Читать книгу The Greatest German Classics (Vol. 1-14) - Various - Страница 1844

The time is precious—let us talk openly.

You know how matters stand here. Wallenstein

Meditates treason—I can tell you further,

He has committed treason; but few hours

Have past since he a covenant concluded

With the enemy. The messengers are now

Full on their way to Egra and to Prague.

Tomorrow he intends to lead us over

To the enemy. But he deceives himself;

For Prudence wakes—The Emperor has still

Many and faithful friends here, and they stand

In closest union, mighty though unseen.

This manifesto sentences the Duke—

Recalls the obedience of the army from him,

And summons all the loyal, all the honest,

To join and recognize in me their leader.

Choose—will you share with us an honest cause?

Or with the evil share an evil lot?

BUTLER (rises).

His lot is mine.