Stella.--Who is killed?

Countess.--Stella, my dearest, Drahomir has killed Pretwic.

Stella.--Killed! O G.o.d!

Doctor.--Princess, it is not true.

Stella.--Killed! (She staggers and falls.)

Doctor.--She has fainted. Let us carry her to her chamber.

Prince.--My child!

Czeska.--Stelunia! (The prince and Jozwowicz carry Stella. The countess and Czeska follow them.)

Jan (alone).--It is dreadful. Who could have expected that mamma would return! (The countess appears in the door.) Mamma, how is the princess?

Countess.--The doctor is trying to bring her to her senses. Until now he has not succeeded. Jan, let us be going.

Jan (in despair).--I shall not go. Why did you return from the city?

Countess.--For you. To-day is election day--have you forgotten it?

Jan.--I do not wish to be a member of parliament. Why did you tell her that Pretwic was killed?

SCENE IX.

The same. Jozwowicz.

Countess and Jan together.--What news?

Doctor.--Everything is over. (The bell is heard tolling in the chapel of the chateau.)

Jan (frightened).--What, the bell of the chapel? Then she is dead!

(Jozwowicz comes to the front of the stage and sits down.)

SCENE X.

The same. Podczaski.

Podczaski (rushing in suddenly).--Victory! Victory! The deputation is here. (Voices behind the stage) Hurrah! Hurrah! for victory!

Jozwowicz.--I have lost!

FINISH.