ACT IV
SCENE I
Minna's Room.
Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
(They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.)
FRAN.
You cannot possibly have eaten enough, my lady.
MIN.
Don't you think so, Franziska? Perhaps I had no appetite when I sat down.
FRAN.
We had agreed not to mention him during dinner. We should have resolved likewise, not to think of him.
MIN.
Indeed, I have thought of nothing but him.
FRAN.
So I perceived. I began to speak of a hundred different things, and you made wrong answers to each.
(Another servant brings coffee.)
Here comes a beverage more suited to fancies—sweet, melancholy coffee.
MIN.
Fancies! I have none. I am only thinking of the lesson I will give him. Did you understand my plan, Franziska?
FRAN.
Oh! yes; but it would be better if he spared us the putting it in execution.
MIN.
You will see that I know him thoroughly. He who refuses me now with all my wealth, will contend for me against the whole world, as soon as he hears that I am unfortunate and friendless.
FRAN. (seriously).
That must tickle the most refined self-love.
MIN.
You moralist! First you convict me of vanity—now of self-love. Let me do as I please, Franziska. You, too, shall do as you please with your Sergeant.
FRAN.
With my Sergeant?
MIN.
Yes. If you deny it altogether, then it is true. I have not seen him yet; but from all you have said respecting him, I foretell your husband for you.
