How, my lord—
How can you treat in such a way a man
On whom God's hand has plainly been reveal'd?
GESSLER.
Well, let us see if it will save him twice!
Remove him to my ship; I'll follow straight;
At Küssnacht I will see him safely lodged.
RÖSSEL.
You dare not do't. Nor durst the Emperor's self
So violate our dearest chartered rights.
GESSLER.
Where are they? Has the Emp'ror confirm'd them?
He never has. And only by obedience
May you that favor hope to win from him.
You are all rebels 'gainst the Emp'ror's power—
And bear a desperate and rebellious spirit.
I know you all—I see you through and through.
Him do I single from amongst you now,
But in his guilt you all participate.
If you are wise, be silent and obey!
[Exit, followed by BERTHA, RUDENZ, HARRAS, and attendants. FRIESSHARDT and LEUTHOLD remain.]
FÜRST (in violent anguish).
All's over now! He is resolved to bring
Destruction on myself and all my house.