Podczaski.--Well, sir, I am going to come right to the point. You know
what services I have rendered the Countess Miliszewski?

Doctor.--Yes, you have been agitating against me in favor of Count
Miliszewski. Podczaski.--No, not at all, sir. Well, sir, it was so,
but I am going to change that, and you may be certain--

Doctor.--In a word, what do you wish, sir?

Podczaski.--God sees, sir, that I served the countess faithfully, and
it cost me quite a little, but on consulting my conscience I have
concluded not to act any more against such a man as you, sir, for the
sake of the country.

Doctor.--I appreciate your sentiments, which are those of a good
citizen. You do not wish to act against me any longer?

Podczaski.--No, sir!

Doctor.--You are right. Then you are with me?

Podczaski.--If I may offer my services--

Doctor.--I accept.

Podczaski (aside).--He is a man--I have a hundred florins in my pocket
already. (Aloud) My gratitude--

Doctor.--Mine will be shown after the election.

Podczaski.--Oh!

SCENE III.

The same. Jan Miliszewski--then Anton.

Jan.--Good-morning, doctor. Is my mother here?

Doctor.--The countess is not here.

Jan.--We came together, but mamma went directly to the prince's
apartment. I remained alone and I cannot find my way to the prince's
apartment. (Seeing Podczaski, who bows to him) Ah! Mr. Podczaski, what
are you doing here?

Podczaski.--Your servant, sir. Well, I came to consult the doctor--I
have rheumatism in my feet.

Jan.--Doctor, will you be kind enough to show me to the Prince's
apartment?

Doctor.--They are in the left wing of the chateau.

Jan.--Thank you. But later I would like to have a talk with you.

Doctor.--I will be at your service, sir.

(Jan goes toward the door. He knocks against Anton.)

Anton.--I beg your pardon, sir.

Jan.--Pardon (he adjusts his monocle and looks at Anton--then goes
out).

Anton (to Doctor).--I was told you were here and I rushed. Listen, a
matter of great importance. (Seeing Podczaski) What! You are here? Our
adversary here?

Podczaski (speaking in Anton's ear).--I am no longer your adversary.

Anton (looking at him).--So much the better then--but leave us alone
just the same.

Podczaski (aside).--Bad. (Aloud) Gentleman, do not forget me. (Aside)
The devil has taken my hundred florins. (He goes out.)

Anton.--What did he wish?

Doctor.--Money.

Anton.--Did you give it to him?

Doctor.--No.

Anton.--You