all that is on earth and beside it, by all the almighty secret powers I swear to you that I am innocent! I know not where she is!
(Lukan enters with two guards.)
Scene VII
Rozmberk, Bilent, Lukan and guards. Later Zuzanka, Oldřich and Ctibor.
Rozmberk.—To the dungeon with this criminal (pointing to Bilent). The palace must instantly be closed and nobody must leave it under the penalty of a death sentence. Let every inch of ground be examined from the hills to the breastworks, and if the niece of Hannewaldt is in hiding, let her be brought to me at once.
Lukan.—Your Grace, your commands shall be fulfilled. (Bilent goes away in despair between the guards.)
Rozmberk.—Bilent has betrayed me. He knew at the time we were talking the matter over that she had escaped. (Zuzanka enters.) You helped her get away, you had an understanding with Bilent!
Zuzanka.—I did not see him until he came here with you. But to prove to you how unjust your suspicion is, I came to tell you that I saw her escaping.
Rozmberk.—You know where she is?
Zuzanka.—I do.
Rozmberk.—Where is she now?
Zuzanka.—Just a short time ago, I saw a young woman that looked like Polyxena, dressed in her clothes, fleeing from the castle.
Rozmberk.—Where?
Zuzanka.—To the gates. Most likely, she is trying to save herself or (with emphasis) attempting to take her own life!
Rozmberk.—On my account? On account of this joke? (Calls.) Oldřich, Ctibor! (Rings.) Bring the horses out! (Oldřich and Ctibor enter.)
Rozmberk.—Bring the horses! Whoever will overtake and save Mistress Hannewaldova will receive a hundred ducats!
Zuzanka (Joyously to herself).—All is going well! (Aside to Ctibor.) Ride with the others! I will save Polyxena! (Aloud) Make haste, before any misfortune happens! (Ctibor hurries away.)
Rozmberk.—My wrap!
Zuzanka (Screams).—Good Lord!
