Part 28 (1/2)

With a sob in her voice.) Why do you deceive me? You are going forever.

Drahomir.--Have mercy on me.

Stella.--Are you going away forever?

Drahomir.--Yes, then.

Stella.--I guessed it. But perhaps it is better--for both of us.

Drahomir.--Oh, yes. There are things which cannot be expressed, although the heart is bursting. A while ago you told me that you will remember--it will be better for you to forget.

Stella.--I cannot. (She weeps.)

Drahomir (pa.s.sionately).--Then I love you, my dearest, and that is the reason why I escape. (He presses her to his breast.)

Stella (awakening).--Oh, G.o.d! (She rushes, out.)

SCENE IX.

Drahomir. Jozwowicz. George.

(George stops with Jozwowicz near the door.)

Drahomir.--Ah, it is you, George.

George.--Do not approach me. I have seen all. You are a villain and a coward.

Drahomir--George!

George.--In order not to soil my hand, I throw in your face our broken friends.h.i.+p, my trampled happiness, lost faith in G.o.d and man, endless contempt for you and myself.

Drahomir.--Enough.

George.--Do not approach me, because I will lose my self-command and will sprinkle these walls with your brains. No, I shall not do that--because I have promised. But I slap your face, you villain. Do you hear me?

Drahomir (after struggling with himself for a moment).--Such an insult I swear before G.o.d and man I will wash out with blood.

George.--Yes, with blood (pointing to the doctor). Here is the witness of these words.

Doctor.--At your service, gentlemen.

END OF ACT IV.

ACT V.