Morituri: Three One-Act Plays Part 7

Theodemir.

They who have their wives here, are gone to the Wagenburg.... There they will surely eat and drink and play with their children.

Teja.

And is thy wife here also?

Theodemir.

Yea, Sire!

Teja.

And thy children?

Theodemir.

Two boys, Sire!

Teja.

And thou didst not go?

Theodemir.

I waited on thy call, Sire.

Teja.

What hour is it?

Theodemir.

The ninth, Sire.

Teja.

And what do they who are free--the unmarried, and they whose wives are not here?

Theodemir.

They lie by the fires and are silent.

(_Exit_ Ildibad.)

Teja.

See to it that something is brought to them also. I already ordered it.

Will they sleep?

Theodemir.

No one will sleep.

Teja.

At midnight, come and fetch me.

Theodemir.

Yea, Sire. (_Makes as if to go_.)

Teja (_with a shade of anxiety_).

Theodemir, stay!... Thou hast always been my adversary.

Theodemir.

I was, Sire. For a long time I have ceased to be.

Teja (_stretches out his arms_).

Come! (_They hold each other in a close embrace; then they clasp hands_.) I would fain hold thee here, but truly thou must go to thy wife. (Ildibad _again enters_.) And forget not to have food brought to those who are gazing at the fires. They should have occupation.

Brooding profiteth not in such an hour.

Theodemir.

Yea, Sire. (_Exit_.)

_TENTH SCENE_.

TEJA. ILDIBAD.

Teja.

Now, my old man, we should have nothing further to do upon this earth.

Shall we talk?

Ildibad.

Sire, if I might beg a favour for myself.

Teja.

Still favours, at this time?... I believe thou wouldst flatter me, old companion!

Ildibad.