TENTH SCENE.

THE SAME. FRAU VON DROSSE.

Frau von Drosse.

Ah--Herr von Hallerpfort! (He kisses her hand.) How does this happen? Two lieutenants in the house at the same time--if that doesn't bring luck!

Fritz (quickly).

We have orders together, mamma.

Hallerpfort.

And alas, madam, we have to be off this very minute.

Frau von Drosse.

How is that? Then I don't have my full hour? And now everything is so beautifully arranged.... Fritz, my dear Hallerpfort--just a bite, won't you?... Richard, dear, come to my aid.

Major.

But, dear child, service is service.

Fritz (with quick decision).

So, good-bye, mamma!

Frau von Drosse (embracing him).

My boy--you will soon have furlough, won't you?

Fritz.

Yes indeed, mamma! After the manœuvres. Then we are free. Then we will be merry!

Frau von Drosse.

And Hallerpfort is coming with you, isn't he?

Hallerpfort.

With your permission, madam.

Major (softly, to Agnes).

Take leave of him! You will never see him again!

Fritz.

(Stretching out his hand cheerfully to her.) Dear Ag-- (Looks into her face, and understands that she knows. Softly, earnestly.) Farewell, then.

Agnes.

Farewell, Fritz!

Fritz.

I love you.

Agnes.

I shall always love you, Fritz!

Fritz.

Away then, Hallerpfort! Au revoir, papa! Au revoir! Revoir! (Starts for the door on the right.)

Frau von Drosse.

Go by the park, boys--there I have you longer in sight.

Fritz.

Very well, mamma, we will do it! (Passes with Hallerpfort through the door at the centre; on the terrace, he turns with a cheerful gesture, and calls once more.) Au revoir! (His voice is still audible.) Au revoir!

(Frau von Drosse throws kisses after him, and waves her handkerchief, then presses her hand wearily to her heart and sighs heavily.)