[_TERTSKY gives the paper to MARADAS; he steps to the table to subscribe._ _Octavio (advancing to Butler)._ You are not over fond of the orgies of Bacchus, Colonel! I have observed it. You would, I think, find yourself more to your liking in the uproar of a battle, 50 than of a feast. _Butler._ I must confess, 'tis not in my way. _Octavio._ Nor in mine either, I can assure you; and I am not a little glad, my much honoured Colonel Butler, that we agree so well in our opinions. A half dozen good friends at most, 55 at a small round table, a glass of genuine Tokay, open hearts, and a rational conversation--that's my taste! _Butler._ And mine too, when it can be had. [_The paper comes to TIEFENBACH, who glances over it at the same time with GOETZ and KOLATTO. MARADAS in the mean time returns to OCTAVIO, all this takes place, the conversation with BUTLER proceeding uninterrupted._ _Octavio (introducing Maradas to Butler)._ Don Balthasar Maradas! likewise a man of our stamp, and long ago your admirer. 60 [_BUTLER bows._ _Octavio (continuing)._ You are a stranger here--'twas but yesterday you arrived--you are ignorant of the ways and means here. 'Tis a wretched place--I know, at our age, one loves to be snug and quiet--What if you moved your lodgings?--Come, be my visitor. (_BUTLER makes a low bow._) Nay, without 65 compliment!--For a friend like you, I have still a corner remaining. _Butler._ Your obliged humble servant, my Lord Lieutenant-General! [_The paper comes to BUTLER, who goes to the table to subscribe it. The front of the stage is vacant, so that both the PICCOLOMINIS, each on the side where he had been from the commencement of the scene, remain alone._ _Octavio (after having some time watched his son in silence, advances somewhat nearer to him)._ You were long absent from us, friend! 70 _Max._ I----urgent business detained me. _Octavio._ And, I observe, you are still absent! _Max._ You know this crowd and bustle always makes me silent. 75 _Octavio._ May I be permitted to ask what business 'twas that detained you? Tertsky knows it without asking! _Max._ What does Tertsky know? _Octavio._ He was the only one who did not miss you. _Isolani._ Well done, father! Rout out his baggage! Beat 80 up his quarters! there is something there that should not be. _Tertsky (with the paper)._ Is there none wanting? Have the whole subscribed? _Octavio._ All.