Rozmberk.—Brother, if you are speaking regarding a matter which I have commanded, and with which I am concerned, cease before you incense me even more. I do not desire to be cruel or to be avenged on anyone,—Mistress Polyxena knew before this that she was free. But justice and the right must be observed, though somebody’s head must fall at his feet in the execution of justice.
Zuzanka.—But even I, your Zuzanka, is pleading for him. I myself am more or less to blame for that which has happened. (Aside to Rozmberk.) I feared that you were hiding Polyxena, and incited Ctibor to set her free.
Polyxena (Kneeling before Rozmberk).—Master, be merciful to him who is my betrothed!
Rozmberk (Icily).—You are free, lady, and had better return to your uncle. (Turns away from her.)
Polyxena.—Woe unto us! (Zuzanka steps up to her, talking assuringly while Kinský speaks with Rozmberk.
Zuzanka (Secretly to Polyxena).—Do not fear that you must return to your uncle, I will take you into my own protection.
Kinský.—Master, all for which I have been thus far striving has gone against me and I have failed in my mission. Important and urgent matters hasten my departure for Prague, and I cannot accept your hospitality longer. But in one thing at least, make a concession, and thus give me proof of your friendship.
Rozmberk.—What may it be?
Kinský.—Show mercy toward your relative. For you are his own uncle.
Rozmberk.—For that very reason, his punishment should be the greater.
Kinský.—Tear yourself loose from these perverted thoughts prompted by a strange and evil spirit, which would forever mar for you the beauty and the joy of coming days.
Rozmberk.—From your lips, bitterness is comprehensible.
Kinský.—Pay no attention to the request which I formerly made for my cause. I did not realize my purpose,—and that which hinges upon it, the game played for country and crown. If one remains victorious, then the other must be the loser, and since Hannewaldt has won, it means that I am the loser of the game. But it is true that Hannewaldt has been granted too much at your hands, so that on his account, your own relatives’ lives should be sacrificed, and heads should fall at Třebon.
(Amid the words of Kinský, Polyxena bids Zuzanka farewell.