Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–1781). Minna von Barnhelm.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.
Act IV
Scene I(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.