gives
himself out as a false player; he does not wish to appear under an
obligation to one; he wishes to save himself the thanks. Perhaps he
may now go, pay his small debts, live quietly and frugally on the rest
as far as it will go, and think no more of play. If that be so,
Franziska, let him come for recruits whenever he pleases.
(Gives her cup to Franziska.)
There, put it down! But, tell me, should not Tellheim be here by this
time?

FRAN.
No, my lady, I can neither find out the bad side in a good man, nor
the good side in a bad man.

MIN.
Surely he will come!

FRAN.
He ought to remain away! You remark in him--in him, the best of me--a
little pride; and therefore you intend to tease him so cruelly!

MIN.
Are you at it again? Be silent! I will have it so. Woe to you if you
spoil this fun of mine... if you do not say and do all, as we have
agreed. I will leave you with him alone; and then--but here he comes.

SCENE IV.

Paul Werner (comes in, carrying himself very erect as if on duty),
Minna, Franziska

FRAN.
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 Minna, without noticing Franziska).
Major von Tellheim begs to present, through me, Sergeant Werner, his
most respectful compliments to Fraulein von Barnhelm, and to inform
her that he will be here directly.

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 Franziska, and seriously).
Not here, little woman; it is against respect, against discipline.
... Your ladyship!!!!!

MIN.
Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance.
Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me.
(Werner makes a stiff bow, and goes.)