ISOLANI.

Here am I--Well! who comes yet of the others?

OCTAVIO (_with an air of mystery_).

But, first, a word with you, Count Isolani.

ISOLANI (_a.s.suming the same air of mystery_).

Will it explode, ha?--Is the Duke about To make the attempt? In me, friend, you may place Full confidence--Nay, put me to the proof.

OCTAVIO.

That may happen.

ISOLANI.

n.o.ble brother, I am Not one of those men who in words are valiant, And when it comes to action skulk away.

The Duke has acted toward me as a friend.

G.o.d knows it is so; and I owe him all-- He may rely on my fidelity.

OCTAVIO.

That will be seen hereafter.

ISOLANI.

Be on your guard, All think not as I think; and there are many Who still hold with the Court--yes, and they say That those stolen signatures bind them to nothing.

[OCTAVIO.

Indeed! Pray name to me the chiefs that think so.

ISOLANI.

Plague upon them! all the Germans think so; Esterhazy, Kaunitz, Deodati, too, Insist upon obedience to the Court.]

OCTAVIO.

I am rejoiced to hear it.

ISOLANI.

You rejoice

OCTAVIO.

That the Emperor has yet such gallant servants, And loving friends!

ISOLANI.

Nay, jeer not, I entreat you.

They are no such worthless fellows, I a.s.sure you.

OCTAVIO.

I am a.s.sured already. G.o.d forbid That I should jest!--In very serious earnest, I am rejoiced to see an honest cause So strong.

ISOLANI.

The Devil!--what!--Why, what means this?

Are you not, then--For what, then, am I here?

OCTAVIO.

That you may make full declaration, whether You will be call'd the friend or enemy Of the Emperor.

ISOLANI (_with an air of defiance_).

That declaration, friend, I'll make to him in whom a right is placed To put that question to me.

OCTAVIO.

Whether, Count, That right is mine, this paper may, instruct you.

ISOLANI (_stammering_).

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!

OCTAVIO.

And you submit you to the order?

ISOLANI.

I-- But you have taken me so by surprise-- Time for reflection one _must_ have--

OCTAVIO.

Two minutes.

ISOLANI.

My G.o.d! But then the case is--

OCTAVIO.