Part 189 (1/2)

Sell yourself to the enemy? Say, will you?

ISOLANI.

What mean you? I--I break my oath, d'ye say, To his imperial majesty?

Did I say so! When, when have I said that?

OCTAVIO.

You have not said it yet--not yet. This instant I wait to hear, count, whether you will say it.

ISOLANI.

Ay! that delights me now, that you yourself Bear witness for me that I never said so.

OCTAVIO.

And you renounce the duke then?

ISOLANI.

If he's planning Treason--why, treason breaks all bonds asunder.

OCTAVIO.

And are determined, too, to fight against him?

ISOLANI.

He has done me service--but if he's a villain, Perdition seize him! All scores are rubbed off.

OCTAVIO.

I am rejoiced that you are so well disposed.

This night break off in the utmost secrecy With all the light-armed troops--it must appear As came the order from the duke himself.

At Frauenberg's the place of rendezvous; There will Count Gallas give you further orders.

ISOLANI.

It shall be done. But you'll remember me With the emperor--how well disposed you found me.

OCTAVIO.

I will not fail to mention it honorably.

[Exit ISOLANI. A SERVANT enters.

What, Colonel Butler! Show him up.

ISOLANI (returning).

Forgive me too my bearish ways, old father!

Lord G.o.d! how should I know, then, what a great Person I had before me.

OCTAVIO.

No excuses!

ISOLANI.

I am a merry lad, and if at time A rash word might escape me 'gainst the court Amidst my wine,--you know no harm was meant.

OCTAVIO.

You need not be uneasy on that score.