Part 38 (1/2)

Oh you actresses! But I ought to have known you.

FRAN.

Not I, indeed; I am spoilt for acting. I trembled and shook, and was obliged to hold my lips together with my hand.

MIN.

Nor was mine an easy part.--But come now!!!!!

MAJ. T.

I have not recovered myself yet. How happy, yet how anxious, I feel.

It is like awaking suddenly from a frightful dream.

MIN.

We are losing time... I hear him coming now.

SCENE XIII.

Count von Bruchsal (accompanied by several servants and the Landlord), Two Servants, Werner, Just, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

COUNT. (entering).

She arrived in safety, I hope?

MIN. (running to meet him).

Ah! my father!

COUNT.

Here I am, dear Minna (embracing her).

But what, girl (seeing Tellheim), only four-and-twenty hours here, and friends--company already!

MIN.

Guess who it is?

COUNT.

Not your Tellheim, surely!

MIN.

Who else!--Come, Tellheim (introducing him).

COUNT.

Sir, we have never met; but at the first glance I fancied I recognised you. I wished it might be Major von Tellheim.--Your hand, sir; you have my highest esteem; I ask for your friends.h.i.+p. My niece, my daughter loves you.

MIN.

You know that, my father!--And was my love blind?

COUNT.

No, Minna, your love was not blind; but your lover--is dumb.

MAJ. T. (throwing himself in the Count's arms).

Let me recover myself, my father!