Goetz:

Councillor: We owe no faith to robbers.

Councillor:

Goetz: If you were not the representative of my respected sovereign, you should swallow that word, or choke upon it!

Goetz:

[Councillor makes a sign, and a bell is rung. Enter citizens with halberds and swords.

Councillor

Councillor: You will not listen—seize him!

Councillor:

[They rush upon him. He strikes one down, and snatches a sword from another. They stand aloof.

Goetz: Come on! I should like to become acquainted     [Pg 14] with the bravest among you.

Goetz:

[Pg 14]

[A trumpet is heard without. Enter Usher.

Usher

Usher: Franz von Sickingen is without and sends word that having heard how faith has been broken with his brother-in-law, he insists upon justice, or within an hour he will fire the four quarters of the town, and abandon it to be sacked by his men.

Usher:

Goetz: Brave friend!

Goetz:

Councillor: YOU had best dissuade your brother-in-law from his rebellious intention. He will only become the companion of your fall! Meanwhile, we will consider how we can best uphold the emperor's authority.

 Prev. P 29/559 next