Page:Wallenstein, a drama in 2 parts - Schiller (tr. Coleridge) (1800).djvu/102

COUNTESS (laughs)

The astrological tower!—How happens it

That this same sanctuary, whose access
Is to all others so impracticable,
Opens before you e'en at your approach?

THEKLA.

A dwarfish old man with a friendly face

And snow-white hairs, whose gracious services
Were mine at first sight, open'd me the doors.

MAX.

That is the Duke's astrologer, old Seni.

THEKLA.

He question'd me on many points; for instance,

When I was born, what month, and on what day,
Whether by day or in the night.

COUNTESS.

He wish'd

To erect a figure for your horoscope.

THEKLA.

My hand too he examin'd, shook his head

With much sad meaning, and the lines, methought,
Did not square over truly with his wishes.

COUNTESS.

Well, Princess, and what found you in this tower?

My highest privilege has been to snatch
A side-glance, and away!

THEKLA.

It was a strange

Sensation that came o'er me, when at first
From the broad sunshine I stepp'd in; and now
The narrowing line of day-light, that ran after
The closing door, was gone; and all about me
'Twas pale and dusky night, with many shadows

Fantas-