Chapter 49

(The door opens suddenly. Countess Miliszewska rushes in).

Countess.--Jan, where is my Jan? O God, what is the matter? How dreadful!

Doctor (rushing toward her).--Be silent, madam.

Stella.--What has happened?

Countess.--Then you have not killed Pretwic? You have not fought?

Doctor.--Madam, be silent.

Stella.--Who is killed?

Countess.--Stella, my dearest, Drahomir has killed Pretwic.

Stella.--Killed! O God!

Doctor.--Princess, it is not true.

Stella.--Killed! (She staggers and falls.)

Doctor.--She has fainted. Let us carry her to her chamber.

Prince.--My child!

Czeska.--Stelunia! (The prince and Jozwowicz carry Stella. The countess and Czeska follow them.)

Jan (alone).--It is dreadful. Who could have expected that mamma would return! (The countess appears in the door.) Mamma, how is the princess?

Countess.--The doctor is trying to bring her to her senses. Until now he has not succeeded. Jan, let us be going.

Jan (in despair).--I shall not go. Why did you return from the city?

Countess.--For you. To-day is election day--have you forgotten it?

Jan.--I do not wish to be a member of parliament. Why did you tell her that Pretwic was killed?