Jan (alone).—It is dreadful. Who could have expected that mamma would return! (The countess appears in the door.) Mamma, how is the princess?
Countess.—The doctor is trying to bring her to her senses. Until now he has not succeeded. Jan, let us be going.
Jan (in despair).—I shall not go. Why did you return from the city?
Countess.—For you. To-day is election day—have you forgotten it?
Jan.—I do not wish to be a member of parliament. Why did you tell her that Pretwic was killed?
SCENE IX.
The same. Jozwowicz.
Countess and Jan together.—What news?
Doctor.—Everything is over. (The bell is heard tolling in the chapel of the château.)
Jan (frightened).—What, the bell of the chapel? Then she is dead!
(Jozwowicz comes to the front of the stage and sits down.)