Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–1781). Minna von Barnhelm.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.
Act IV
Scene IVFran.No, it is only his dear Sergeant.
Min.Dear Sergeant! Whom does the “dear” refer to?
Fran.Pray, my lady, do not make the man embarrassed. Your servant, Mr. Sergeant; what news do you bring us?
Wer.(goes up to M
Min.Where is he then?
Wer.Your ladyship will pardon him; we left our quarters before it began to strike three; but the paymaster met us on the way; and because conversation with those gentlemen has no end, the Major made me a sign to report the case to your ladyship.
Min.Very well, Mr. Sergeant. I only hope the paymaster may have good news for him.
Wer.Such gentlemen seldom have good news for officers.—Has your ladyship any orders?(Going.)
Fran.Why, where are you going again, Mr. Sergeant? Had not we something to say to each other?
Wer.(In a whisper to F
Min.Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance. Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me. (W