SCENE II.--_Hall at Jaxthausen_. SICKINGEN _and_ GOETZ.

GOETZ: So you want to marry a jilted woman?

SICKINGEN: To be deceived by him is an honour for you both. I want a mistress for my castles and gardens. In the field, at court, I want to stand alone.

[_Enter_ SELBITZ.

SELBITZ: Bad news! The emperor has put you under the ban, and has sent troops to seize you.

GOETZ: Sickingen, you hear. Take back your offer, and leave me!

SICKINGEN: I shall not turn from you in trouble. No better wooing than in time of war and danger.

GOETZ: On one condition. You must publicly detach yourself from me. The emperor loves and esteems you, and your intercession may save me in the hour of need.

SICKINGEN: But I can secretly send you twenty horsemen.

GOETZ: That offer I accept. [_Exeunt._