[_Exit_.]
ADELAIDE (_alone_).
He still loves me! He is a man with feeling and generosity. But he,
too, is resigned. They are all _ill_--these men! They have no courage!
From pure learning and introspection they have lost all confidence in
themselves. This Conrad! Why doesn't he say to me: "Adelaide, I want
you to be my wife?" He can be brazen enough when he wants to! God
forbid! He philosophizes about my kind of happiness and his kind of
happiness! It was all very fine, but sheer nonsense.--My young
country-squires are quite different. They have no great burden of
wisdom and have more whims and prejudices than they ought to; but they
do their hating and loving thoroughly and boldly, and never forget
their own advantage. They are the better for it! Praised be the
country, the fresh air, and my broad acres! [_Pause; with decision_.]
The _Union_ is to be sold! Conrad must come to the country to get rid
of his crotchets! [_Sits down and writes; rings; enter_ CARL.] Take
this note to Judge Schwarz; I want him kindly to come to me on urgent
business.
[_Exit_ CARL.]
_Enter_ IDA _through the side door on the left_.
IDA.
I am too restless to keep still! Let me cry here to my heart's
content! [_Weeps on_ ADELAIDE'S _neck_.]
ADELAIDE (_tenderly_).
Poor child! The bad men have been very cruel to you. It's all right
for you to grieve, darling, but don't be so still and resigned!
IDA.
I have but the one thought: he is lost to me--lost forever!
ADELAIDE.
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