Say, from what regiment hast thou chosen them?

ADJUTANT.

From Tiefenbach's.

OCTAVIO.

That regiment is loyal, Keep them in silence in the inner court, Unseen by all, and when the signal peals Then close the doors, keep watch upon the house.

And all ye meet be instantly arrested.

[Exit ADJUTANT.

I hope indeed I shall not need their service, So certain feel I of my well-laid plans; But when an empire's safety is at stake 'Twere better too much caution than too little.

SCENE V.

A chamber in PICCOLOMINI's dwelling-house: OCTAVIO, PICCOLOMINI, ISOLANI, entering.

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 towards 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 these 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 called 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!--Yes! yes!

I--I give you joy, lieutenant-general!

OCTAVIO.

And you submit 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.

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.

ISOLANI.

Treason! My G.o.d! But who talks then of treason?

OCTAVIO.

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?