Mrs. Rettig.—That the students alternate the German speeches with others in Bohemian.
Vacek.—And the suggestion has been accepted and we shall surely have larger audiences. (Mrs.Roller and Mrs. Roubínek are astounded.)
Gülich.—But of what sort! It will again be sehr gemischt[1] as it was today, and I don't know ob die Intelligenz—[2]
Mrs. Roller.—And how will it be with the ball of the nobility? I don't know, gentleman, I don't know: the students had better think the matter over.
Vacek.—Lest perchance we shouldn't be invited? O, then, you see, madam, there would be a scarcity of partners, and your beloved daughters couldn't dance much.
Mrs. Roller (As if hurt).—And what if there were not enough young lady patriots there?
Vacek.—Then we will arrange our own Bohemian Ball.
Mrs. Roller.—Das ist nicht möglich!
Gülich.—You would have to obtain permission first.
Vacek.—We will attend to that.
Dance music from the left.
Mrs. Roller (To Mrs. Roubínek).—Do you hear? We must not neglect our daughters.
Mrs. Roubínek.—Nor I my precious husband. (They go out to the left.)
Gülich.—Nor I the steward. But, madam, (forcing himself to assume a humorous tone) all this is a revolution.
Mrs. Rettig.—But an innocent one, and I trust that it will end happily.
Gülich (With a veiled threat)—But for whom! (Goes out on the left.)
Scene VII
Mrs. Rettig, Vacek, Tyny.
Mrs. Rettig (With a smile).—It makes him mad. (To Vacek and Tyny.) But here I have delayed you. (To Vacek.) Thank you for reminding your comrades not to neglect Miss Lenka in the dances.
Tyny.—She will have her fill! She is constantly in the circle.
Mrs. Rettig.—I am glad for the doctor's sake; he himself does not dance and he likes to see Lenka have a good time.
