Minna, FranziskaMIN.

So that is your Sergeant, Franziska?

FRAN. (aside).

I have not time to reproach her for that jeering /your/.

(Aloud.)

Yes, my lady, that is my Sergeant. You think him, no doubt, somewhat stiff and wooden. He also appeared so to me just now; but I observed, he thought he must march past you as if on parade. And when soldiers are on parade, they certainly look more like wooden dolls than men.

You should see and hear him when he is himself.

MIN.

So I should, indeed!

FRAN.

He must still be in the next room; may I go and talk with him a little?

MIN.

I refuse you this pleasure unwillingly: but you must remain here, Franziska. You must be present at our conversation. Another thing occurs to me.

(Takes her ring from her finger.)

There, take my ring; keep it for me, and give me the Major's in the place of it.

FRAN.

Why so?

MIN. (whilst Franziska is fetching the ring).

I scarcely know, myself; but I fancy I see, beforehand, how I may make use of it. Some one is knocking. Give it to me, quickly.

(Puts the ring on.)

It is he.