Scene I
Bilent, Hannewaldt, Ctibor and Polyxena
Bilent.—It is time for the appearance of the master, Mr. Secretary.
Hannewaldt.—I tried to be here at the very minute His Grace mentioned for the appointment.
Bilent.—He will truly regret that he did not appear first.
Hannewaldt.—Aj, who can be prompt to the minute, especially with a thousand and one duties to attend to such as fall upon the owner of a castle? And you sir, you devote yourself to alchemy, do you not?
Bilent (As though he were buried in thought, and appearing both serious and mysterious).—That science which will not give up its secrets though the flesh and blood of its devotees were to be sacrificed to its cause.
Hannewaldt.—Třebon and Prague were formerly its principal seats in Bohemia. (Then correcting himself quickly.) They still are.
Bilent.—Too bad that Třebon was formerly of more consequence than it is now.
Hannewaldt.—During the time of its predecessor, Mr. Vokova, or Mr. Vílem?
Bilent.—That is the case. The present master does not devote as much time to the science as he should.
Hannewaldt.—That is true and that is why I believe that Prague at present is the place that does most for alchemy and its disciples.
Bilent.—Yes, the King and Emperor, Rudolf, will doubtless not fail to obtain successful results in it.
Hannewaldt.—There are now accumulated heaps of gold—gold which will flood every one who but partially knows that mysterious science.
(Bilent raises his head, listening with keenest interest to that which Hannewaldt is saying. The two walk side by side the length of the room, talking eagerly together.)
Ctibor of Ujezda (to Polyxena).—If fortune would but smile upon us, and cause you, gracious lady, to like this place!
Polyxena.—Who would not recognize this country of lakes, which seem to be general about this border, as a region of beauty?
