Stumpf: If we had a leader of authority, such things would not happen. The princes and all Germany would thank you.
Sievers: You must be our captain, or you will have to defend your own skin. We give you two hours to
consider it.
Goetz: Why consider? I can decide now as well as later. Will you desist from your misdeeds, and act like decent folk who know what they want? Then I shall help you with your claims, and be your captain for four weeks. Now, come!
[Exeunt.
Scene II.—Landscape, with village and castle in distance. Goetz and George.
George: I beseech you, leave this infamous mob of robbers and incendiaries.
Goetz: We have done some good and saved many a convent, many a life.
George: Oh, sir, I beg you to leave them at once, before they drag you away with them as prisoner, instead of following you as captain! (Flames are seen rising from the distant village.) See there! A new crime!
Goetz: That is Miltenberg. Quick, George! Prevent the burning of the castle. I'll have nothing further to do with the scoundrels.
George: I shall save Miltenberg, or you will not see me again.