Well, so they do.
COLONEL.
The richest heiress in the whole district! Courted by a host of
adorers, yet so firmly intrenched against all sentiment; no one can
comprehend it.
ADELAIDE.
My dear Colonel, if our young gentlemen were as lovable as certain
older ones--but, alas! they are not.
COLONEL.
You shan't escape me. We shall hold you fast in town, until we find
one among our young men whom you will deem worthy to be enrolled under
your command. For whoever be your chosen husband, he will have the
same experience I have had--namely, that, first or last, he will have
to do your bidding.
ADELAIDE (_quickly_).
Will you do my bidding with regard to Ida and the professor? Now I
have you!
COLONEL.
Will you do me the favor of choosing your husband this winter while
you are with us? Yes? Now I have _you_!
ADELAIDE.
It's a bargain! Shake hands! [_Holds out her hand to him._]
COLONEL (_puts his hand in hers, laughing_).
Well, you're outwitted.
[_Exit through centre door._]
ADELAIDE (_alone_).
I don't think I am. What, Mr. Conrad Bolz! Is that your reputation
among people! You live an irregular life? You have loose morals? You
are an evil genius?--
_Enter_ KORB.
KORB (_through the centre door with a package_).
Where shall I put the account-books and the papers, Miss Adelaide?
ADELAIDE.
In my apartment. Tell me, dear Korb, did you find your room here in
order?
KORB.
In the finest order. The servant has given me two wax candles; it is
pure extravagance.
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