_Wallenstein (coming forward in conversation)._ He sends me word from Linz, that he lies sick; But I have sure intelligence, that he Secretes himself at Frauenberg with Galas. Secure them both, and send them to me hither. Remember, thou tak'st on thee the command 5 Of those same Spanish regiments,--constantly Make preparation, and be never ready; And if they urge thee to draw out against me, Still answer yes, and stand as thou wert fettered. I know, that it is doing thee a service 10 To keep thee out of action in this business. Thou lovest to linger on in fair appearances; Steps of extremity are not thy province, Therefore have I sought out this part for thee. Thou wilt this time be of most service to me 15 By thy inertness. The mean time, if fortune Declare itself on my side, thou wilt know What is to do. _Enter MAX PICCOLOMINI._ Now go, Octavio. This night must thou be off, take my own horses: Him here I keep with me--make short farewell-- 20 Trust me, I think we all shall meet again In joy and thriving fortunes. _Octavio (to his son)._ I shall see you Yet ere I go. LINENOTES: [3] Secretes] Secrets 1828, 1829, 1893. [9] YES 1800, 1828, 1829. SCENE II _WALLENSTEIN, MAX PICCOLOMINI._ _Max (advances to him)._ My General! _Wallenstein._ That am I no longer, if Thou styl'st thyself the Emperor's officer. _Max._ Then thou wilt leave the army, General? _Wallenstein._ I have renounced the service of the Emperor. _Max._ And thou wilt leave the army? _Wallenstein._ Rather hope I 5 To bind it nearer still and faster to me. [_He seats himself._ Yes, Max, I have delayed to open it to thee, Even till the hour of acting 'gins to strike. Youth's fortunate feeling doth seize easily The absolute right, yea, and a joy it is 10 To exercise the single apprehension Where the sums square in proof; But where it happens, that of two sure evils One must be taken, where the heart not wholly Brings itself back from out the strife of duties, 15 There 'tis a blessing to have no election, And blank necessity is grace and favour. --This is now present: do not look behind thee.-- It can no more avail thee. Look thou forwards! Think not! judge not! prepare thyself to act! 20 The Court--it hath determined on my ruin, Therefore I will to be beforehand with them. We'll join the Swedes--right gallant fellows are they, And our good friends. [_He stops himself, expecting PICCOLOMINI'S answer._ I have ta'en thee by surprise. Answer me not. 25 I grant thee time to recollect thyself.