + All parts of the empire will he pacify, + And for his trouble will retain in payment + (What he has already in his gripe)—Bohemia! + + MAX. + Has he, Octavio, merited of us, + That we—that we should think so vilely of him? + + OCTAVIO. + What we would think is not the question here, + The affair speaks for itself—and clearest proofs! + Hear me, my son—'tis not unknown to thee, + In what ill credit with the court we stand. + But little dost thou know, or guess what tricks, + What base intrigues, what lying artifices, + Have been employed—for this sole end—to sow + Mutiny in the camp! All bands are loosed— + Loosed all the bands that link the officer + To his liege emperor, all that bind the soldier + Affectionately to the citizen. + Lawless he stands, and threateningly beleaguers + The state he's bound to guard. To such a height + 'Tis swollen, that at this hour the emperor + Before his armies—his own armies—trembles; + Yea, in his capital, his palace, fears + The traitor's poniard, and is meditating + To hurry off and hide his tender offspring— + Not from the Swedes, not from the Lutherans—no, + From his own troops to hide and hurry them! + + MAX. + Cease, cease! thou torturest, shatterest me. I know + That oft we tremble at an empty terror; + But the false phantasm brings a real misery. + + OCTAVIO. + It is no phantasm. An intestine war, + Of all the most unnatural and cruel, + Will burst out into flames, if instantly + We do not fly and stifle it. The generals + Are many of them long ago won over; + The subalterns are vacillating; whole + Regiments and garrisons are vacillating. + To foreigners our strongholds are intrusted; + To that suspected Schafgotch is the whole + Force of Silesia given up: to Terzky + Five regiments, foot and horse; to Isolani, + To Illo, Kinsky, Butler, the best troops. + + MAX. + Likewise to both of us. + + OCTAVIO. + Because the duke + Believes he has secured us, means to lure us + Still further on by splendid promises. + To me he portions forth the princedoms, Glatz + And Sagan; and too plain I see the bait + With which he doubts not but to catch thee. + + MAX. + No! no! + I tell thee, no! + + OCTAVIO. + Oh, open yet thine eyes! + And to what purpose think'st thou he has called + Hither to Pilsen? to avail himself + Of our advice? Oh, when did Friedland ever + Need our advice? Be calm, and listen to me. + To sell ourselves are we called hither, and + Decline we that, to be his hostages. + Therefore doth noble Gallas stand aloof; + Thy father, too, thou wouldst not have seen here, + If higher duties had not held him fettered. + + MAX. + He makes no secret of it—needs make none— + That we're called hither for his sake—he owns it. + He needs our aidance to maintain himself— + He did so much for us; and 'tis but fair + That we, too, should do somewhat now for him. + + OCTAVIO. + And know'st thou what it is which we must do? + That Illo's drunken mood betrayed it to thee. + Bethink thyself, what hast thou heard, what seen? + The counterfeited paper, the omission + Of that particular clause, so full of meaning, + Does it not prove that they would bind us down + To nothing good? + + MAX. + That counterfeited paper + Appears to me no other than a trick + Of Illo's own device. These underhand + Traders in great men's interests ever use + To urge and hurry all things to the extreme. + They see the duke at variance with the court, + And fondly think to serve him, when they widen + The breach irreparably. Trust me, father, + The duke knows nothing of all this. + + OCTAVIO. + It grieves me + That I must dash to earth, that I must shatter + A faith so specious; but I may not spare thee! + For this is not a time for tenderness. + Thou must take measured, speedy ones, must act. + I therefore will confess to thee that all + Which I've intrusted to thee now, that all + Which seems to thee so unbelievable, + That—yes, I will tell thee, (a pause) Max.! I had it all + From his own mouth, from the duke's mouth I had it. + + MAX (in excessive agitation). + No! no! never! + + OCTAVIO. + Himself confided to me + What I, 'tis true, had long before discovered + By other means; himself confided to me, + That 'twas his settled plan to join the Swedes; + And, at the head of the united armies, + Compel the emperor—— + + MAX. + He is passionate, + The court has stung him; he is sore all over + With injuries and affronts; and in a moment + Of irritation, what if he, for once, + Forgot himself? He's an impetuous man. + + OCTAVIO. + Nay, in cold blood he did confess this to me + And having construed my astonishment + Into a scruple of his power, he showed me + His written evidences—showed me letters, + Both from the Saxon and the Swede, that gave + Promise of aidance, and defined the amount. + + MAX. + It cannot be!—cannot be! cannot be! + Dost thou not see, it cannot! + Thou wouldst of necessity have shown him + Such horror, such deep loathing—that or he + Had taken thee for his better genius, or + Thou stood'st not now a living man before me. + + OCTAVIO. + I have laid open my objections to him, + Dissuaded him with pressing earnestness; + But my abhorrence, the full sentiment + Of my whole heart—that I have still kept safe + To my own consciousness. + + MAX. + And thou hast been + So treacherous? That looks not like my father! + I trusted not thy words, when thou didst tell me + Evil of him; much less can I now do it, + That thou calumniatest thy own self. + + OCTAVIO. + I did not thrust myself into his secrecy. + + MAX. + Uprightness merited his confidence. + + OCTAVIO. + He was no longer worthy of sincerity. + + MAX. + Dissimulation, sure, was still less worthy + Of thee, Octavio! + + OCTAVIO. + Gave I him a cause + To entertain a scruple of my honor? + + MAX. + That he did not evince his confidence. + + OCTAVIO. + Dear son, it is not always possible + Still to preserve that infant purity + Which the voice teaches in our inmost heart, + Still in alarm, forever on the watch + Against the wiles of wicked men: e'en virtue + Will sometimes bear away her outward robes + Soiled in the wrestle with iniquity. + This is the curse of every evil deed + That, propagating still, it brings forth evil. + I do not cheat my better soul with sophisms; + I but perform my orders; the emperor + Prescribes my conduct to me. Dearest boy, + Far better were it, doubtless, if we all + Obeyed the heart at all times; but so doing, + In this our present sojourn with bad men, + We must abandon many an honest object. + 'Tis now our call to serve the emperor; + By what means he can best be served—the heart + May whisper what it will—this is our call! + + MAX. + It seems a thing appointed, that to-day + I should not comprehend, not understand thee. + The duke, thou sayest, did honestly pour out + His heart to thee, but for an evil purpose: + And thou dishonestly hast cheated him + For a good purpose! Silence, I entreat thee— + My friend, thou stealest not from me— + Let me not lose my father! + + OCTAVIO (suppressing resentment). + As yet thou knowest not all, my son. I have + Yet somewhat to disclose to thee. + [After a pause. + Duke Friedland + Hath made his preparations. He relies + Upon the stars. He deems us unprovided, + And thinks to fall upon us by surprise. + Yea, in his dream of hope, he grasps already + The golden circle in his hand. He errs, + We, too, have been in action—he but grasps + His evil fate, most evil, most mysterious! + + MAX. + Oh, nothing rash, my sire! By all that's good, + Let me invoke thee—no precipitation! + + OCTAVIO. + With light tread stole he on his evil way, + And light of tread hath vengeance stole on after him. + Unseen she stands already, dark behind him + But one step more—he shudders in her grasp! + Thou hast seen Questenberg with me. As yet + Thou knowest but his ostensible commission: + He brought with him a private one, my son! + And that was for me only. + + MAX. + May I know it? + + OCTAVIO (seizes the patent). + Max! + In this disclosure place I in thy hands + [A pause. + The empire's welfare and thy father's life. + Dear to thy inmost heart is Wallenstein + A powerful tie of love, of veneration, + Hath knit thee to him from thy earliest youth. + Thou nourishest the wish,—O let me still + Anticipate thy loitering confidence! + The hope thou nourishest to knit thyself + Yet closer to him—— + + MAX. + Father—— + + OCTAVIO. + Oh, my son! + I trust thy heart undoubtingly. But am I + Equally sure of thy collectedness? + Wilt thou be able, with calm countenance, + To enter this man's presence, when that I + Have trusted to thee his whole fate? + + MAX. + According + As thou dost trust me, father, with his crime. + + [OCTAVIO takes a paper out of his escritoire and gives it to him. + + MAX. + What! how! a full imperial patent! + + OCTAVIO. + Read it. + + MAX. (just glances on it). + Duke Friedland sentenced and condemned! + + OCTAVIO. + Even so. + + MAX. (throws down the paper). + Oh, this is too much! O unhappy error! + + OCTAVIO. + Read on. Collect thyself. + + MAX. (after he has read further, with a look of affright and astonishment + on his father). + How! what! Thou! thou! + + OCTAVIO. + But for the present moment, till the King + Of Hungary may safely join the army, + Is the command assigned to me. + + MAX. + And think'st thou, + Dost thou believe, that thou wilt tear it from him? + Oh, never hope it! Father! father! father! + An inauspicious office is enjoined thee. + This paper here!—this! and wilt thou enforce it? + The mighty in the middle of his host, + Surrounded by his thousands, him wouldst thou + Disarm—degrade! Thou art lost, both thou and all of us. + + OCTAVIO. + What hazard I incur thereby, I know. + In the great hand of God I stand. The Almighty + Will cover with his shield the imperial house, + And shatter, in his wrath, the work of darkness. + The emperor hath true servants still; and even + Here in the camp, there are enough brave men + Who for the good cause will fight gallantly. + The faithful have been warned—the dangerous + Are closely watched. I wait but the first step, + And then immediately—— + + Max. + What? On suspicion? + Immediately? + + OCTAVIO. + The emperor is no tyrant. + The deed alone he'll punish, not the wish. + The duke hath yet his destiny in his power. + Let him but leave the treason uncompleted, + He will be silently displaced from office, + And make way to his emperor's royal son. + An honorable exile to his castles + Will be a benefaction to him rather + Than punishment. But the first open step—— + + MAX. + What callest thou such a step? A wicked step + Ne'er will he take; but thou mightest easily, + Yea, thou hast done it, misinterpret him. + + OCTAVIO. + Nay, howsoever punishable were + Duke Friedland's purposes, yet still the steps + Which he hath taken openly permit + A mild construction. It is my intention + To leave this paper wholly unenforced + Till some act is committed which convicts him + Of high treason, without doubt or plea, + And that shall sentence him. + + MAX. + But who the judge + + OCTAVIO. + Thyself. + + MAX. + Forever, then, this paper will lie idle. + + OCTAVIO. + Too soon, I fear, its powers must all be proved. + After the counter-promise of this evening, + It cannot be but he must deem himself + Secure of the majority with us; + And of the army's general sentiment + He hath a pleasing proof in that petition, + Which thou delivered'st to him from the regiments. + Add this too—I have letters that the Rhinegrave + Hath changed his route, and travels by forced marches + To the Bohemian forests. What this purports + Remains unknown; and, to confirm suspicion, + This night a Swedish nobleman arrived here. + + MAX. + I have thy word. Thou'lt not proceed to action + Before thou hast convinced me—me myself. + + OCTAVIO. + Is it possible? Still, after all thou know'st, + Canst thou believe still in his innocence? + + MAX. (with enthusiasm). + Thy judgment may mistake; my heart cannot. + [Moderates his voice and manner. + These reasons might expound thy spirit or mine; + But they expound not Friedland—I have faith: + For as he knits his fortunes to the stars, + Even so doth he resemble them in secret, + Wonderful, still inexplicable courses! + Trust me, they do him wrong. All will be solved. + These smokes at once will kindle into flame— + The edges of this black and stormy cloud + Will brighten suddenly, and we shall view + The unapproachable glide out in splendor. + + OCTAVIO. + I will await it. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0037" id="link2H_4_0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + OCTAVIO and MAX. as before. To then the VALET OF + THE CHAMBER. + + OCTAVIO. + How now, then? + + VALET. + A despatch is at the door. + + OCTAVIO. + So early? From whom comes he then? Who is it? + + VALET. + That he refused to tell me. + + OCTAVIO. + Lead him in: + And, hark you—let it not transpire. + + [Exit VALET: the CORNET steps in. + </pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="2pb270 (151K)" src="images/2pb270.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + OCTAVIO. + Ha! cornet—is it you; and from Count Gallas? + Give me your letters. + + CORNET. + The lieutenant-general + Trusted it not to letters. + + OCTAVIO. + And what is it? + + CORNET. + He bade me tell you—Dare I speak openly here? + + OCTAVIO. + My son knows all. + + CORNET. + We have him. + + OCTAVIO. + Whom? + + CORNET. + Sesina, + The old negotiator. + + OCTAVIO (eagerly). + And you have him? + + CORNET. + In the Bohemian Forest Captain Mohrbrand + Found and secured him yester-morning early. + He was proceeding then to Regensburg, + And on him were despatches for the Swede. + + OCTAVIO. + And the despatches—— + + CORNET. + The lieutenant-general + Sent them that instant to Vienna, and + The prisoner with them. + + OCTAVIO. + This is, indeed, a tiding! + That fellow is a precious casket to us, + Enclosing weighty things. Was much found on him? + + CORNET. + I think, six packets, with Count Terzky's arms. + + OCTAVIO. + None in the duke's own hand? + + CORNET. + Not that I know. + + OCTAVIO. + And old Sesina. + + CORNET. + He was sorely frightened. + When it was told him he must to Vienna; + But the Count Altringer bade him take heart, + Would he but make a full and free confession. + + OCTAVIO. + Is Altringer then with your lord? I heard + That he lay sick at Linz. + + CORNET. + These three days past + He's with my master, the lieutenant-general, + At Frauenburg. Already have they sixty + Small companies together, chosen men; + Respectfully they greet you with assurances, + That they are only waiting your commands. + + OCTAVIO. + In a few days may great events take place. + And when must you return? + + CORNET. + I wait your orders. + + OCTAVIO. + Remain till evening. + [CORNET signifies his assent and obeisance, and is going. + No one saw you—ha? + + CORNET. + No living creature. Through the cloister wicket + The capuchins, as usual, let me in. + + OCTAVIO. + Go, rest your limbs, and keep yourself concealed. + I hold it probable that yet ere evening + I shall despatch you. The development + Of this affair approaches: ere the day, + That even now is dawning in the heaven, + Ere this eventful day hath set, the lot + That must decide our fortunes will be drawn. + + [Exit CORNET. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0038" id="link2H_4_0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SCENE III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + OCTAVIO and MAX. PICCOLOMINI. + + OCTAVIO. + Well—and what now, son? All will soon be clear; + For all, I'm certain, went through that Sesina. + + MAX. (who through the whole of the foregoing scene has been in + a violent and visible struggle of feelings, at length starts + as one resolved). + I will procure me light a shorter way. + Farewell. + + OCTAVIO. + Where now? Remain here. + + MAX. + To the Duke. + + OCTAVIO (alarmed). + What—— + + MAX. (returning). + If thou hast believed that I shall act + A part in this thy play, thou hast + Miscalculated on me grievously. + My way must be straight on. True with the tongue, + False with the heart—I may not, cannot be + Nor can I suffer that a man should trust me— + As his friend trust me—and then lull my conscience + With such low pleas as these: "I ask him not— + He did it all at his own hazard—and + My mouth has never lied to him." No, no! + What a friend takes me for, that I must be. + I'll to the duke; ere yet this day is ended + Will I demand of him that he do save + His good name from the world, and with one stride + Break through and rend this fine-spun web of yours. + He can, he will! I still am his believer, + Yet I'll not pledge myself, but that those letters + May furnish you, perchance, with proofs against him. + How far may not this Terzky have proceeded— + What may not he himself too have permitted + Himself to do, to snare the enemy, + The laws of war excusing? Nothing, save + His own mouth shall convict him—nothing less! + And face to face will I go question him. + + OCTAVIO. + Thou wilt. + + MAX. + I will, as sure as this heart beats. + + OCTAVIO. + I have, indeed, miscalculated on thee. + I calculated on a prudent son, + Who would have blessed the hand beneficent + That plucked him back from the abyss—and lo! + A fascinated being I discover, + Whom his two eyes befool, whom passion wilders, + Whom not the broadest light of noon can heal. + Go, question him! Be mad enough, I pray thee. + The purpose of thy father, of thy emperor, + Go, give it up free booty! Force me, drive me + To an open breach before the time. And now, + Now that a miracle of heaven had guarded + My secret purpose even to this hour, + And laid to sleep suspicion's piercing eyes, + Let me have lived to see that mine own son, + With frantic enterprise, annihilates + My toilsome labors and state policy. + + MAX. + Ay—this state policy! Oh, how I curse it! + You will some time, with your state policy, + Compel him to the measure: it may happen, + Because ye are determined that he is guilty, + Guilty ye'll make him. All retreat cut off, + You close up every outlet, hem him in + Narrower and narrower, till at length ye force him— + Yes, ye, ye force him, in his desperation, + To set fire to his prison. Father! father! + That never can end well—it cannot—will not! + And let it be decided as it may, + I see with boding heart the near approach + Of an ill-starred, unblest catastrophe. + For this great monarch-spirit, if he fall, + Will drag a world into the ruin with him. + And as a ship that midway on the ocean + Takes fire, at once, and with a thunder-burst + Explodes, and with itself shoots out its crew + In smoke and ruin betwixt sea and heaven! + So will he, falling, draw down in his fall + All us, who're fixed and mortised to his fortune, + Deem of it what thou wilt; but pardon me, + That I must bear me on in my own way. + All must remain pure betwixt him and me; + And, ere the daylight dawns, it must be known + Which I must lose—my father or my friend. + + [During his exit the curtain drops. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_FOOT" id="link2H_FOOT"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FOOTNOTES. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <a href="#linknoteref-1" name="linknote-1" id="linknote-1">1</a> A town about twelve German miles N.E. of Ulm. + + <a href="#linknoteref-2" name="linknote-2" id="linknote-2">2</a> The Dukes in Germany being always reigning powers, their sons + and daughters are entitled princes and princesses. + + <a href="#linknoteref-3" name="linknote-3" id="linknote-3">3</a> Carinthia. + + <a href="#linknoteref-4" name="linknote-4" id="linknote-4">4</a> A town not far from the Mine-mountains, on the high road + from Vienna to Prague. + + <a href="#linknoteref-5" name="linknote-5" id="linknote-5">5</a> In the original,— + + "Den blut'gen Lorbeer geb' ich hin mit Freuden + Fuers erste Veilchen, das der Maerz uns bringt, + Das duerftige Pfand der neuverjuengten Erde." + + <a href="#linknoteref-6" name="linknote-6" id="linknote-6">6</a> A reviewer in the Literary Gazette observes that, in these + lines, Mr. Coleridge has misapprehended the meaning of the word + "Zug," a team, translating it as "Anzug," a suit of clothes. The + following version, as a substitute, I propose:— + + When from your stables there is brought to me + A team of four most richly harnessed horses. + + The term, however, is "Jagd-zug" which may mean a "hunting + equipage," or a "hunting stud;" although Hilpert gives only "a team + of four horses." + + <a href="#linknoteref-7" name="linknote-7" id="linknote-7">7</a> Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar, who succeeded Gustavus in command. + + <a href="#linknoteref-8" name="linknote-8" id="linknote-8">8</a> The original is not translatable into English:— + + —Und sein Sold + Muss dem Soldaten werden, darnach heisst er. + + It might perhaps have been thus rendered:— + + And that for which he sold his services, + The soldier must receive— + + but a false or doubtful etymology is no more than a dull pun. + + <a href="#linknoteref-9" name="linknote-9" id="linknote-9">9</a> In Germany, after honorable addresses have been paid and formally + accepted, the lovers are called bride and bridegreoom, even though + the marriage should not take place till years afterwards. + + <a href="#linknoteref-10" name="linknote-10" id="linknote-10">10</a> I am doubtful whether this be the dedication of the cloister, + or the name of one of the city gates, near which it stood. I have + translated it in the former sense; but fearful of having made some + blunder, I add the original,— + + Es ist ein Kloster hier zur Himmelspforte. + + <a href="#linknoteref-11" name="linknote-11" id="linknote-11">11</a> No more of talk, where god or angel guest + With man, as with his friend familiar, used + To sit indulgent. Paradise Lost, B. IX. + + <a href="#linknoteref-12" name="linknote-12" id="linknote-12">12</a> I found it not in my power to translate this song with literal + fidelity preserving at the same time the Alcaic movement, and have + therefore added the original, with a prose translation. Some of my + readers may be more fortunate. + + THEKLA (spielt and singt). + + Der Eichwald brauset, die Wolken ziehn, + Das Maegdlein wandelt an Ufers Gruen; + Es bricht sich die Welle mit Macht, mit Macht, + Und sie singt hinaus in die finstre Nacht, + Das Auge von Weinen getruebet: + Das Herz is gestorben, die Welt ist leer, + Und weiter giebt sie dem Wunsche nichts mehr. + Du Heilige, rufe dein Kind zurueck, + Ich babe genossen das irdische Glueck, + Ich babe gelebt and geliebet. + + LITERAL TRANSLATION. + + THEKLA (plays and sings). The oak-forest bellows, the clouds + gather, the damsel walks to and fro on the green of the shore; the + wave breaks with might, with might, and she sings out into the dark + night, her eye discolored with weeping: the heart is dead, the world + is empty, and further gives it nothing more to the wish. Thou Holy + One, call thy child home. I have enjoyed the happiness of this + world, I have lived and have loved. + + I cannot but add here an imitation of this song, with which my + friend, Charles Lamb, has favored me, and which appears to me to + have caught the happiest manner of our old ballads:— + + The clouds are blackening, the storms are threatening, + The cavern doth mutter, the greenwood moan! + Billows are breaking, the damsel's heart aching, + Thus in the dark night she singeth alone, + He eye upward roving: + + The world is empty, the heart is dead surely, + In this world plainly all seemeth amiss; + To thy heaven, Holy One, take home thy little one. + I have partaken of all earth's bliss, + Both living and loving. + + <a href="#linknoteref-13" name="linknote-13" id="linknote-13">13</a> There are few who will not have taste enough to laugh at the + two concluding lines of this soliloquy: and still fewer, I would + fain hope, who would not have been more disposed to shudder, had I + given a faithful translation. For the readers of German I have + added the original:— + + Blind-wuethend schleudert selbst der Gott der Freude + Den Pechkranz in das brennende Gebaeude. +</pre> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Piccolomini, by Friedrich Schiller + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PICCOLOMINI *** + +***** This file should be named 6786-h.htm or 6786-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.net/6/7/8/6786/ + +Produced by Tapio Riikonen and David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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