Chapter 30
Pretwic. Jozwowicz.
George.--I was looking for you.
Doctor.--The prince has invited us to smoke a cigar with him.
George.--Wait a moment. For God's sake tell me what it means. Stella changes while looking at her--there is something heavy in the air. What does it mean?
Doctor.--That melancholy is the mode now.
George.--You are joking with me.
Doctor.--I know nothing.
George.--Excuse me. The blood rushes to my head. I see some catastrophe hanging over me. I thought you would say something to pacify me. I thought you were my friend.
Doctor.--Do you doubt it?
George.--Shake hands first. Then give me some advice.
Doctor.--Advice? Are you ill?
George (with an effort).--Truly, you play with me as a cat with a mouse.
Doctor.--Because I know nothing of presentiments.
George.--Did you not tell me that she is not ill?
Doctor.--No, she is wearied.
George.--You speak about it in a strange way and you have no conception of the pain that your words cause me.
Doctor.--Then try to distract her.
George.--What? Who?
Doctor.--Who? Count Drahomir, for instance.
George.--Is she fond of him?
Doctor.--And he of her also. Such poetical souls are always fond of each other.
George.--What do you mean by that?
Doctor (sharply).--And you--how do you take my words?
George (rises.)--Not another word. You understand me, and you must know that I do not always forgive.
Doctor (rises also, approaches George and looks into his eyes).--I believe you wish to frighten me. Besides this, what more do you wish?
George (after a moment of struggle with himself).--You must ask me what I did wish, because I do not now wish for anything. You have known her longer than I have, therefore I came to you as her friend and mine, and for answer you banter with me. In your eyes there shone hatred for me, although I have never wronged, you. Be the judge yourself! I would be more than right in asking you: What do you wish of me, if it were not for the reason (with pride) that it is immaterial to me. (He goes out.)
Doctor.--We shall see.