_Iden._ (_aside_). I don't much like this fellow--close and dry He seems,--two things which suit me not; however, Wine he shall have; if that unlocks him not, I shall not sleep to-night for curiosity. [_Exit_ IDENSTEIN. _Gab._ (_to_ WERNER). This master of the ceremonies is The intendant of the palace, I presume: 'Tis a fine building, but decayed. _Wer._ The apartment 310 Designed for him you rescued will be found In fitter order for a sickly guest. _Gab._ I wonder then you occupied it not, For you seem delicate in health. _Wer._ (_quickly_). Sir! _Gab._ Pray Excuse me: have I said aught to offend you? _Wer._ Nothing: but we are strangers to each other. _Gab._ And that's the reason I would have us less so: I thought our bustling guest without had said You were a chance and passing guest, the counterpart Of me and my companions. _Wer._ Very true. 320 _Gab._ Then, as we never met before, and never, It may be, may again encounter, why, I thought to cheer up this old dungeon here (At least to me) by asking you to share The fare of my companions and myself. _Wer._ Pray, pardon me; my health---- _Gab._ Even as you please. I have been a soldier, and perhaps am blunt In bearing. _Wer._ I have also served, and can Requite a soldier's greeting. _Gab._ In what service? The Imperial? _Wer._ (_quickly, and then interrupting himself_). I commanded--no--I mean 330 I served; but it is many years ago, When first Bohemia[167] raised her banner 'gainst The Austrian. _Gab._ Well, that's over now, and peace Has turned some thousand gallant hearts adrift To live as they best may: and, to say truth, Some take the shortest. _Wer._ What is that? _Gab._ Whate'er They lay their hands on. All Silesia and Lusatia's woods are tenanted by bands Of the late troops, who levy on the country Their maintenance: the Chatelains must keep 340 Their castle walls--beyond them 'tis but doubtful Travel for your rich Count or full-blown Baron. My comfort is that, wander where I may, I've little left to lose now. _Wer._ And I--nothing. _Gab._ That's harder still. You say you were a soldier. _Wer._ I was.