Chapter 18

_A sergeant enters in haste. The others as before._

SERGEANT. By the Almighty God, my Prince, I scarce Dare bring to you the rumor that's abroad!-- The Elector lives!

THE PRINCE. He lives!

SERGEANT. By heaven above! Count Sparren brought the joyful news but now!

NATALIE. Lord of my days! Oh, mother, did you hear?

[_She falls down at the feet of the ELECTRESS and embraces her._]

THE PRINCE. But say! Who brings the news

SERGEANT. Count George of Sparren, Who saw him, hale and sound, with his own eyes At Hackelwitz amid the Truchszian corps.

THE PRINCE. Quick! Run, old man! And bring him in to me!

[_The_ SERGEANT _goes out._]