Part 13 (1/2)

MIN.

Yes, yes, his sister.

JUST.

I know better; the Major has not a sister. He has sent me twice in six months to his family in Courland. It is true there are different sorts of sisters!!!!!

FRAN.

Insolent!

JUST.

One must be so to get the people to let one alone.

(Exit.)

FRAN.

That is a rascal.

LAND.

So I said. But let him go! I know now where his master is. I will fetch him instantly myself. I only beg your ladys.h.i.+p, most humbly, that you will make an excuse for me to the Major, that I have been so unfortunate as to offend a man of his merit against my will.

MIN.

Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.

(Exit the Landlord.) Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!

(Exit Franziska.)

SCENE VII.

Minna, _and afterwards_ Franziska

MIN.

I have found him again!--Am I alone?--I will not be alone to no purpose.-- (Clasping her hands.) Yet I am not alone!

(Looking upwards.) One single grateful thought towards heaven, is the most perfect prayer! I have found him! I have found him!

(With outstretched arms.) I am joyful and happy! What can please the Creator more than a joyful creature!

(Franziska returns.) Have you returned, Franziska? You pity him! I do not pity him.

Misfortune too is useful. Perhaps heaven deprived him of everything-- to give him all again, through me!

FRAN.

He may be here at any moment.--You are still in your morning dress, my lady. Ought you not to dress yourself quickly?

MIN.

Not at all. He will now see me more frequently so, than dressed out.

FRAN.

Oh! you know, my lady, how you look best.

MIN. (after a pause).

Truly, girl, you have hit it again.

FRAN.

I think women who are beautiful, are most so when unadorned.