Drahomir.--They told me that there was a woman in a house of which the roof had begun to burn. Thinking that this salamander who was not afraid of fire was some enchanted beauty, I entered the house out of pure curiosity. It was quite dark owing to the smoke. I looked and saw that I had no luck, because the salamander was only an old Jewish woman packing some feathers in a bag. Amidst the cloud of down she looked like anything you please but an enchantress. I shouted that there was a fire, and she shouted too, evidently taking me for a thief--so we both screamed. Finally I seized hold of my salamander, fainting with fear, and carried her out, not even through a window, but through the door. George.--But you omitted to say that the roof fell in and that a spar struck your hand. Drahomir.--True--and I destroyed the dam of my modesty, and will add that one of the selectmen of the village made a speech in my honor. It seems to me that he made some mention of a monument which they would erect for me. But pray believe that the fire was quenched by George and his people. I think they ought to erect two monuments. Czeska.--I know that you are worthy of each other. Stella.--Thank God that you have not met with some more serious accident. Drahomir.--I have met with something very pleasant--your sympathy. Czeska--You have mine also--as for Mr. Pretwic, I have a bone to pick with him. George--Why, dear madam? Czeska.--Because you are a bad boy. (To Stella and Drahomir.) You had better go to the Prince, and let us talk for a while. Stella.--Mother, I see you wish to flirt with Mr. Pretwic. Czeska.--Be quiet, you giddy thing. May I not compete with you? But you must remember, you Mayflower, that before every autumn there is a spring. Well, be off! Stella (to Drahomir).--Let us go; Papa is in the garden and I am afraid that he is feeling worse. What a pity it is that the doctor is not here. SCENE III. Mrs. Czeska, George, then Stella. Czeska.--I should scold you, as I have my dear girl, for keeping the secret. But she has already told me everything, so I only say, may God bless you both. George (kissing her hand).--Thank you, madam. Czeska.--I have reared that child. I was ten years with her, so I know what a treasure you take, sir. You have said that your hands are too rough. I have answered her--not too rough, for they are honest. But Stella is a very delicate flower. She must be loved much, and have good care taken of her. But you will be able to do it--will you not? George.--What can I tell you? As far as it is in human power to make happy that dearest to me girl, so far I wish to assure her happiness with me. Czeska.--With all my soul, I say: God bless you! George.--The Princess Stella loves you like her own mother, so I will be as frank with you as with a mother. My life has been a very hard one. There was a moment when my life was suspended by one thread--Karol rescued me then, and for that I love him as a brother; and then--