THE PRINCE. Go, and call your officer!
[He hastily takes a cloak from the wall and puts on a plumed hat lying on the table.]
HOHENZOLLERN (as he assists him)
Adroitly used, this step may spell salvation.
For if the Elector can but make the peace,
By the determined forfeit, with King Charles,
His heart, you soon shall see, will turn to you,
And in brief time you will be free once more.
SCENE II
The officer enters. The others as before.
THE PRINCE (to the officer).
Stranz, they have put me in your custody;
Grant me my freedom for an hour's time.
I have some urgent business on my mind.
OFFICER. Not in my custody are you, my lord.
The order given me declares that I
Shall leave you free to go where you desire.
THE PRINCE. Most odd! Then I am not a prisoner?
OFFICER. Your word of honor is a fetter, too.
HOHENZOLLERN (preparing to go).
'Twill do! No matter.