of the men have been let out of work. They are not operating the mines. I was about to ask if the work is to be had here!
Tonicka.—Here it will be still worse! For they are purposely driving men away.
Kralencova.—Oh, our crucified Savior!
Tonicka.—I have concluded that there is nothing to be done except for Vojtech to look for work at another mine. Or else we must go to the castle near by to ask for some kind of work. (Bringing her bread, salt, butter, and a knife.)
Kralencova.—And how could anything of this sort happen to you? There is no work to be had anywhere!
Tonicka (Frightened).—The Lord help us! Have some more, mother! You must need it after your journey!
Kralenec.—And why do you say nothing is to be found any where?
Kralencova (Taking more bread).—Because they are not taking men into any of the mines now. They are letting some of them go. We were making inquiries yesterday. And what kind of work could you get at the estate, now in the winter?
Tonicka (Somewhat depressed).—I shall go there just the same to ask the young mistress to take us in!
Kralencova.—Neither the young mistress nor her husband are now at home! They have gone to Prague, and people say they will spend two months in Italy!
(Kralenec looks at Tonicka.)
Tonicka (Looks frightened for a minute, then says:).—But something must turn up, after all!
Kralencova.—But with difficulty, Tonicka! There will be nothing to do on the estate until spring opens, and they are closing down the mines.
Tonicka (To herself).—For Heaven’s sake! (Looks at Kralenec, then goes over to Pepicek. Bozenka goes to the window.)
Kralenec.—Well, well, that is news . . .
Kralencova.—I myself do not know what Josef will do. Here he would hardly be apt to find a place?
Kralenec.—Not unless he wishes to take the one left open by myself, or one of the other men who have been driven out!
Kralencova (Stops eating). Such a thing, only a shameless outcast would do! Josef will not provision his table through the necessity of another.
Bozenka (At the window).—Uncle, the people are coming
