Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/350

This is thrift, good husbandry! We must begin to use our wits and find other resources! But do you hear me, Mr. Broz? I am in pressing need of that two thousand today!

Broz.—For what purpose?

Jaroslav.—My very good friend from Vienna, Max Neufeld, is coming. I want to go with him to the city. Its been a long time since I’ve been out on a real vagabondage. (Goes aside to the right.) Mr. Scheffel has been asking for you. (Whistles and walks away.)

Broz.—Again? A very special honor.

(From the left enters Dr. Svoboda, Hromadkova, and Servant.)

Dr. Svoboda.—There. For the present I have fixed you up. Just be careful not to move the bandage.

Hromadkova.—May the Lord reward you a thousand times, noble sir!

Dr. Svoboda.—That’s all right! Just come back again tomorrow! (Exit the Olld Woman and Servant from the right.)

Broz.—Another relieved patient. But be careful: “May the Lord reward you!”

Dr. Svoboda.—Wouldn’t it be fine! To allow these poor unfortunates to pay for their misfortune! But they reward me in other ways.

Broz.—Just as that farmer, Zicha, did. Do you remember how you set his fractured shoulder, then he led the water from his marshy land down through ditches into your field?

(From the left enters Baron Siegdorf in short satin riding coat and riding-trousers, with a whip in hand. His feet are somewhat crooked. He speaks quickly and proudly with an affected German accent. He tries to assume an air of importance, yet at times is comical and almost clownish. Without a word of greeting, he steps boldly up to Dr. Svoboda, and offers his hand. Broz, standing in the background, is closely observing the baron during his conversation with the doctor.)