Part 233 (1/2)

You're joking now. A beast devoid of reason.

WERNI.

That's easy said. But beasts have reason too-- And that we know, we men that hunt the chamois.

They never turn to feed--sagacious creatures!

Till they have placed a sentinel ahead, Who p.r.i.c.ks his ears whenever we approach, And gives alarm with clear and piercing pipe.

RUODI (to the shepherd).

Are you for home?

KUONI.

The Alp is grazed quite bare.

WERNI.

A safe return, my friend!

KUONI.

The same to you?

Men come not always back from tracks like yours.

RUODI.

But who comes here, running at topmost speed?

WERNI.

I know the man; 'tis Baumgart of Alzellen.

CONRAD BAUMGARTEN (rus.h.i.+ng in breathless).

For G.o.d's sake, ferryman, your boat!

RUODI.

How now?

Why all this haste?

BAUMGARTEN.

Cast off! My life's at stake!

Set me across!

KUONI.

Why, what's the matter, friend?

WERNI.

Who are pursuing you? First tell us that.

BAUMGARTEN (to the fisherman).

Quick, quick, even now they're close upon my heels!

The viceroy's hors.e.m.e.n are in hot pursuit!

I'm a lost man should they lay hands upon me.

RUODI.

Why are the troopers in pursuit of you?