Part 34 (1/2)

Do you hear, my lady?--That is the Chevalier's minister. ”What is the name of de ministre out dere, on de broad place?”

MAJ. T.

I am extremely obliged to you for your trouble.

ORD.

It is my duty, Major.

(Exit.)

SCENE VII.

Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

MAJ. T.

Ah! Minna, what is this? What does this contain?

MIN.

I am not ent.i.tled to extend my curiosity so far.

MAJ. T.

What! You would still separate my fate from yours?--But, why do I hesitate to open it? It cannot make me more unhappy than I am: no, dearest Minna, it cannot make us more unhappy--but perhaps more happy!

Permit me.

(While he opens and reads the letter, the Landlord comes stealthily on the stage.)

SCENE VIII.

Landlord, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

LAND. (to Franziska.) Hist! my pretty maid! A word!

FRAN. (to the Landlord).

Mr. Landlord, we do not yet know ourselves what is in the letter.

LAND.

Who wants to know about the letter! I come about the ring. The lady must give it to me again, directly. Just is there, and wants to redeem it.

MIN. (who in the meantime has approached the Landlord).

Tell Just that it is already redeemed; and tell him by whom--by me.

LAND.

But!!!!!

MIN.

I take it upon myself. Go!

(Exit Landlord.)

SCENE IX.

Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska