But Adelaide, what if it really would be better for the country to
have Oldendorf elected?
ADELAIDE.
Yes, dearest, in that case there is no help for the country. Our State
and the rest of the European nations must learn to get along without
the professor. You have yourself to attend to first of all; you wish
to marry him; you come first.
[_Enter_ CARL.]
What news, Carl?
CARL.
Mr. von Senden presents his compliments and reports 47 to 42. The head
of the election committee, he says, has already congratulated him.
COLONEL.
Congratulated? Lay out my uniform, ask for the key of the wine-cellar,
and set the table; we are likely to have visitors this evening.
CARL.
Yes, Colonel.
[_Exit_.]
COLONEL (_to himself in the foreground_).
Now, my young professor! My style does not please you? It may be that
you are right. I grant you are a better journalist. But here, where it
is a serious matter, you will find yourself in the wrong, just for
once. [_Pause_.] I may be obliged to say a few words this evening. It
used to be said of me in the regiment, indeed, that I could always
speak to the point, but these manoeuvres in civilian dress disconcert
me a little. Let's think it over! It will be only proper for me to
mention Oldendorf in my speech, of course with due respect and
appreciation; yes indeed, I must do that. He is an honest fellow, with
an excellent heart, and a scholar with fine judgment. And he can be
very amiable if you disregard his political theories.
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