No More Learning

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.

SICKINGEN: They have shamefully abused the imperial authority. I
know the emperor, and have some influence with him.
I shall want your
fist in an enterprise I am preparing. Meanwhile, they will let you and
your men return to your castle upon the promise not to move beyond
its confines. And the emperor will soon call you. Now back to the
wigs! They have had time enough to talk; let's save them the trouble!


ACT V

SCENE I. --_Forest_. GOETZ _and_ GEORGE.

GOETZ: No further! Another step and I should have broken my oath.
What is that dust beyond? And that wild mob moving towards us?

LERSE (_entering_): The rebel peasants. Back to the castle! They
have dealt horribly with the noblest men!

GOETZ: On my own soil I shall not try to evade the rabble.