_Wallenstein._ There's no such thing as chance. In brief, 'tis signed and sealed that this Octavio Is my good angel--and now no word more. [_He is retiring._ _Tertsky._ This is my comfort--Max remains our hostage. 100 _Illo._ And he shall never stir from here alive. _Wallenstein (stops and turns himself round)._ Are ye not like the women, who for ever Only recur to their first word, although One had been talking reason by the hour? 105 Know, that the human being's thoughts and deeds Are not, like ocean billows, blindly moved. The inner world, his microcosmus, is The deep shaft, out of which they spring eternally. They grow by certain laws, like the tree's fruit-- 110 No juggling chance can metamorphose them. Have I the human kernel first examined? Then I know, too, the future will and action. LINENOTES: [38] _me_ 1800, 1828, 1829. [76] included] include 1800. [89] _Octavio_ 1800, 1828, 1829. [98] _Wallenstein (significantly)._ 1800, 1828, 1829. [112] _kernel_ 1800, 1828, 1829. SCENE IV SCENE--_A Chamber in PICCOLOMINI'S Dwelling-House._ _OCTAVIO PICCOLOMINI, ISOLANI (entering)._ _Isolani._ Here am I--Well! who comes yet of the others? _Octavio._ But, first, a word with you, Count Isolani. _Isolani._ Will it explode, ha?--Is the Duke about To make the attempt? In me, friend, you may place Full confidence.--Nay, put me to the proof. 5 _Octavio._ That may happen. _Isolani._ Noble brother, I am Not one of those men who in words are valiant, And when it comes to action skulk away. The Duke has acted towards me as a friend. God knows it is so; and I owe him all---- 10 He may rely on my fidelity. _Octavio._ That will be seen hereafter. _Isolani._ Be on your guard, All think not as I think; and there are many Who still hold with the Court--yes, and they say That those stolen signatures bind them to nothing. 15 _Octavio._ I am rejoiced to hear it. _Isolani._ You rejoice! _Octavio._ That the Emperor has yet such gallant servants And loving friends. _Isolani._ Nay, jeer not, I entreat you. They are no such worthless fellows, I assure you. _Octavio._ I am assured already. God forbid 20 That I should jest!--In very serious earnest I am rejoiced to see an honest cause So strong. _Isolani._ The Devil!--what!--why, what means this? Are you not, then----For what, then, am I here? _Octavio._ That you may make full declaration, whether 25 You will be called the friend or enemy Of the Emperor. _Isolani._ That declaration, friend, I'll make to him in whom a right is placed To put that question to me.