Part 30 (1/2)

FRAN.

I advise nothing. But certainly he goes rather too far.

MAJ. T. (approaching to interrupt them).

You are angry, Madam.

MIN. (ironically).

I? Not in the least.

MAJ. T.

If I loved you less!!!!!

MIN. (still in the same tone).

Oh! certainly, it would be a misfortune for me. And hear, Major, I also will not be the cause of your unhappiness. One should love with perfect disinterestedness. It is as well that I have not been more open! Perhaps your pity might have granted to me what your love refuses.

(Drawing the ring slowly from her finger.)

MAJ. T.

What does this mean, Madam?

MIN.

No, neither of us must make the other either more or less happy. True love demands it. I believe you, Major; and you have too much honour to mistake love.

MAJ. T.

Are you jesting, Madam?

MIN.

Here! take back the ring with which you plighted your troth to me.

(Gives him the ring.) Let it be so! We will suppose we have never met.

MAJ. T.

What do I hear?

MIN.

Does it surprise you? Take it, sir. You surely have not been pretending only!

MAJ. T. (takes the ring from her).

Heavens! can Minna speak thus?

MIN.

In one case you cannot be mine; in no case can I be yours. Your misfortune is probable; mine is certain. Farewell!

(Is going.)

MAJ. T.

Where are you going, dearest Minna?

MIN.

Sir, you insult me now by that term of endearment.

MAJ. T.