Octavio. True! and I name all honest men like-minded. 10
I never charge a man but with those acts
To which his character deliberately
Impels him; for alas! the violence
Of blind misunderstandings often thrusts
The very best of us from the right track. [15]
You came through Frauenberg. Did the Count Galas
Say nothing to you? Tell me. He's my friend.

Butler. His words were lost on me.

Octavio. It grieves me sorely
[[717]] To hear it: for his counsel was most wise.
I had myself the like to offer.

Butler. Spare 20
Yourself the trouble—me th' embarrassment,
To have deserved so ill your good opinion.

Octavio. The time is precious—let us talk openly.
You know how matters stand here. Wallenstein
Meditates treason—I can tell you further— 25
He has committed treason; but few hours
Have past, since he a covenant concluded
With the enemy. The messengers are now
Full on their way to Egra and to Prague.
To-morrow he intends to lead us over 30
To the enemy. But he deceives himself;
For prudence wakes—the Emperor has still
Many and faithful friends here, and they stand
In closest union, mighty though unseen.
This manifesto sentences the Duke— 35
Recalls the obedience of the army from him,
And summons all the loyal, all the honest,
To join and recognize in me their leader.
Choose—will you share with us an honest cause?
Or with the evil share an evil lot? 40

Butler (rises). His lot is mine.

Octavio. Is that your last resolve?

Butler. It is.

Octavio. Nay, but bethink you, Colonel Butler!
As yet you have time. Within my faithful breast
That rashly uttered word remains interred.
Recall it, Butler! choose a better party: 45
You have not chosen the right one.

Butler (going). Any other
Commands for me, Lieutenant-General?