There's no such thing as chance. [And what to us seems merest accident Springs from the deepest source of destiny.] In brief, 'tis sign'd and seal'd that this Octavio Is my good angel--and now no word more.
This is my comfort--Max remains our hostage.
WALLENSTEIN (_stops and turns himself round_).
Are ye not like the women who forever Only recur to their first word, although One had been talking reason by the hour! Know that the human being's thoughts and needs Are not like ocean billows, blindly moved. The inner world, his microcosmus, is The deep shaft out of which they spring eternally. They grow by certain laws, like the tree's fruit-- No juggling chance can metamorphose them. Have I the human _kernel_ first examined? Then I know, too, the future will and action.
_Chamber in the residence of Piccolomini_
OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI (_attired for traveling_), AN ADJUTANT
And are the soldiers trusty, Adjutant? Say, from what regiment hast thou chosen them?
That regiment is loyal; Keep them in silence in the inner court, Unseen by all, and when the signal peals Then close the doors; keep watch upon the house, And all ye meet be instantly arrested.
I hope indeed I shall not need their service, So certain feel I of my well laid plans; But when an empire's safety is at stake 'Twere better too much caution than too little.
_A Chamber in PICCOLOMINI's Dwelling-House_.
Here am I--Well! who comes yet of the others?
But, first, a word with you, Count Isolani.
ISOLANI (_assuming the same air of mystery_).
Will it explode, ha?--Is the Duke about To make the attempt? In me, friend, you may place Full confidence--Nay, put me to the proof.
Noble brother, I am Not one of those men who in words are valiant, And when it comes to action skulk away. The Duke has acted toward me as a friend. God knows it is so; and I owe him all-- He may rely on my fidelity.
Be on your guard, All think not as I think; and there are many Who still hold with the Court--yes, and they say That those stolen signatures bind them to nothing.
Indeed! Pray name to me the chiefs that think so.
Plague upon them! all the Germans think so; Esterhazy, Kaunitz, Deodati, too, Insist upon obedience to the Court.]
That the Emperor has yet such gallant servants, And loving friends!