Rozmberk (Softly).—The blame is not mine. For you must not blame me too severely if I am bewitched with your wonderful beauty and charm. All you may desire will be granted to you if you will stay at the palace for at least a while. My wishes are considered, and my word has weight not only in this kingdom, but in all the surrounding principalities which are not entirely independent of us. And your commands will be considered as readily as my own, Polyxena, if you will only stay to rule my palace with me.

Polyxena (Backing away from him)—Master, my liberty, give me my freedom! Save your dignity, your self respect and mine! You will never gain my consent to this deed!

Rozmberk (Angry and disturbed).—Never, you say? Consider well the power of my command and my word!

Bilent (Enters hastily)—I thank you, Your Grace! I am your faithful servant, and have been at fault in nothing.

Rozmberk.—Save your words. (To Bilent, alone.) Go to your room at once. Follow up the directions which I gave you. (To Polyxena, after Bilent has gone.) Listen my beauty, for my threats as well as my promises will surely be fulfilled. I ask for nothing, lady, except the pleasure of your lovely presence around the palace for a while.

Polyxena (Decidedly).—And were I to lose my very life, I cannot and will not be a victim to your purposes.

Rozmberk.—Never, not even should I threaten you with actual punishment?

Polyxena.—Never! I, Polyxena answer you. But there is one here who remains to avenge me. Release me, I am betrothed!

Rozmberk (Surprised).—Betrothed? Then you reject me because you are pledged to another? Do not deceive yourself, Polyxena, for I am a stern man when my anger is aroused. (From the window of the laboratory the red glow of a flame is seen.)

Polyxena.—Let your anger destroy me if you will, but I shall not change the answer I have given you. (Watches for the opportunity to leap to the door at the left. Rozmberk prevents her.)

Rozmberk.—Do you see that door? (He turns Polyxena around, holding her by the wrist while pointing to the door of the lab-