[Councillor makes a sign, and a bell is rung. Enter citizens with halberds and swords.
Councillor: You will not listen—seize him!
[They rush upon him. He strikes one down, and snatches
a sword from another. They stand aloof.
Goetz: Come on! I should like to become acquainted with the bravest among you.
[A trumpet is heard without. Enter Usher.
Usher: Franz von Sickingen is without and sends word that having heard how faith has been broken with his brother-in-law, he insists upon justice, or within an hour he will fire the four quarters of the town, and abandon it to be sacked by his men.
Goetz: Brave friend!
Councillor: YOU had best dissuade your brother-in-law from his rebellious intention. He will only become the companion of your fall! Meanwhile, we will consider how we can best uphold the emperor's authority.
[Exeunt all but Goetz. Enter Sickingen.
Goetz: That was help from heaven. I asked nothing but knightly ward upon my parole.