Nay, jeer not, I entreat you. They are no such worthless fellows, I assure you.
I am assured already. God forbid That I should jest!--In very serious earnest, I am rejoiced to see an honest cause So strong.
The Devil!--what!--Why, what means this? Are you not, then--For what, then, am I here?
That you may make full declaration, whether You will be call'd the friend or enemy Of the Emperor.
That declaration, friend, I'll make to him in whom a right is placed To put that question to me.
Whether, Count, That right is mine, this paper may, instruct you.
Why,--why--what! this is the Emperor's hand and seal! [_Reads_.] "Whereas, the officers collectively Throughout our army will obey the orders Of the Lieutenant-General Piccolomini. As from ourselves."--_Hem_--Yes! so I-- Yes! yes!-- I--I give you joy, Lieutenant-General!
I-- But you have taken me so by surprise-- Time for reflection one _must_ have--
Plain and simple You must declare you, whether you determine To act a treason 'gainst your Lord and Sovereign, Or whether you will serve him faithfully.
Treason!--My God!--But who talks then of treason?
That is the case. The Prince-duke is a traitor-- Means to lead over to the enemy The Emperor's army.--Now, Count!--brief and full-- Say, will you break your oath to the Emperor? Sell yourself to the enemy?--Say, will you?
What mean you? I--I break my oath, d'ye say, To his Imperial Majesty? Did I say so!--When, when have I said that?
You have not said it yet--not yet. This instant I wait to hear, Count, whether you _will_ say it.
Ay! that delights me now, that you yourself Bear witness for me that I never said so.
If he's planning Treason--why, treason breaks all bonds asunder.
And are determined, too, to fight against him?
He has done me service--but if he's a villain, Perdition seize him!--All scores are rubb'd off.
I am rejoiced that you are so well disposed. This night, break off in the utmost secrecy With all the light-arm'd troops--it must appear As came the order from the Duke himself. At Frauenburg's the place of rendezvous; There will Count Gallas give you further orders.
It shall be done.-But you'll remember me With the Emperor--how well-disposed you found me.
Forgive me too my bearish ways, old father! Lord God! how should I know, then, what a great Person I had before me.