A lime tree in front of STAUFFACHER's house at Steinen, in Schwytz, upon the public road, near a bridge.
WERNER STAUFFACHER, and PFEIFFER, of Lucerne, enter into conversation.
PFEIFF.
Ay, ay, friend Stauffacher, as I have said,
Swear not to Austria, if you can help it.
Hold by the Empire stoutly as of yore,
And God preserve you in your ancient freedom!
[Presses his hand warmly and is going.]
STAUFF.
Wait till my mistress comes. Now do! You are
My guest in Schwytz—I in Lucerne am yours.
PFEIFF.
Thanks! thanks! But I must reach Gersau today.
Whatever grievances your rulers' pride
And grasping avarice may yet inflict,
Bear them in patience—soon a change may come.
Another Emperor may mount the throne.
But Austria's once, and you are hers forever.
[Exit.]