Act I. Scene IX. Lessing, Gotthold Ephraim. 1909-14. Minna von Barnhelm. The Harvard Classics

Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–1781). Minna von Barnhelm.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.

Act I

Scene IX


SERVANT, MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, JUST Ser. I say, comrade!	1
Just. What is the matter?	2
Ser. Can you direct me to the officer who lodged yesterday in that room? (pointing to the one out of which he is coming).	3
Just. That I could easily do. What have you got for him?	4
Ser. What we always have, when we have nothing-compliments. My mistress hears that he has been turned out on her account. My mistress knows good manners, and I am therefore to beg his pardon.	5
Just. Well then, beg his pardon; there he stands.	6
Ser. What is he? What is his name?	7
Maj. T. I have already heard your message, my friend. It is unnecessary politeness on the part of your mistress, which I beg to acknowledge duly. Present my compliments to her. What is the name of your mistress?	8
Ser. Her name! We call her my lady.	9
Maj. T. The name of her family?	10
Ser. I have not heard that yet, and it is not my business to ask. I manage so that I generally get a new master every six weeks. Hang all their names!	11
Just. Bravo, comrade!	12
Ser. I was engaged by my present mistress a few days ago, in Dresden. I believe she has come here to look for her lover.	13
Maj. T. Enough, friend. I wished to know the name of your mistress, not her secrets. Go!	14
Ser. Comrade, he would not do for my master.	15