ORD.
I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
(taking one out of his bag).
MAJ. T.
To me?
ORD.
According to the direction.
MIN.
Franziska, do you hear? The Chevalier spoke the truth after all.
ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, but I could not find you out. I learnt your address this morning only from Lieutenant Riccaut, on parade.
FRAN.
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 entitled 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
FRAN.
And now, my lady, make it up with the poor Major.
MIN.
Oh! kind intercessor! As if the difficulties must not soon explain themselves.
MAJ. T. (after reading the letter, with much emotion.)