She meets Hannewaldt who is entering as she is about to leave.)
Scene II
Hannewaldt, Polyxena, Zuzanka, Rozmberk and Kinský
Hannewaldt (Seeing Polyxena about to leave directs Rozmberk’s attention to her.)—Polyxena!
Rozmberk.—She is free to go.
Hannewaldt (Surprised, wondering what has happened for Rozmberk to turn Polyxena away.)—Go to my apartment, Polyxena!
Polyxena (Angrily).—Mr. Hannewaldt, you no longer have the right to command me!
Hannewaldt.—Polyxena!
Polyxena.—Hannewaldt, in the future you are a stranger to me as I am to you. (To him alone.) I have heard of many criminals but I did not expect to find my own uncle the most despicable of them all.
Hannewaldt (to Polyxena, sharply).—Silence, if you do not wish to feel my anger!
Polyxena (Aloud).—Your anger? Just tell me what I can do to arouse it! In the meanwhile, let me assure you that my contempt for you is as great (to him alone) as the miry abyss of your thoughts from which your foul deed has sprung.
Hannewaldt.—Master, do not allow her to speak of me so in your presence.
Rozmberk.—I have heard nothing.
Zuzanka.—The lady is free, and no one will try to place any restraint upon her actions.
Hannewaldt (Surprised by the words of Zuzanka. To himself) So severe toward me? I must separate her from them. (To Polyxena.) Go to my apartment and await me there, and see that you do not call forth the displeasure of the master again.
Polyxena.—I am going to the prison, to confinement with Ctibor who is to lose his life on my account. I go to prison gladly rather than return to you and place myself under your power, and never, never again will I return, though you were to summon all the power that you are able to command! (Walks away.)
