Vonka.—We have only one round of shot left. After that we’ll fall, they’ll have us covered. But that one shot shall be fired and see to it each one that it is fired with result. Now from behind this wall and when I give you a sign—fire. (The soldiers take their places back of the wall and aim without.)
Vonka.—Are you ready?
Soldiers.—We are.
Vonka.—Fire! (A volley knells.)
Ebner.—This is your finish, before you load again they’ll storm this place.
Vonka.—Let’s out at them before they get here. (To the gate.) With me—all. (The soldiers gather about him.)
Vonka.—Are you all here?
Soldiers.—We are.
Vonka.—The shooting was fine, now try the bayonet. In the name of our country. For the sake of our country. We are its only guardians. Altogether now with me. (With a shout.) For the country, hurrah! (Flings the gate wide open and rushes out; the others after him, their shouting can be heard.)
Ebner.—They’ll sweep you off—madmen—run on with it. (A volley—back of scene—from the Prussians’ side—then for a second quiet reigns—the church-yard is deserted.)
Ebner.—Swept off—How could they help it—swept off all—(But not quite; Vonka’s “For the country—hurrah” suddenly sounds in the distance;) No? (The others’ shouts now follow Vonka’s lead.)
(A pause.)
Ebner (who has been listening).—Did they escape those devils—but its only a question of moments now. (Trying to free himself.) Damned lunatics! (He is listening again.) Are they fighting? (A distant report of the fray. The voices are indistinguishable. But then suddenly for the third time clearly resounds Vonka’s “For the country—hurrah”)
Ebner (Straightens up).—Who the devil’s with them—the victors, madmen!! And I am powerless—Powerless—And now—death—!
Curtain.
