Prince.—­What nonsense you are talking.

Doctor.—­I am only joking.  Well, Your Highness, let us cease this irritation.

Prince.—­It is true, it hurts me.  Why will you not give up the idea of becoming a member of parliament?

Doctor.—­It is my future.

Prince.—­And in the mean time I am vexed by every one on that account.  When I was young I was in many battles and I did not fear.  I can show my decorations.  I was not afraid of death on the battlefield, but those Latin illnesses of yours—­Why do you look at me in that way?

Doctor.—­I am looking as usual.  As for your illness, I will say that it is more the imagination of Your Highness than anything else.  The constitution is strong, and with my assistance Your Highness will live to the age of Methusaleh.

Prince.—­Are you sure of it?

Doctor.—­Positive.

Prince.—­Good boy!  And you will not leave me?

Doctor.—­Your Highness may be assured of that.

Prince.—­Then you may become a member of parliament or whatever you please.  Stella!  Oh, she is not here!  Upon my honor, that Miliszewski is an ass.  Don’t you think so?

Doctor.—­I cannot contradict Your Highness.

SCENE V.

The same.  Stella and Mrs. Czeska.

Stella.—­I came because I was afraid you would quarrel.  Well, what is the end of the discussion?

Prince.—­Well, that good-for-nothing man will do what he pleases.

Doctor.—­The fact is that the prince has approved of my plans and has granted me permission to try my luck at the election.

Mrs. Czeska.—­We had better all go to the garden.  Mr. Pretwic and
Count Drahomir are waiting—­we are going for a sail on the lake.

Prince.—­Then let us be going (they go out).  You see, madam, that
Miliszewska!

SCENE VI.

Jozwowicz, Stella.  Then Drahomir.

Stella.—­How is my father’s health?

Doctor.—­All that can be expected.  But you are pale, princess.

Stella.—­Oh, I am well.

Doctor.—­It is the consequence of the betrothal.

Stella.—­It must be.

Doctor.—­But health requires one to be merry—­to enjoy life.

Stella.—­I do not wish for any other distraction.

Doctor.—­If not distraction, at least enjoyment.  We here are too grave for you.  Perhaps we cannot understand you.

Stella.—­You are all too good.

Doctor.—­At least solicitous.  If you have a moment to spare let us be seated and have a talk.  My solicitude must explain my boldness.  With the dignity of a fiance, serenity and happiness generally go hand in hand.  When the heart is given willingly, all longing ceases and the future is viewed with serenity.

Stella.—­My future contains something which might cause even the most valiant to fear.