Kinský.— I cannot believe that you would show any indecision at such a time as this, now that you know what is happening. Why, the whole matter must be welcome to you. Certainly you have not forgotten the slight which you received at the court of Rudolf. (Rozmberk stirs while his face becomes cloudy.) When you were asking for a hearing against your enemies, and after remaining several weeks in Prague, were not even admitted to the king! No other Rozmberk has ever been so treated by a king!

Rozmberk (Shortly).—Stop, Kinský! I have not forgotten—do not remind me now!—(Calmly again.) But I am now concerned about other things than these which touch me personally.

Kinský.—Certainly,—about public affairs. And you must certainly be grateful for that turn which your negotiations have taken with the Hungarian nobility, and first of all with Illezházm of Hungary, with Karl Zerotínem of Moravia, with the duke Kristianem of Anhalt, and Frederick Falckým—with all these, the incomplete league against Rudolf, which only requires your generalship at their head.

Rozmberk.—If you believe that all these whom you have named desire above all things to dethrone the king, I will tell you that I as yet cannot be added to their list.

Kinský.—You can no longer avoid that necessity. I have lately been in the court of Rudolf, I see all that is happening, and I realize that a new power must soon be recognized, that in his place the throne must soon be filled by Matthias.

Rozmberk.—And in whose name have you come to me?

Kinský.—In the name of the Archduke Matthias. (Hands over a letter.) Here is his letter, everything else that you may wish to know is given there.

Rozmberk.—I will read it, and give it careful consideration. (Rising.)

Kinský.—And when may I expect an answer?

Rozmberk.—At present, I cannot say.

Kinský.—I hope, dear sir, to receive it soon.

Oldřich (Entering).—The Honorable Secretary, Hannewaldt, requests a hearing.

(Kinský stirs slightly.)