ACT III.
SCENE I. The stage represents part of the Castle of Spandan, and is arranged as follows : On the left, is a large rock; above which, in the distance, is the Tower. A large grated door opens upon a platform, surrounded by iron railings . — Count L ANISKA is discovered leaning upon them. On the right, is an arched cell, with part of the wall jutting from the side, behind which is a secret door. Above this is a fine view of an open country, and a clear, blue, starlight sky . Sophia is seated in the cell, at a table . — The whole scene is so managed that, while the Audience have a full view of everything, the Prisoners, although they hear, can not see each other. — Time, near midnight. — The curtain rises slowly to music .
DUET — SOPHIA AND COUNT .
SOPHIA .
This gloomy cell is my abode at last;
The sole reward for all my perils past
Tis strange that love within the breast should dwell,
When hope, dejected, bids the heart farewell!
COUNT .
What sounds are these? No human form is near,
And yet that well-known voice I faintly hear,
'T was sure the fancied music of the mind,
Whose breathings mingled with the midnight wind.
BOTH .
Yes! — 'Tis lost! — 'Tis gone! — Hark! it comes again,
Like distant echoes of a melting strain:
In melody {her/his} spirit floats around! —
That voice! — These walls are vocal with the sound.
I hear its music near me still! — 'Tis there!
Sure 't is some gentle spirit of the air! (During the duet, the moon has been gradually rising, and the light falls through the grated windows of the Prison)
JAILOR .
Count Laniska — a friend, with an order from the king.
COUNT .
I attend him.
SOPHIA .
'T was but a dream! — 'T is past, and all is still again!
BRAVURA — SOPHIA .
Hark! 't is the deep-toned midnight bell,
That bids a sad and long farewell
To the departed hour;
How like a dirge its music falls
Within these cold and dreary walls,
Where stern misfortunes lower!
Ah! vainly through these prison-bars
Glide the pale beams of moon and stars,
To cheer this lonely tower;
From evening's close to dawn of day,
Hope's star sheds not a single ray
To light the solemn hour!
Alas! what pangs must guilt conceal,
When innocence like mine can feel
So crushed in such an hour!
I know not whether love be crime —
But if it is, in every clime
'T is woman's fatal dower!
I can find no clew to this most cruel treachery. What fiend in human shape has plotted my destruction? ( Sound of chains — prison-door is unlocked .) Ah! Karl here!
KARL .
Well, Sophia, we meet at last where we can confer without the possibility of interruption. I came to save you.
SOPHIA .
My life would not be worth preserving, owing anything to you.
KARL .
Subdue this unavailing anger, and listen to your friend.
SOPHIA .
Not to you. The enmity of such a man is a tribute paid to honesty. Friend!
KARL .
I came to give you liberty.
SOPHIA .
How?
KARL .
By flight.
SOPHIA .
Where?
KARL .
To Saxony.
SOPHIA .
With whom!
KARL .
The only one who loves you.
SOPHIA .
Name him.
KARL .
Behold him at your feet!
SOPHIA .
What mockery is this? Mark me, Karl: I am a weak, friendless, unprotected girl. If your sex is strong, mine is resolute. Abandon your present designs — give up this useless suit, and cease to persecute the innocent.
KARL .
I have heard you! Now listen to me. You are my destiny.
SOPHIA .
Wretch!
KARL .
I can not and I will not live without you. To secure, if not your love, at least the possession of your person, I have perilled everything. You are mine by right, and I will have my own.
SOPHIA .
Yours by right! —
KARL .
Yes.
SOPHIA .
What right?
KARL .
The king gave you to me.
SOPHIA .
I was not his to give.
KARL .
You were his bondwoman.
SOPHIA .
And his bondwoman spurned you, as she ought!
KARL .
With scorn you did! — I have not forgotten it.
SOPHIA .
And does so now again.
KARL .
You love another!
SOPHIA .
I 'll not deny it.
KARL .
Torture! (Draws his dagger.)
SOPHIA ( greatly terrified .)
Karl, you would not stain this prison-floor with blood!
KARL .
I would, to strike my rival's heart through yours! — But words may make the blow unnecessary. ( Puts up his dagger ) Hear me, Sophia. Till I saw you, I never felt the pangs of love! — I never shed a tear! From manhood's early dawn, my savage nature could not brook reproof; nor friend nor foe had power over me. Your smile alone subdued this callous heart. Sophia, save me! — Save a repentant, wretched man!
SONG — KARL .
(German air.)
Once, mild and gentle was my heart!
My youth from guile was free!
But when love's bonds were torn apart,
What joy had life for me?
No words, no threats could daunt my soul,
My reckless spirit spurned control
Till swayed by smiles from thee!
A wanderer o'er the desert sand,
An outcast on the sea,
An exile from my native land —
What's all the world to me?
Each friend misfortune proved a foe:
I scorned the high — despised the low —
Till swayed by smiles from thee!
HAROLD ( aside .)
I knew that I was right.
ALBERT (aside.)
Silence — on your lives!
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
If it is convenient!
SOPHIA .
It is in vain!
KARL .
Then you must away with me this very night, this very hour, or perish here!
SOPHIA .
Villain, forbear! Oh, help me, Heaven!
KARL
You call in vain! Your doom is sealed! — Die!
WEDGEWOOD .
You lie, you infernal scoundrel!
KARL .
Ha! betrayed! — Have at you, then! ( A struggle ensues between K ARL and W EDGEWOOD , in which the former is overcome, and thrown upon the ground . Sophia rushes into Albert'S arms in great agitation . H AROLD advances to the centre of the stage, and aims his carbine at K ARL . At the same moment , W EDGEWOOD , who has had a desperate struggle with K ARL , exclaims — )
WEDGEWOOD .
Your dagger! your dagger! ( Wrests it from him ) Now yield, or die! — ( Rises, places his foot upon K ARL , and holds the dagger up ) — If it is convenient!
SCENE II.
Another cell in the Castle of Spandau — Enter Count L ANISKA and Jailor.
JAILOR .
Count Laniska, you bear the king's commission, although a prisoner; therefore, while I leave you to examine these papers ( hands papers ,) received from Mr. Worrendorf, I rely upon your honor not to attempt to escape.
COUNT .
Your confidence is not misplaced, believe me. [ Exit Jailor.] — (Looks at papers) My friend is unwearied in my cause. But I am a soldier, and have ever held my life at the disposal of the king. If Sophia were free and happy, I could look upon death with an undaunted spirit. ( Puts up papers ) How like an angel she appeared when last I gazed upon her heavenly face — now glistening with the tear, now radiant with the smile of beauty!
SONG — LANISKA .
The gentle bird on yonder spray,
That sings its little life away;
The rose-bud bursting into flower,
And glittering in the sun and shower;
The cherry-blossom on the tree —
Are emblematic all of thee.
Yon moon that sways the vassal streams,
Like thee in modest beauty beams;
So shines the diamond of the mine,
And the rock-crystal of the brine;
The gems of heaven, the earth and sea,
Are blended, all, dear maid, in thee!
SCENE III An Apartment in the Gallery of Paintings at Sans Souci. Enter Albert and W EDGEWOOD in haste, meeting the Countess L ANISKA .
ALBERT .
Have you seen the king?
COUNTESS .
His Majesty has not yet appeared.
WEDGEWOOD .
A crate of mouldy straw for your warlike government! (Snaps his fingers .) That for your soldier-like system of doing business! I wouldn't give a broken basin for it! Why, the commanding officer has only to say, " Hang me up that tall fellow, like a scarecrow, " and up he goes — tzck! — or, " Give me that short chap the cat-o' nine-tails, " and, whack, he has it — or, " Shoot me yonder half-dozen specimens of humanity, " and, bang, 't is done!
ALBERT .
If the king would but listen to reason —
WEDGEWOOD .
Ay, but he won't! I never saw such a resolute old curmudgeon; and then he's so proud, too! He's like a hard-baked stone jar — he won't bend anyhow. I know why he gave me his snuff-box: it was because I happened to help myself to a pinch out of the dirty old trumpery! If he, or you, or all of you, by any chance happened to live in England, or any other civilized country, this poor count, and the girl too, would have an impartial hearing before they were condemned
COUNTESS .
But under this government we have blessings unknown to yours —
WEDGEWOOD .
But me no buts, madam! Give me the blessings of living under a government where no man can be condemned without a fair trial by jury, madam. To you Prussians, this is a matter of favor; but to us Englishmen, it is a matter of right!
COUNTESS .
Would to Heaven that my son and this poor girl could have such a trial! —
ALBERT .
And would to Heaven I might plead their cause! ( The King, who has paid great attention to their conversation, walks down the stage, and suddenly stands in the midst of them. They all start, and fall back)
KING
On one condition you shall —
OMNES .
The king!
KING .
On one condition, young man, your prayer shall be granted.
ALBERT .
Name it, sire —
KING .
If you fail to convince the judges of their innocence, that you shall share their punishment. Do you agree?
ALBERT .
I do, and set my life upon the issue.
KING .
Your life shall answer for it if you fail. ( To H AROLD ) Give orders that the hall of the castle be immediately prepared for the trial. Use despatch, Harold! [ Exit H AROLD ] ( To the Countess) You, madam, I believe to be wholly ignorant of your son's treachery.
COUNTESS .
If he be guilty —
KING
If he be guilty, madam?
COUNTESS .
Yes, sire; if he has forgotten what Your Majesty has done for Poland, he is no son of mine!
KING .
I shall spare you all the reflections I have made on the subject, madam. Tyrant as I am, I shall not punish the innocent mother for the guilty son. But perhaps this gentleman [Albert ] and you [W EDGEWOOD ] recommended trial —
WEDGEWOOD .
Trial by jury! Your Majesty has said it! There's freedom in the very words!
KING .
How is it to be managed?
WEDGEWOOD .
Managed, Your Majesty? Why, according to law and justice.
KING .
Good!
WEDGEWOOD .
Twelve honest, upright, free, and independent men are empanelled to hear the case —
KING
Good again!
WEDGEWOOD .
All the witnesses are examined, and all the testimony fairly summed up by learned counsel!
KING .
Excellent!
WEDGEWOOD .
Then the grave expounders of the law — the judges — charge the jury, who, upon their oaths, return a verdict —
KING .
A glorious institution!
WEDGEWOOD .
The shield and protection of the rights of man — the bulwark of civil and religious liberty — and the admiration of the whole civilized world! Democratically odd!
KING .
Well — well — well — so justice be done, I care not for the means.
WEDGEWOOD .
By jingo, he's genuine porcelain! It's all right — fair, square, and above board — a clear field and no favor!
HAROLD .
Everything is in preparation. The judges are proceeding to their seats; the jury will soon be sworn, and the prisoners arraigned at the bar —
WEDGEWOOD
Who's the crier of the court?
HAROLD .
That office is not yet filled.
WEDGEWOOD .
That won't do — Illegally odd!
KING .
Perhaps, Mr. Wedgewood, you would like the appointment yourself?
WEDGEWOOD .
If it is convenient.
KING .
I confer it upon you.
WEDGEWOOD .
Thank Your Majesty. By Jove, we're sailing with wind and tide — a smooth sea below and a clear sky above us!
KING .
Well, gentlemen, I wish you a prosperous voyage; but take care that you do not run your vessel upon the rocks of litigation, and founder among the quicksands of the law.
WEDGEWOOD .
No danger, Your Majesty, with such a pilot! [Albert .] — ( Sudden and loud shouts and confused noise without. Drums beat to arms .) What is the meaning of all this commotion?
KING .
Out with it, Harold!
HAROLD .
The rumor of the treachery and ingratitude of the prisoners has spread like wildfire throughout the city —
KING .
Well! —
HAROLD .
The populace are in a ferment at the indignity offered to our beloved monarch, and demand the instant execution of the prisoners.
KING .
Well, well; say on.
HAROLD .
The multitude crowd every avenue to the palace, and the chateau of the countess; and the royal guards are under arms to preserve the public peace.
KING .
So, so, so, so —
COUNTESS .
O Heaven! what will become of us?
KING ( proudly ).
Have you not the king's protection? I will appear among my children, who are so apprehensive about my safety, that they sometimes forget themselves, and become a little unruly. They will be satisfied when they hear and see their father. ( Seeing the Countess look dejected .) Do not droop, madam; your guilty son shall have a fair and impartial trial. ( Taking her hand. — To Albert sternly .) Look to it, sir; for if you fail, you know what follows! ( Exit F REDERICK and Countess — Immense cheering and beating of drums without .)
WEDGEWOOD .
Bravo! He 's a trump — Bless me! a popular commotion! — No matter — I am crier of the court! Let me catch any of the little boys making a noise in the halls of justice — that's all! I'll make the king himself mind his P's and Q's, if he dare to interfere with our grave deliberations! I will act as becomes my station. His Majesty has a jewel in me, and I'll convince him that authority in my hands is a knock-down argument — so-fist-ically odd!
SONG — WEDGEWOOD .
That law's the perfection of reason,
No one in his senses denies;
Yet here is a trial for treason
Will puzzle the wigs of the wise
The lawyers who bring on the action
On no single point will agree,
Though proved to their own satisfaction
That tweedle-dum's not tweedle-dee!
To settle disputes, in a fury
The sword from the scabbard we draw;
But reason appeals to a jury,
And settles — according to law
Then hey for the woolsack! — for never
Without it can nations be free;
But trial by jury for ever!
And for tyranny — fiddle-de-dee!
SCENE THE LAST.
Discovered. The whole stage is thrown open, and represents the Hall of the Palace at Potsdam, arranged as a court-room. On a carpeted platform is the royal seat of state, occupied by three Judges. On the right and left of them are cushioned seats for the King and his retinue, and Officers of state. In front of the judgment-seat is a large centre-table, on which are various law-books and the Prussian Vase. Around the table are suitable places for the Advocates in the cause. On each side are elevated benches, occupied by the Girls of the Factory, behind whom are stationed platoons of the Royal Guards. At the end of the benches on the right is the jury-box, with twelve Jurors, and the desk of the Crier, on which is a small mallet. Around the whole stage is a large gallery, crowded with the Citizens of Potsdam — The entire scene is intended to represent an English Criminal Court of Law of the olden time, in full costume, with scarlet robes, ermine gowns, etc. — The following Characters are discovered in their respective places: Baron A LIENBERG , the Attorney-General and Advocate for the Crown; the Workmen of the Factory, as Witnesses; the Jailor, H ANS , G ERTRUDE , H AROLD , and Corporal; Count L ANISKA , guarded, attended by the Countess and F REDERICA ; Sophia M ANSFIELD , guarded, and attended by Factory-Girls; Albert , as Advocate for the Prisoners, and W EDGEWOOD , as Crier of the Court; Officers of state , Ladies of the Court , Porters of the Hall, and the King. — This scene is accompanied by the Orchestra. — Music as the scene opens —
CHORUS .
With mercy let justice
To mortals be given,
For Justice and Mercy
Are twin-born of heaven!
WEDGEWOOD .
Silence in the court!
ALTENBERG .
May it please your lordships, these facts are not denied: the inscription in the handwriting of the count; his free access to the factory; his frequent use of the word tyrant when speaking of the king; his earnest interest in the Saxon maid; her love for the count, and her opposition to the will of our most gracious sovereign for allotting her to the overseer as his bride: and they all unite in establishing their crime, the punishment of which is death . Had not His Majesty chanced to wipe off, with his own handkerchief, the blue paint which concealed the word tyrant , the vase would have been sent to Paris, the king and people disgraced, and the criminals safe in Saxony. Yes, gentlemen ( to the Jury,) this splendid ornament, which is to be known to all future ages as " The Prussian Vase, " is defaced with the treasonable inscription — " To Frederick the Great Tyrant. "
KING
Yes, soldiers and subjects, friends and children, this word is applied to me — to your father — by these base ingrates here! —
CHORUS .
Shame, shame, shame!
Long live the king! etc.
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court, or I 'll put you in the stocks, juvenile delinquents and all! What an odd people!
KING .
I beg the indulgence of your lordships for my infirmities of temper. Let the cause proceed. ( Takes his seat .)
JUDGE .
The case for the crown, gentlemen, is fully before you, and is submitted in the confidence that you will discharge your duty faithfully.
KING .
Ay, discharge your duty faithfully!
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court, Your Majesty!
JUDGE .
Let the counsel for the prisoners now proceed.
ALBERT .
Place Karl in the witness-box.
SOLO AND CHORUS .
KARL .
What outrage more, at whose command
Am I thus shackled and restrained? —
What mockery 's this? In this free land
The subject's rights should be maintained.
CHORUS .
The traitor braves the king's command!
KARL .
Those whom the lion would ensnare,
Should of his reckless fangs beware!
The forest-monarch, held at bay,
Will turn and spring upon his prey!
CHORUS .
Thus bold will guilt full oft appear! —
The sword of Justice let him fear!
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court!
CHORUS .
With mercy let justice
To mortals be given;
For Mercy and Justice
Are twin-born of heaven.
KARL .
Why am I summoned here against my will?
ALBERT .
You are here to answer, not to question, sirrah!
KARL .
By what authority do you command my answers? In these realms the king alone commands.
KING
That's true — that's very true — the king alone commands —
WEDGEWOOD
What, Your Majesty — you will — will you?
KING .
Oh, I have forgotten myself again! ( Takes his seat .) Confound the fellow!
KARL
The king here? Then I have one friend at least on whom I may rely. ( To King .) Shall I — may I speak freely?
KING .
The king has no authority now. ( Pointing to the jury-box .) There are the sovereigns of the people, and to them you must appeal. ( Aside .) What a situation for a monarch!
ALBERT .
You know you Saxon maid and the Count Laniska?
KARL .
I do, and hate the count!
ALBERT .
Wherefore?
KARL .
He has thwarted my designs! — No, no, I mean not that! I mean that I hate him because he plotted treason against the king, and wrote " Tyrant " upon the vase.
ALBERT .
Did he write it?
KARL .
He did — these eyes beheld him.
COUNT
The perjured caitiff!
SOPHIA .
O Heaven, have mercy upon us!
COUNTESS .
They are lost!
(Countess leans on F REDERICA . The King beckons to H AROLD , who goes to him. They engage in earnest conversation, occasionally pointing to K ARL . H AROLD is supposed to be informing him of the arrest of K ARL in Sophia'S cell K ARL leaves the witness-box, and is about to retire, but is stopped by H AROLD .)
ALBERT .
Call the German inn-keeper to the stand.
KARL
I tremble with apprehension!
ALBERT
You deal in colors — do you not?
HANS .
Yaw, mynheer.
ALBERT .
Have you sold any in Berlin lately?
HANS .
Yaw, mynheer; I sold some of der Prussian blue to der Hungarian overseer of der factory, who gave me monish to say notting about it. He tried der quality upon dis little scrap of baper, vich he forgot, and vich I kept, mit der intention of giving him back ven I saw him again. It is scrawled all over mit der word " Tyrant "
KARL
That paper's mine — give it me!
WEDGEWOOD
It's not convenient!
ALBERT .
An attempt to imitate the handwriting of the count. Compare it with the word upon the vase.
JUDGE .
It is the same!
CHORUS .
Huzza! huzza! etc.
WEDGEWOOD ( forgetting himself, after the chorus has finished, shouts out at the top of his voice ,) Huzza! — ( which the King observing, rises to call him to order; when W EDGEWOOD , noticing the King, places his hand upon his own mouth; and looking round, and holding his mallet in a threatening manner over K ARL , who is silent, by way of excusing his mistake, says ) — But silence in the court! ( The King, shaking his finger at W EDGEWOOD , takes his seat ; H ANS leaves the box .)
ALBERT .
Place that workman on the stand.
Did you ever see this vase before?
WORKMAN .
Yes, sir.
ALBERT .
Where?
WORKMAN .
I saw Karl receive it for the furnace, and I saw him marking upon it with a sharp instrument, which he suddenly hid in his bosom. (K ARL feels for his dagger, and half draws it, looking at Sophia ferociously . Sophia observes him narrowly, and with great apprehension .)
ALBERT .
Who took the vase from the furnace?
WORKMAN .
Karl.
ALBERT .
Who had possession of it afterward?
WORKMAN .
Karl.
ALBERT .
Who pointed out the word " Tyrant " to the king at the fête of the countess?
KING
Karl!
ALBERT .
Who has misled, blinded, and deceived the king?
KING
Traitorous, fiendlike Karl!
KARL
I am stunned with horror!
KING
By your leave, Mr. Wedgewood.
CHORUS
Long live the king! etc.
(The King takes his station in the centre of the stage, and lifts his hat.)
KING .
If the court please —
WEDGEWOOD
Bravo! His Majesty is becoming a principal witness! (In a subdued tone of voice.) Silence in the court! — The king speaks!
KING
I see it all! The case is clear. Karl had my permission to espouse Sophia. She refused him Laniska loved her. Karl hated him, and planned her destruction; visited her in prison; tried to force her to fly the country with him; she refused, and he would have slain her, had not Mr. Wedgewood, the Advocate, and Harold — who has just told me all — struck him to the ground. Karl plotted this mischief — Karl bought the paint — Karl wrote the word — and Karl shall DIE !
KARL
But not not unavenged! (He darts toward Sophia , and makes an attempt to stab her . Sophia shrieks, and runs to L ANISKA . All the Characters rise, greatly excited, and watch the scene with deep interest. The Guards present their pikes to the breast of K ARL , who is seized by H AROLD and Corporal — in the brief struggle with whom , K ARL'S shirt-sleeve is torn open, and the felon's brand is discovered on his arm. To this Albert points in triumph — Tableau. — The whole action is instantaneous )
HAROLD
Behold, my liege, the felon's brand! ( Presto! — all start with astonishment )
CHORUS .
Now, who's the traitor?
QUINTETTE AND CHORUS .
KARL .
The javelin from an unseen hand
Was sent that laid me low! —
Behold exposed the felon's brand
Unto my mortal foe!
CHORUS .
Who's now the traitor? etc.
JUDGE
What say the jury?
FOREMAN
The prisoners are innocent! ( Presto! — all start with joy .)
CHORUS .
The prisoners are innocent! etc. (Some of the Characters clasp their hands — others embrace . Sophia and L ANISKA turn to Albert , and the Countess and F REDERICA to the King, in gratitude .)
KARL .
Oh, rage and fury!
CHORUS .
Rejoice! our loyal hearts we bring
As free-will offerings to the king!
SOLO — SOPHIA TO KING .
Oh, let me to thy ermine cling
In gratitude, (kneels,) God bless the king!
CHORUS .
God save the king!
Long live the king! etc. ( The Workmen and Girls of the Factory , Advocates, Officers, Soldiers, Ladies and Gentlemen, Spectators, and all the Characters on the stage, indicate by appropriate and spontaneous action the deep and intense interest they take in the verdict . — K ARL gasps and faints, and is supported by H AROLD and Corporal. — W EDGEWOOD notices the tableau with great self-complacency — [ The whole action is simultaneous ] — K ARL is borne off by H AROLD and Corporal. All the Characters then turn, and by looks and actions congratulate each other, and the scene instantly becomes one of general joy .)
KING .
This court is now dissolved. ( The principal Characters leave their stations; and all the Parties, except the Judges and those in the gallery, come upon the stage. — To the Judges.) Your lordships must pardon all irregularities. This is the first trial by jury that ever took place in Prussia. Hereafter, no human power shall interrupt your grave deliberations. ( To Count L ANISKA .) Count Laniska, I took your sword from you this morning: I here present you mine. (Count kneels, and receives it .)
COUNT .
This, with my life, I dedicate to Your Majesty's service!
KING
As for you, sir, the sword, is not your weapon. (H AROLD advances with a golden pen upon a velvet cushion . Albert kneels .) Receive this emblem of far greater power than all the implements of war, and wield it for the benefit of mankind. Rise, Baron — —
ALBERT .
Mansfield, Your Majesty —
KING
Mansfield?
SOPHIA .
My heart was not deceived! My long-lost brother!
ALBERT
My dear, dear sister!
KING
So, so, so! Oh, what an old fool I have been! (Looking around) Come hither, Sophia. (She advances; the King takes her hand.) I owe you some amends for your long and patient suffering on my account ( taking the Count's hand ) — and thus I make them. (Sophia and L ANISKA join hands joyfully .) How well the criminals understand each other! (Rubbing his hands, and walking joyfully about the stage.) Ah, Mr. Wedgewood, I don't care if I take a pinch of snuff out of that same box I gave you the other day.
WEDGEWOOD
Your Majesty has added to its value a diamond worth all the rest, in finding it is large enough for two of us.
KING .
Good! ( Notices F REDERICA .) What! Frederica, my fair namesake and little god-daughter — in the dumps? ( Looking at Albert ) Oh, I understand. ( To Countess.) By your leave, madam. ( Hands F REDERICA to Albert .) You perceive, Mr. Wedgewood, that I have a large family to look after and provide for; but I am a happy father, sir — mine are good children, very good children! I wish I had more like these.
WEDGEWOOD
If Your Majesty goes on in this way, there'll be plenty more — in time .
KING .
All are now satisfied — at least I hope all are so here. ( To the audience ) If, as a king, I may, on another occasion, command an audience —
WEDGEWOOD ( forgetting himself, lifting his mallet and flourishing it like an auctioneer .)
Going! ( Recollecting himself ) — I mean — ( slowly and with gravity ) — s — i — l — e — n — c — e i — n t — h — e c — o — u — r — t!
KING .
These witnesses will, I am sure, attend the next trial of T HE M AID OF S AXONY —
WEDGEWOOD.
If it is convenient.
FINALE
Our hearts are bounding with delight!
'Tis Freedom's jubilee!
For right has triumphed over might —
The bond again are free!
Hurrah! — hurrah!
Let the welkin ring!
To Justice and Liberty
Paeans we sing!
SCENE I. The stage represents part of the Castle of Spandan, and is arranged as follows : On the left, is a large rock; above which, in the distance, is the Tower. A large grated door opens upon a platform, surrounded by iron railings . — Count L ANISKA is discovered leaning upon them. On the right, is an arched cell, with part of the wall jutting from the side, behind which is a secret door. Above this is a fine view of an open country, and a clear, blue, starlight sky . Sophia is seated in the cell, at a table . — The whole scene is so managed that, while the Audience have a full view of everything, the Prisoners, although they hear, can not see each other. — Time, near midnight. — The curtain rises slowly to music .
DUET — SOPHIA AND COUNT .
SOPHIA .
This gloomy cell is my abode at last;
The sole reward for all my perils past
Tis strange that love within the breast should dwell,
When hope, dejected, bids the heart farewell!
COUNT .
What sounds are these? No human form is near,
And yet that well-known voice I faintly hear,
'T was sure the fancied music of the mind,
Whose breathings mingled with the midnight wind.
BOTH .
Yes! — 'Tis lost! — 'Tis gone! — Hark! it comes again,
Like distant echoes of a melting strain:
In melody {her/his} spirit floats around! —
That voice! — These walls are vocal with the sound.
I hear its music near me still! — 'Tis there!
Sure 't is some gentle spirit of the air! (During the duet, the moon has been gradually rising, and the light falls through the grated windows of the Prison)
JAILOR .
Count Laniska — a friend, with an order from the king.
COUNT .
I attend him.
SOPHIA .
'T was but a dream! — 'T is past, and all is still again!
BRAVURA — SOPHIA .
Hark! 't is the deep-toned midnight bell,
That bids a sad and long farewell
To the departed hour;
How like a dirge its music falls
Within these cold and dreary walls,
Where stern misfortunes lower!
Ah! vainly through these prison-bars
Glide the pale beams of moon and stars,
To cheer this lonely tower;
From evening's close to dawn of day,
Hope's star sheds not a single ray
To light the solemn hour!
Alas! what pangs must guilt conceal,
When innocence like mine can feel
So crushed in such an hour!
I know not whether love be crime —
But if it is, in every clime
'T is woman's fatal dower!
I can find no clew to this most cruel treachery. What fiend in human shape has plotted my destruction? ( Sound of chains — prison-door is unlocked .) Ah! Karl here!
KARL .
Well, Sophia, we meet at last where we can confer without the possibility of interruption. I came to save you.
SOPHIA .
My life would not be worth preserving, owing anything to you.
KARL .
Subdue this unavailing anger, and listen to your friend.
SOPHIA .
Not to you. The enmity of such a man is a tribute paid to honesty. Friend!
KARL .
I came to give you liberty.
SOPHIA .
How?
KARL .
By flight.
SOPHIA .
Where?
KARL .
To Saxony.
SOPHIA .
With whom!
KARL .
The only one who loves you.
SOPHIA .
Name him.
KARL .
Behold him at your feet!
SOPHIA .
What mockery is this? Mark me, Karl: I am a weak, friendless, unprotected girl. If your sex is strong, mine is resolute. Abandon your present designs — give up this useless suit, and cease to persecute the innocent.
KARL .
I have heard you! Now listen to me. You are my destiny.
SOPHIA .
Wretch!
KARL .
I can not and I will not live without you. To secure, if not your love, at least the possession of your person, I have perilled everything. You are mine by right, and I will have my own.
SOPHIA .
Yours by right! —
KARL .
Yes.
SOPHIA .
What right?
KARL .
The king gave you to me.
SOPHIA .
I was not his to give.
KARL .
You were his bondwoman.
SOPHIA .
And his bondwoman spurned you, as she ought!
KARL .
With scorn you did! — I have not forgotten it.
SOPHIA .
And does so now again.
KARL .
You love another!
SOPHIA .
I 'll not deny it.
KARL .
Torture! (Draws his dagger.)
SOPHIA ( greatly terrified .)
Karl, you would not stain this prison-floor with blood!
KARL .
I would, to strike my rival's heart through yours! — But words may make the blow unnecessary. ( Puts up his dagger ) Hear me, Sophia. Till I saw you, I never felt the pangs of love! — I never shed a tear! From manhood's early dawn, my savage nature could not brook reproof; nor friend nor foe had power over me. Your smile alone subdued this callous heart. Sophia, save me! — Save a repentant, wretched man!
SONG — KARL .
(German air.)
Once, mild and gentle was my heart!
My youth from guile was free!
But when love's bonds were torn apart,
What joy had life for me?
No words, no threats could daunt my soul,
My reckless spirit spurned control
Till swayed by smiles from thee!
A wanderer o'er the desert sand,
An outcast on the sea,
An exile from my native land —
What's all the world to me?
Each friend misfortune proved a foe:
I scorned the high — despised the low —
Till swayed by smiles from thee!
HAROLD ( aside .)
I knew that I was right.
ALBERT (aside.)
Silence — on your lives!
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
If it is convenient!
SOPHIA .
It is in vain!
KARL .
Then you must away with me this very night, this very hour, or perish here!
SOPHIA .
Villain, forbear! Oh, help me, Heaven!
KARL
You call in vain! Your doom is sealed! — Die!
WEDGEWOOD .
You lie, you infernal scoundrel!
KARL .
Ha! betrayed! — Have at you, then! ( A struggle ensues between K ARL and W EDGEWOOD , in which the former is overcome, and thrown upon the ground . Sophia rushes into Albert'S arms in great agitation . H AROLD advances to the centre of the stage, and aims his carbine at K ARL . At the same moment , W EDGEWOOD , who has had a desperate struggle with K ARL , exclaims — )
WEDGEWOOD .
Your dagger! your dagger! ( Wrests it from him ) Now yield, or die! — ( Rises, places his foot upon K ARL , and holds the dagger up ) — If it is convenient!
SCENE II.
Another cell in the Castle of Spandau — Enter Count L ANISKA and Jailor.
JAILOR .
Count Laniska, you bear the king's commission, although a prisoner; therefore, while I leave you to examine these papers ( hands papers ,) received from Mr. Worrendorf, I rely upon your honor not to attempt to escape.
COUNT .
Your confidence is not misplaced, believe me. [ Exit Jailor.] — (Looks at papers) My friend is unwearied in my cause. But I am a soldier, and have ever held my life at the disposal of the king. If Sophia were free and happy, I could look upon death with an undaunted spirit. ( Puts up papers ) How like an angel she appeared when last I gazed upon her heavenly face — now glistening with the tear, now radiant with the smile of beauty!
SONG — LANISKA .
The gentle bird on yonder spray,
That sings its little life away;
The rose-bud bursting into flower,
And glittering in the sun and shower;
The cherry-blossom on the tree —
Are emblematic all of thee.
Yon moon that sways the vassal streams,
Like thee in modest beauty beams;
So shines the diamond of the mine,
And the rock-crystal of the brine;
The gems of heaven, the earth and sea,
Are blended, all, dear maid, in thee!
SCENE III An Apartment in the Gallery of Paintings at Sans Souci. Enter Albert and W EDGEWOOD in haste, meeting the Countess L ANISKA .
ALBERT .
Have you seen the king?
COUNTESS .
His Majesty has not yet appeared.
WEDGEWOOD .
A crate of mouldy straw for your warlike government! (Snaps his fingers .) That for your soldier-like system of doing business! I wouldn't give a broken basin for it! Why, the commanding officer has only to say, " Hang me up that tall fellow, like a scarecrow, " and up he goes — tzck! — or, " Give me that short chap the cat-o' nine-tails, " and, whack, he has it — or, " Shoot me yonder half-dozen specimens of humanity, " and, bang, 't is done!
ALBERT .
If the king would but listen to reason —
WEDGEWOOD .
Ay, but he won't! I never saw such a resolute old curmudgeon; and then he's so proud, too! He's like a hard-baked stone jar — he won't bend anyhow. I know why he gave me his snuff-box: it was because I happened to help myself to a pinch out of the dirty old trumpery! If he, or you, or all of you, by any chance happened to live in England, or any other civilized country, this poor count, and the girl too, would have an impartial hearing before they were condemned
COUNTESS .
But under this government we have blessings unknown to yours —
WEDGEWOOD .
But me no buts, madam! Give me the blessings of living under a government where no man can be condemned without a fair trial by jury, madam. To you Prussians, this is a matter of favor; but to us Englishmen, it is a matter of right!
COUNTESS .
Would to Heaven that my son and this poor girl could have such a trial! —
ALBERT .
And would to Heaven I might plead their cause! ( The King, who has paid great attention to their conversation, walks down the stage, and suddenly stands in the midst of them. They all start, and fall back)
KING
On one condition you shall —
OMNES .
The king!
KING .
On one condition, young man, your prayer shall be granted.
ALBERT .
Name it, sire —
KING .
If you fail to convince the judges of their innocence, that you shall share their punishment. Do you agree?
ALBERT .
I do, and set my life upon the issue.
KING .
Your life shall answer for it if you fail. ( To H AROLD ) Give orders that the hall of the castle be immediately prepared for the trial. Use despatch, Harold! [ Exit H AROLD ] ( To the Countess) You, madam, I believe to be wholly ignorant of your son's treachery.
COUNTESS .
If he be guilty —
KING
If he be guilty, madam?
COUNTESS .
Yes, sire; if he has forgotten what Your Majesty has done for Poland, he is no son of mine!
KING .
I shall spare you all the reflections I have made on the subject, madam. Tyrant as I am, I shall not punish the innocent mother for the guilty son. But perhaps this gentleman [Albert ] and you [W EDGEWOOD ] recommended trial —
WEDGEWOOD .
Trial by jury! Your Majesty has said it! There's freedom in the very words!
KING .
How is it to be managed?
WEDGEWOOD .
Managed, Your Majesty? Why, according to law and justice.
KING .
Good!
WEDGEWOOD .
Twelve honest, upright, free, and independent men are empanelled to hear the case —
KING
Good again!
WEDGEWOOD .
All the witnesses are examined, and all the testimony fairly summed up by learned counsel!
KING .
Excellent!
WEDGEWOOD .
Then the grave expounders of the law — the judges — charge the jury, who, upon their oaths, return a verdict —
KING .
A glorious institution!
WEDGEWOOD .
The shield and protection of the rights of man — the bulwark of civil and religious liberty — and the admiration of the whole civilized world! Democratically odd!
KING .
Well — well — well — so justice be done, I care not for the means.
WEDGEWOOD .
By jingo, he's genuine porcelain! It's all right — fair, square, and above board — a clear field and no favor!
HAROLD .
Everything is in preparation. The judges are proceeding to their seats; the jury will soon be sworn, and the prisoners arraigned at the bar —
WEDGEWOOD
Who's the crier of the court?
HAROLD .
That office is not yet filled.
WEDGEWOOD .
That won't do — Illegally odd!
KING .
Perhaps, Mr. Wedgewood, you would like the appointment yourself?
WEDGEWOOD .
If it is convenient.
KING .
I confer it upon you.
WEDGEWOOD .
Thank Your Majesty. By Jove, we're sailing with wind and tide — a smooth sea below and a clear sky above us!
KING .
Well, gentlemen, I wish you a prosperous voyage; but take care that you do not run your vessel upon the rocks of litigation, and founder among the quicksands of the law.
WEDGEWOOD .
No danger, Your Majesty, with such a pilot! [Albert .] — ( Sudden and loud shouts and confused noise without. Drums beat to arms .) What is the meaning of all this commotion?
KING .
Out with it, Harold!
HAROLD .
The rumor of the treachery and ingratitude of the prisoners has spread like wildfire throughout the city —
KING .
Well! —
HAROLD .
The populace are in a ferment at the indignity offered to our beloved monarch, and demand the instant execution of the prisoners.
KING .
Well, well; say on.
HAROLD .
The multitude crowd every avenue to the palace, and the chateau of the countess; and the royal guards are under arms to preserve the public peace.
KING .
So, so, so, so —
COUNTESS .
O Heaven! what will become of us?
KING ( proudly ).
Have you not the king's protection? I will appear among my children, who are so apprehensive about my safety, that they sometimes forget themselves, and become a little unruly. They will be satisfied when they hear and see their father. ( Seeing the Countess look dejected .) Do not droop, madam; your guilty son shall have a fair and impartial trial. ( Taking her hand. — To Albert sternly .) Look to it, sir; for if you fail, you know what follows! ( Exit F REDERICK and Countess — Immense cheering and beating of drums without .)
WEDGEWOOD .
Bravo! He 's a trump — Bless me! a popular commotion! — No matter — I am crier of the court! Let me catch any of the little boys making a noise in the halls of justice — that's all! I'll make the king himself mind his P's and Q's, if he dare to interfere with our grave deliberations! I will act as becomes my station. His Majesty has a jewel in me, and I'll convince him that authority in my hands is a knock-down argument — so-fist-ically odd!
SONG — WEDGEWOOD .
That law's the perfection of reason,
No one in his senses denies;
Yet here is a trial for treason
Will puzzle the wigs of the wise
The lawyers who bring on the action
On no single point will agree,
Though proved to their own satisfaction
That tweedle-dum's not tweedle-dee!
To settle disputes, in a fury
The sword from the scabbard we draw;
But reason appeals to a jury,
And settles — according to law
Then hey for the woolsack! — for never
Without it can nations be free;
But trial by jury for ever!
And for tyranny — fiddle-de-dee!
SCENE THE LAST.
Discovered. The whole stage is thrown open, and represents the Hall of the Palace at Potsdam, arranged as a court-room. On a carpeted platform is the royal seat of state, occupied by three Judges. On the right and left of them are cushioned seats for the King and his retinue, and Officers of state. In front of the judgment-seat is a large centre-table, on which are various law-books and the Prussian Vase. Around the table are suitable places for the Advocates in the cause. On each side are elevated benches, occupied by the Girls of the Factory, behind whom are stationed platoons of the Royal Guards. At the end of the benches on the right is the jury-box, with twelve Jurors, and the desk of the Crier, on which is a small mallet. Around the whole stage is a large gallery, crowded with the Citizens of Potsdam — The entire scene is intended to represent an English Criminal Court of Law of the olden time, in full costume, with scarlet robes, ermine gowns, etc. — The following Characters are discovered in their respective places: Baron A LIENBERG , the Attorney-General and Advocate for the Crown; the Workmen of the Factory, as Witnesses; the Jailor, H ANS , G ERTRUDE , H AROLD , and Corporal; Count L ANISKA , guarded, attended by the Countess and F REDERICA ; Sophia M ANSFIELD , guarded, and attended by Factory-Girls; Albert , as Advocate for the Prisoners, and W EDGEWOOD , as Crier of the Court; Officers of state , Ladies of the Court , Porters of the Hall, and the King. — This scene is accompanied by the Orchestra. — Music as the scene opens —
CHORUS .
With mercy let justice
To mortals be given,
For Justice and Mercy
Are twin-born of heaven!
WEDGEWOOD .
Silence in the court!
ALTENBERG .
May it please your lordships, these facts are not denied: the inscription in the handwriting of the count; his free access to the factory; his frequent use of the word tyrant when speaking of the king; his earnest interest in the Saxon maid; her love for the count, and her opposition to the will of our most gracious sovereign for allotting her to the overseer as his bride: and they all unite in establishing their crime, the punishment of which is death . Had not His Majesty chanced to wipe off, with his own handkerchief, the blue paint which concealed the word tyrant , the vase would have been sent to Paris, the king and people disgraced, and the criminals safe in Saxony. Yes, gentlemen ( to the Jury,) this splendid ornament, which is to be known to all future ages as " The Prussian Vase, " is defaced with the treasonable inscription — " To Frederick the Great Tyrant. "
KING
Yes, soldiers and subjects, friends and children, this word is applied to me — to your father — by these base ingrates here! —
CHORUS .
Shame, shame, shame!
Long live the king! etc.
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court, or I 'll put you in the stocks, juvenile delinquents and all! What an odd people!
KING .
I beg the indulgence of your lordships for my infirmities of temper. Let the cause proceed. ( Takes his seat .)
JUDGE .
The case for the crown, gentlemen, is fully before you, and is submitted in the confidence that you will discharge your duty faithfully.
KING .
Ay, discharge your duty faithfully!
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court, Your Majesty!
JUDGE .
Let the counsel for the prisoners now proceed.
ALBERT .
Place Karl in the witness-box.
SOLO AND CHORUS .
KARL .
What outrage more, at whose command
Am I thus shackled and restrained? —
What mockery 's this? In this free land
The subject's rights should be maintained.
CHORUS .
The traitor braves the king's command!
KARL .
Those whom the lion would ensnare,
Should of his reckless fangs beware!
The forest-monarch, held at bay,
Will turn and spring upon his prey!
CHORUS .
Thus bold will guilt full oft appear! —
The sword of Justice let him fear!
WEDGEWOOD
Silence in the court!
CHORUS .
With mercy let justice
To mortals be given;
For Mercy and Justice
Are twin-born of heaven.
KARL .
Why am I summoned here against my will?
ALBERT .
You are here to answer, not to question, sirrah!
KARL .
By what authority do you command my answers? In these realms the king alone commands.
KING
That's true — that's very true — the king alone commands —
WEDGEWOOD
What, Your Majesty — you will — will you?
KING .
Oh, I have forgotten myself again! ( Takes his seat .) Confound the fellow!
KARL
The king here? Then I have one friend at least on whom I may rely. ( To King .) Shall I — may I speak freely?
KING .
The king has no authority now. ( Pointing to the jury-box .) There are the sovereigns of the people, and to them you must appeal. ( Aside .) What a situation for a monarch!
ALBERT .
You know you Saxon maid and the Count Laniska?
KARL .
I do, and hate the count!
ALBERT .
Wherefore?
KARL .
He has thwarted my designs! — No, no, I mean not that! I mean that I hate him because he plotted treason against the king, and wrote " Tyrant " upon the vase.
ALBERT .
Did he write it?
KARL .
He did — these eyes beheld him.
COUNT
The perjured caitiff!
SOPHIA .
O Heaven, have mercy upon us!
COUNTESS .
They are lost!
(Countess leans on F REDERICA . The King beckons to H AROLD , who goes to him. They engage in earnest conversation, occasionally pointing to K ARL . H AROLD is supposed to be informing him of the arrest of K ARL in Sophia'S cell K ARL leaves the witness-box, and is about to retire, but is stopped by H AROLD .)
ALBERT .
Call the German inn-keeper to the stand.
KARL
I tremble with apprehension!
ALBERT
You deal in colors — do you not?
HANS .
Yaw, mynheer.
ALBERT .
Have you sold any in Berlin lately?
HANS .
Yaw, mynheer; I sold some of der Prussian blue to der Hungarian overseer of der factory, who gave me monish to say notting about it. He tried der quality upon dis little scrap of baper, vich he forgot, and vich I kept, mit der intention of giving him back ven I saw him again. It is scrawled all over mit der word " Tyrant "
KARL
That paper's mine — give it me!
WEDGEWOOD
It's not convenient!
ALBERT .
An attempt to imitate the handwriting of the count. Compare it with the word upon the vase.
JUDGE .
It is the same!
CHORUS .
Huzza! huzza! etc.
WEDGEWOOD ( forgetting himself, after the chorus has finished, shouts out at the top of his voice ,) Huzza! — ( which the King observing, rises to call him to order; when W EDGEWOOD , noticing the King, places his hand upon his own mouth; and looking round, and holding his mallet in a threatening manner over K ARL , who is silent, by way of excusing his mistake, says ) — But silence in the court! ( The King, shaking his finger at W EDGEWOOD , takes his seat ; H ANS leaves the box .)
ALBERT .
Place that workman on the stand.
Did you ever see this vase before?
WORKMAN .
Yes, sir.
ALBERT .
Where?
WORKMAN .
I saw Karl receive it for the furnace, and I saw him marking upon it with a sharp instrument, which he suddenly hid in his bosom. (K ARL feels for his dagger, and half draws it, looking at Sophia ferociously . Sophia observes him narrowly, and with great apprehension .)
ALBERT .
Who took the vase from the furnace?
WORKMAN .
Karl.
ALBERT .
Who had possession of it afterward?
WORKMAN .
Karl.
ALBERT .
Who pointed out the word " Tyrant " to the king at the fête of the countess?
KING
Karl!
ALBERT .
Who has misled, blinded, and deceived the king?
KING
Traitorous, fiendlike Karl!
KARL
I am stunned with horror!
KING
By your leave, Mr. Wedgewood.
CHORUS
Long live the king! etc.
(The King takes his station in the centre of the stage, and lifts his hat.)
KING .
If the court please —
WEDGEWOOD
Bravo! His Majesty is becoming a principal witness! (In a subdued tone of voice.) Silence in the court! — The king speaks!
KING
I see it all! The case is clear. Karl had my permission to espouse Sophia. She refused him Laniska loved her. Karl hated him, and planned her destruction; visited her in prison; tried to force her to fly the country with him; she refused, and he would have slain her, had not Mr. Wedgewood, the Advocate, and Harold — who has just told me all — struck him to the ground. Karl plotted this mischief — Karl bought the paint — Karl wrote the word — and Karl shall DIE !
KARL
But not not unavenged! (He darts toward Sophia , and makes an attempt to stab her . Sophia shrieks, and runs to L ANISKA . All the Characters rise, greatly excited, and watch the scene with deep interest. The Guards present their pikes to the breast of K ARL , who is seized by H AROLD and Corporal — in the brief struggle with whom , K ARL'S shirt-sleeve is torn open, and the felon's brand is discovered on his arm. To this Albert points in triumph — Tableau. — The whole action is instantaneous )
HAROLD
Behold, my liege, the felon's brand! ( Presto! — all start with astonishment )
CHORUS .
Now, who's the traitor?
QUINTETTE AND CHORUS .
KARL .
The javelin from an unseen hand
Was sent that laid me low! —
Behold exposed the felon's brand
Unto my mortal foe!
CHORUS .
Who's now the traitor? etc.
JUDGE
What say the jury?
FOREMAN
The prisoners are innocent! ( Presto! — all start with joy .)
CHORUS .
The prisoners are innocent! etc. (Some of the Characters clasp their hands — others embrace . Sophia and L ANISKA turn to Albert , and the Countess and F REDERICA to the King, in gratitude .)
KARL .
Oh, rage and fury!
CHORUS .
Rejoice! our loyal hearts we bring
As free-will offerings to the king!
SOLO — SOPHIA TO KING .
Oh, let me to thy ermine cling
In gratitude, (kneels,) God bless the king!
CHORUS .
God save the king!
Long live the king! etc. ( The Workmen and Girls of the Factory , Advocates, Officers, Soldiers, Ladies and Gentlemen, Spectators, and all the Characters on the stage, indicate by appropriate and spontaneous action the deep and intense interest they take in the verdict . — K ARL gasps and faints, and is supported by H AROLD and Corporal. — W EDGEWOOD notices the tableau with great self-complacency — [ The whole action is simultaneous ] — K ARL is borne off by H AROLD and Corporal. All the Characters then turn, and by looks and actions congratulate each other, and the scene instantly becomes one of general joy .)
KING .
This court is now dissolved. ( The principal Characters leave their stations; and all the Parties, except the Judges and those in the gallery, come upon the stage. — To the Judges.) Your lordships must pardon all irregularities. This is the first trial by jury that ever took place in Prussia. Hereafter, no human power shall interrupt your grave deliberations. ( To Count L ANISKA .) Count Laniska, I took your sword from you this morning: I here present you mine. (Count kneels, and receives it .)
COUNT .
This, with my life, I dedicate to Your Majesty's service!
KING
As for you, sir, the sword, is not your weapon. (H AROLD advances with a golden pen upon a velvet cushion . Albert kneels .) Receive this emblem of far greater power than all the implements of war, and wield it for the benefit of mankind. Rise, Baron — —
ALBERT .
Mansfield, Your Majesty —
KING
Mansfield?
SOPHIA .
My heart was not deceived! My long-lost brother!
ALBERT
My dear, dear sister!
KING
So, so, so! Oh, what an old fool I have been! (Looking around) Come hither, Sophia. (She advances; the King takes her hand.) I owe you some amends for your long and patient suffering on my account ( taking the Count's hand ) — and thus I make them. (Sophia and L ANISKA join hands joyfully .) How well the criminals understand each other! (Rubbing his hands, and walking joyfully about the stage.) Ah, Mr. Wedgewood, I don't care if I take a pinch of snuff out of that same box I gave you the other day.
WEDGEWOOD
Your Majesty has added to its value a diamond worth all the rest, in finding it is large enough for two of us.
KING .
Good! ( Notices F REDERICA .) What! Frederica, my fair namesake and little god-daughter — in the dumps? ( Looking at Albert ) Oh, I understand. ( To Countess.) By your leave, madam. ( Hands F REDERICA to Albert .) You perceive, Mr. Wedgewood, that I have a large family to look after and provide for; but I am a happy father, sir — mine are good children, very good children! I wish I had more like these.
WEDGEWOOD
If Your Majesty goes on in this way, there'll be plenty more — in time .
KING .
All are now satisfied — at least I hope all are so here. ( To the audience ) If, as a king, I may, on another occasion, command an audience —
WEDGEWOOD ( forgetting himself, lifting his mallet and flourishing it like an auctioneer .)
Going! ( Recollecting himself ) — I mean — ( slowly and with gravity ) — s — i — l — e — n — c — e i — n t — h — e c — o — u — r — t!
KING .
These witnesses will, I am sure, attend the next trial of T HE M AID OF S AXONY —
WEDGEWOOD.
If it is convenient.
FINALE
Our hearts are bounding with delight!
'Tis Freedom's jubilee!
For right has triumphed over might —
The bond again are free!
Hurrah! — hurrah!
Let the welkin ring!
To Justice and Liberty
Paeans we sing!
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