MIN.
  And that some minister or other had told him, in confidence, that your
  business was likely to have the very best termination. A letter from
  the king must now be on its way to you. FRAN.
  Yes; and here I bring you...
  (holding out a letter).

  MAJ. T.
  An answer! ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). (While he opens and reads the letter, the Landlord comes stealthily on
  the stage.) ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
  I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, forces told me that the king had set aside all the evidence offered
  against me, and that I might take back my promise, which I had given
  in writing, not to depart from here until acquitted. But that will be MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, that I have not received the letter. Behold my only answer to it!
  (About to tear it up.) allowed herself to be persuaded either to increase or to assuage the
  misfortune of her friend through herself.... He must have seen,
  before the arrival of that letter, which has again destroyed all coeur bien place! He assure me au reste, if de Major has not recu
  already une lettre de la main--a royal letter, dat to-day
  infailliblement must he receive one. talking again, of things which I would willingly forget. There, give
  it to her!
  (He turns the letter in giving it to her, and sees that it has been
  opened.) let me hear from you. Your news might come to me when it might be of
  little use to me. There is yet one thing, Madam; I had nearly MAJ. T.
  I cannot keep you any longer: I must learn to manage without servants.
  (Opens the paper, and reads.) of your taking active service again. I can ill spare a man of your
    courage and sentiments. I am your gracious King," &c. MAJ. T.
  Well, if I must come, Franziska, just see that your mistress reads my
  letter beforehand? That will spare me the pain of thinking again--of SCENE I.
  The Parlour. Just (with a letter in his hand) MAJ. T. (after reading the letter, with much emotion.)
  Ah! nor has he herein belied himself! Oh! Minna, what justice! what (Looking at the letter, as if to convince himself.)
  No, no delusion born of my own desires! Read it yourself, Minna; read
  it yourself! MIN.
  So much the better! His letter! oh! his letter! Each line spoke the
  honourable noble man. Each refusal to accept my hand declared his love FRAN.
  Pray, my lady, do not make the man embarrassed. Your servant, Mr.
  Sergeant; what news do you bring us?
thing your Minna was--is. She allowed--allows herself, to imagine that
  she makes your whole happiness. Declare all your misery at once. She SCENE I.
  Minna's Room.

   Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
    (They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.) my own again. Now, my dear unfortunate, you love me still, and have
  your Minna still, and are unhappy? Hear what a conceited, foolish (Minna turns away uneasily, and endeavours to hide her emotion.) MIN.
  At first, only with a trifle.
  (Opens her desk and takes out some money.)

  RIC.
  Ah! Mademoiselle, que vous etes charmante! torturing!--If she is in earnest, she will not refuse to forgive me.
  Now I want your aid, honest Werner!--No, Minna, I am no deceiver!
  (Rushes off.) he was a beggar!
  (Minna pours out the coffee herself.)
  Who would give such a sum to a beggar? And to endeavour, into the MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have return mistaken by the beggar. It serves you right, my lady, if he
  considers your gift as--I know not what.
  (Minna hands a cup of coffee to Franziska.) MIN.
  See there! Do you begin to pity him again already! No, silly girl, a
  man is never discarded for a single fault. No; but I have thought of a service of the great is dangerous, and does not repay the trouble, the
  restraint, the humiliation which it costs. Minna is not amongst those
  vain people who love nothing in their husbands beyond their titles and FRAN.
  Do not detain me any longer. I must see what she is about. How easily
  something might happen to her. Go now, and come again, if you like.
  (Follows Minna.) FRAN.
  That is just what I wished to hear.

  MIN.
  Wait, Franziska; I am wrong. He often talks of economy. Between
  ourselves, I believe he is extravagant. without humiliation. I am this cause; through me, Minna, have you lost
  friends and relations, fortune and country. Through me, in me, must MIN.
  Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance.
  Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me.
  (Werner makes a stiff bow, and goes.) he loves to take part in his misfortune... Oh! how difficult is
  this victory!... Since reason and necessity have commanded me to
  forget Minna von Barnhelm, what pains have I taken! I was just MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska MAJ. T. (to Just).
  What do you say?... That is not possible!... You?
  (Looking fiercely at Minna.)
  Speak it out; tell it to her face. Listen, Madam.
he loves to take part in his misfortune... Oh! how difficult is
  this victory!... Since reason and necessity have commanded me to
  forget Minna von Barnhelm, what pains have I taken! I was just The importance of Lessing's masterpiece in comedy, "Minna von
Barnhelm," is difficult to exaggerate. It was the beginning of worthy, in the eyes of the world, of being yours. Minna von Barnhelm
  deserves an irreproachable husband. It is a worthless love which does End of Project Gutenberg's Minna von Barnhelm, by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing Am I to pardon you because I am still your Minna? Heaven pardon you,
  that I am still Fraulein von Barnhelm! MIN.
  Fraulein von Barnhelm.

  LAND. (writes).
  "Von Barnhelm." Coming from.... where, your ladyship? MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have MAJ. T. (letting fall her hand).
  What is this? I see Fraulein von Barnhelm, but I do not hear her.--You
  are pretending.--Pardon me, that I use your own words. MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! JUST.
  The Landlord says, that Fraulein von Barnhelm has taken the ring which
  I pledged to him; she recognised it as her own, and would not return
  it. MIN.
  You know that, my father!--And was my love blind?

  COUNT.
  No, Minna, your love was not blind; but your lover--is dumb. MAJ. T. (starts suddenly, and draws back).
  I beg your pardon, Fraulein von Barnhelm; but to meet you here!!!!! "Fraulein von Barnhelm, coming from her estate in Thuringia, together
  with her lady in waiting and two men servants." MINNA VON BARNHELM

or, THE SOLDIER'S FORTUNE


By Gotthold Ephraim Lessing MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Minna, and Franziska MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska talk about me, and say. "That is she, that is the Fraulein von
  Barnhelm, who fancied that because she was rich could marry the noble MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska
you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim LAND.
  Yes, Tellheim. Do you know him? sovereign, Tellheim; you want no other master. To find you discharged,
  is a piece of good fortune I dared scarcely dream of! But you are not SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim about Tellheim. Franziska, my heart tells me my journey will be a
  successful one and that I shall find him. SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. yourself. I do love you still, Tellheim, I love you still; but
  notwithstanding!!!!! SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just
MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! sovereign, Tellheim; you want no other master. To find you discharged,
  is a piece of good fortune I dared scarcely dream of! But you are not MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! about Tellheim. Franziska, my heart tells me my journey will be a
  successful one and that I shall find him. LAND.
  Yes, Tellheim. Do you know him? SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim
MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
  I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, MIN.
  All officers are not Tellheims. To tell you the truth, I only sent him
  the message in order to have an opportunity of inquiring from him MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the MIN. (alarmed).
  Of what are you thinking, Tellheim? It is time to break off. Come!
  (taking him by the hand).
  Franziska, let the carriage be brought round. SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN.
  Do I know him! He is here! Tellheim here! He had this room! He! he
  pledged this ring with you! What has brought him into this sovereign, Tellheim; you want no other master. To find you discharged,
  is a piece of good fortune I dared scarcely dream of! But you are not
MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, (While he opens and reads the letter, the Landlord comes stealthily on
  the stage.) MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
  I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) LAND.
  Yes, Tellheim. Do you know him? talking again, of things which I would willingly forget. There, give
  it to her!
  (He turns the letter in giving it to her, and sees that it has been
  opened.) FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! yourself. I do love you still, Tellheim, I love you still; but
  notwithstanding!!!!! SCENE X.
  Franziska (with a letter in her hand), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  FRAN.
  Major!!!!! MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska about Tellheim. Franziska, my heart tells me my journey will be a
  successful one and that I shall find him. SCENE VIII.
  Landlord, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  LAND. (to Franziska.)
  Hist! my pretty maid! A word!
FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he SCENE VI.
  An Orderly, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  FRAN. (seeing the Orderly).
  Hist, Major! MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.)
Persia, and will break into the Ottoman Porte in a few days? Thank
  God, there is still war somewhere in the world! I have long enough LAND.
  They would have been rewarded if they had lived so as to deserve it.
  But they lived during the war as if it would last for ever; as if the WER.
  Oh! my dear Major! The day after to-morrow! Why not to-morrow? I will
  get everything ready. In Persia, Major, there is a famous war; what do
  you say? hoped it would break out here again. But there they sit and take care
  of their skins. No, a soldier I was, and a soldier I must be again! In which the latter, its opposite, may have occasioned. Peace should not
  be so capricious!... How long have we had peace? The time seems WER.
  Really? But where there is war, Major!

  MAJ. T.
  To be sure. Go, Werner, we will speak of this again. FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! MAJ. T.
  It has happened, as it must happen. The great ones are convinced that
  a soldier does very little through regard for them, not much more from A well-to-do man, and a bachelor still. He has a nice little freehold
  three miles from here. He made prize-money in the war, and was a Brother, I believe you read the newspapers as little as the Bible. You
  do not know Prince Heraclius. Not know the brave man who seized FRAN.
  We had agreed not to mention him during dinner. We should have
  resolved likewise, not to think of him.

  MIN.
  Indeed, I have thought of nothing but him. RIC.
  Si, le ministre of de war departement. Dere I have eat my dinner; I
  ordinary dine dere, and de conversation did fall on Major Tellheim; et you Landlords, so civil during the war? Why was every officer an
  honourable man then and every soldier a worthy, brave fellow? Does
  this bit of a peace make you so bumptious? ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  You see, we have not yet had an opportunity of mentioning the most
  important matters even. He is coming here to-day. It was accident that
  brought me here without him, a day sooner. JUST.
  Have no fear, Major!

  MAJ. T. (comes back).
  Above all things, do not let my pistols be forgotten, which hang
  beside the bed. FRAN.
  Compose yourself, my lady, I hear footsteps.

  MIN.
  Compose myself! What! receive him composedly? LADY.
  I have just risen from a sick bed, to which grief on the loss of my
  husband brought me. I am troubling you at a very early hour, Major von MIN.
  Well, what then?

  LAND.
  Who is almost done for.

  MIN.
  So much the worse! He is said to be a very deserving man. MAJ. T.
  We will think of it. Only go, Werner!

  WER.
  Hurrah! Long live Prince Heraclius!
  (Exit.)
FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim, Franziska

  MAJ. T.
  Her tears? And I am to leave her.
  (Is about to follow her.) SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.)
(While he opens and reads the letter, the Landlord comes stealthily on
  the stage.) as soon as you pleased. The sealed purse... five hundred thalers in
  louis d'ors marked on it--which your honour had in your writing-desk
  ... is in good keeping. LAND.
  What, girl! how can you suspect me of that? There is nothing so bad in
  a landlord as curiosity. I had not been here long, when suddenly her LAND.
  Really, I was quite alarmed when I found the purse. I always
  considered your honour a methodical and prudent man, who never got LAND. (putting his head in at the door).
  Am I permitted, your ladyship?

  FRAN.
  Our landlord?--Come in! JUST.
  No money! What is that purse then with five hundred thalers' worth of
  louis d'ors, which the Landlord found in your desk? Shame, Landlord, to have such good Dantzig, and such bad manners! To
  turn out of his room, in his absence--a man like my master, who has guard with them. I have come off pretty well with this one. If he had
  no more money, he had at any rate money's worth; and I might indeed LAND.
  Wait a bit, my pretty maid.

  FRAN.
  I have not time now, Mr. Landlord. "What my master, the Major, owes me:--Three months and a half wages,
  six thalers per month, is 21 thalers. During the first part of this talking again, of things which I would willingly forget. There, give
  it to her!
  (He turns the letter in giving it to her, and sees that it has been
  opened.) FRAN.
  Indeed! Well, good-bye, Mr. Landlord. Shall we have dinner soon?

  LAND.
  My dear girl, not to forget what I came to say!!!!! LAND.
  Quite right, my pretty maid; I will bear that in mind, in case of
  future inquiries. But now, your ladyship, your business here?

  MIN.
  My business here? are a hundred louis d'ors; and in this packet
  (drawing it out of another pocket)
  a hundred ducats. All his money! FRAN.
  A hundred pistoles? I thought it was only eighty.

  LAND.
  True, only ninety, only ninety. I will do so, my pretty maid, I will
  do so. or whatever he pleases. He must have money, and it is bad enough that
  they have made his own so troublesome to him. But I know what I would WER.
  Indeed! I tell you what, little woman, you are twice as pretty now as
  you were before. But what are the services, which the landlord says he
  has rendered our Major? MIN.
  Bring him here directly. When he sees us he will go fast enough.
  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE V.
  Minna, Franziska MIN. (looking at it).
  Good heavens! What do I see? This ring!!!!!

  LAND.
  Is honestly worth fifteen hundred thalers. SCENE II.
  Landlord, Just
WER.
  What, has the Major money still?

  JUST.
  No.

  WER.
  Has he borrowed any? MAJ. T.
  What more do you require to tranquillize you, than my assurance that
  the money does not belong to me? Or do you wish that I should rob the MAJ. T. (pointing to the purse which Werner had thrown down).
  Here, Just, pick up the purse and carry it home. Go!
  (Just takes it up and goes.) MAJ. T. (angrily striking his forehead, and stamping with his foot.)
  That... the four hundred thalers are not all there.

  WER.
  Come! Major, did not you understand me? LADY.
  Generous man! But do not think so meanly of me. Take the money, Major,
  and then at least I shall be at ease. suppose, to find the Major. He will not have my money, but rather
  pawns his property. That is just his way. A little trick occurs to me. MAJ. T.
  That is money given into my charge.

  JUST.
  Not the hundred pistoles which your old sergeant brought you four or
  five weeks back? LAND.
  Only half a moment! No further tidings of the Major? That surely could
  not possibly be his leave-taking!

  FRAN.
  What could not? FRAN.
  What! Has the Major any money? the Major's place. If he did not want him any longer as huntsman, he
  was still a useful fellow. Where has he found him a place? WER.
  I beg you, Major.

  MAJ. T.
  How often must I tell you? I do not want your money! by, if I do not go to Persia. But she was gone; and no doubt she has
  not been able to pay the Major. Yes, I'll do that; and the sooner the MAJ. T.
  Poor, good woman! I must not forget to destroy the bill.
  (Takes some papers from his pocketbook and destroys them.) Major, and punctually at three.... Well, you wanted to speak to me
  too alone. What have you to say to me? Oh! we are not alone.
  (Looking at Werner.) MAJ. T.
  Werner, go and give Just the hundred louis d'ors. Let him redeem the guard with them. I have come off pretty well with this one. If he had
  no more money, he had at any rate money's worth; and I might indeed MAJ. T.
  No, Madam. Marloff a debtor to me! that can hardly be. Let us look,
  however.
  (Takes out a pocketbook, and searches.)
  I find nothing of the kind. MAJ. T.
  And alone? Without me? Where to?

  FRAN.
  Have you forgotten, Major? MAJ. T.
  I do not want your news now; I want your money. Quick, Werner, give me
  all you have; and then raise as much more as you can. WER.
  Hist! Here are a hundred ducats, which I received yesterday towards
  the payment: I am bringing them for the Major.

  JUST.
  What is he to do with them?
Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) WER.
  I beg you, Major.

  MAJ. T.
  How often must I tell you? I do not want your money! you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MAJ. T.
  Do not be annoyed, Werner. I know your heart, and your affection for
  me. But I do not require your money. ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) WER. (goes up to Minna, without noticing Franziska).
  Major von Tellheim begs to present, through me, Sergeant Werner, his JUST.
  Werner, you mean it well; but we don't want your money. Keep your
  ducats; and your hundred pistoles you can also have back safe, as soon
  as you please. WER.
  I have brought more money! A thousand pistoles!

  MAJ. T.
  I do not want them! MAJ. T.
  This only applies partly to you. Go, Werner!
  (Pushing back Werner's hand with the money in it.) when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the MIN.
  No, Tellheim, I do not mean that! I send you back into the busy world,
  on the road of honour, without wishing to accompany you. Tellheim will MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). WER.
  That will be the reason. From a loving hand! Yes, yes; such a thing
  often puts one in mind of what one does not wish to remember, and
  therefore one gets rid of it. MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!!
you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska LAND.
  Yes, Tellheim. Do you know him? Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). suppose, to find the Major. He will not have my money, but rather
  pawns his property. That is just his way. A little trick occurs to me. more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the SCENE III.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Just

  MAJ. T. (entering).
  Just! SCENE VIII.
  Landlord, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  LAND. (to Franziska.)
  Hist! my pretty maid! A word! MIN.
  Sir, your mistake is quite excusable, and your astonishment very
  natural. Major von Tellheim has had the kindness to give up his
  apartments to me, as a stranger, who was not able to get them
  elsewhere. SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter Tellheim, but I am going into the country, where a kind, but also
  unfortunate friend, has for the present offered me an asylum. FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.)
MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone about Tellheim. Franziska, my heart tells me my journey will be a
  successful one and that I shall find him. MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous yourself. I do love you still, Tellheim, I love you still; but
  notwithstanding!!!!! FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. you. I wished it might be Major von Tellheim.--Your hand, sir; you
  have my highest esteem; I ask for your friendship. My niece, my
  daughter loves you. SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner).
MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. MIN. (alarmed).
  Of what are you thinking, Tellheim? It is time to break off. Come!
  (taking him by the hand).
  Franziska, let the carriage be brought round. MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. MIN.
  Sir, your mistake is quite excusable, and your astonishment very
  natural. Major von Tellheim has had the kindness to give up his
  apartments to me, as a stranger, who was not able to get them
  elsewhere. SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! Minna, what is this? What does this contain? he loves to take part in his misfortune... Oh! how difficult is
  this victory!... Since reason and necessity have commanded me to
  forget Minna von Barnhelm, what pains have I taken! I was just MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have
MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! SCENE I.
  Minna's Room.

   Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
    (They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.) SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska MAJ. T. (starting up, and looking fiercely about him).
  Who dare say that! Ah! Minna, I feel afraid of myself, when I imagine MAJ. T.
  Now, what do you say to that, Minna?

  MIN. (folding up and returning the letter).
  I? Nothing. MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) FRAN.
  The same to you! I really believe, I like that man!
  (Going in, she meets Minna coming out.) FRAN.
  Do not detain me any longer. I must see what she is about. How easily
  something might happen to her. Go now, and come again, if you like.
  (Follows Minna.) MAJ. T. (to Just).
  What do you say?... That is not possible!... You?
  (Looking fiercely at Minna.)
  Speak it out; tell it to her face. Listen, Madam. MAJ. T.
  Where are you going, dearest Minna?

  MIN.
  Sir, you insult me now by that term of endearment. MIN.
  Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance.
  Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me.
  (Werner makes a stiff bow, and goes.) MAJ. T.
  No more, dearest Minna, no more!
  (Seizes her hand again, to put on the ring.) feel myself ready and capable of undertaking anything for her sake.
  Why do I tarry?
  (Is going towards Minna's room, when Franziska comes out of it.) MIN. (sees the Landlord, and makes a sign to Franziska).
  Sir!!!!!

  MAJ. T.
  If we are not both mistaken!!!!! FRAN.
  Come in!



  SCENE II.
  Landlord, Minna, Franziska MAJ. T.
  You will take it again? Ah! now I am happy... Here, Minna
  (taking it from his pocket). service of the great is dangerous, and does not repay the trouble, the
  restraint, the humiliation which it costs. Minna is not amongst those
  vain people who love nothing in their husbands beyond their titles and MIN. (speaking as she comes out, as if not aware of the Major's
  presence).
  The carriage is at the door, Franziska, is it not? My fan! MAJ. T.
  Ah! that friendly tone tells me you are yourself again, Minna: that
  you still love me. MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III.
MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN. (alarmed).
  Of what are you thinking, Tellheim? It is time to break off. Come!
  (taking him by the hand).
  Franziska, let the carriage be brought round. MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! certainly as you have taken back that same ring, so certainly shall
  the unfortunate Minna never be the wife of the fortunate Tellheim! MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter No, this is too bad... Only listen!... You are mistaken!... A
  mere misunderstanding. Tellheim, will you not hear your Minna? Can you MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MIN.
  Tellheim, what visions are you conjuring up! Be calm, and listen to
  me.

  FRAN. (aside).
  Now she will catch it!
MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? MIN. (alarmed).
  Of what are you thinking, Tellheim? It is time to break off. Come!
  (taking him by the hand).
  Franziska, let the carriage be brought round. MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, COUNT.
  Here I am, dear Minna
  (embracing her).
  But what, girl
  (seeing Tellheim),
  only four-and-twenty hours here, and friends--company already! MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska No, this is too bad... Only listen!... You are mistaken!... A
  mere misunderstanding. Tellheim, will you not hear your Minna? Can you MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MAJ. T. (to Just).
  What do you say?... That is not possible!... You?
  (Looking fiercely at Minna.)
  Speak it out; tell it to her face. Listen, Madam.
SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) FRAN.
  Without doubt, my lady, this gentleman expects to find Major von
  Tellheim here still. MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  Sir, your mistake is quite excusable, and your astonishment very
  natural. Major von Tellheim has had the kindness to give up his
  apartments to me, as a stranger, who was not able to get them
  elsewhere. MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) SCENE III.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Just

  MAJ. T. (entering).
  Just! MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have
LAND.
  Major! Right! he is a Major, who had this room before you, and from
  whom I received it.

  MIN.
  Major von Tellheim! LAND.
  But suppose I really wanted the room and saw beforehand that the Major
  would willingly have given it up if we could only have waited some MAJ. T.
  Fraulein...
  (Looks fixedly at the Landlord, and shrugs his shoulders.) the Major's place. If he did not want him any longer as huntsman, he
  was still a useful fellow. Where has he found him a place? forget the lesson. Ah! our unfortunate Major!
  (Turns round to enter her mistress' room, when the Landlord comes.) (While he opens and reads the letter, the Landlord comes stealthily on
  the stage.) LAND.
  Only half a moment! No further tidings of the Major? That surely could
  not possibly be his leave-taking!

  FRAN.
  What could not? LAND.
  Really, I was quite alarmed when I found the purse. I always
  considered your honour a methodical and prudent man, who never got MAJ. T.
  Poor, good woman! I must not forget to destroy the bill.
  (Takes some papers from his pocketbook and destroys them.) apartments again. The Major cannot and will not let her have his room.
  It is his; she must go; I cannot help it. I will go, honoured sir!!!!! MAJ. T.
  No, Madam. Marloff a debtor to me! that can hardly be. Let us look,
  however.
  (Takes out a pocketbook, and searches.)
  I find nothing of the kind. LAND.
  One is peevish, if one can't have one's proper rest. What will you bet
  the Major has not returned home, and you have been keeping watch for
  him? LAND.
  What, girl! how can you suspect me of that? There is nothing so bad in
  a landlord as curiosity. I had not been here long, when suddenly her Shame, Landlord, to have such good Dantzig, and such bad manners! To
  turn out of his room, in his absence--a man like my master, who has JUST.
  I thought I was "Herr Just" with you.

  LAND. (seeing the Major).
  Hist! hist! Herr Just, Herr Just, look round; your master!!!!! MAJ. T.
  I cannot keep you any longer: I must learn to manage without servants.
  (Opens the paper, and reads.) it, Major; really not. And we do not wish to read it, because the
  writer is coming himself. Come; and I tell you what, Major! don't come JUST. (supposing the Landlord is still speaking).
  Just? Are we so intimate?

  MAJ. T.
  Just! MAJ. T.
  More than enough, sir! I am in your debt; you turn out my room in my
  absence. You must be paid, I must seek a lodging elsewhere. Very
  natural. MAJ. T.
  You would have treated me rather more civilly. I understand you. Go,
  sir; leave me. I wish to speak with my servant.

  LAND.
  But, honoured sir!!!!!
when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim, Franziska

  MAJ. T.
  Her tears? And I am to leave her.
  (Is about to follow her.) SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter?
you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? suppose, to find the Major. He will not have my money, but rather
  pawns his property. That is just his way. A little trick occurs to me. FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? sovereign, Tellheim; you want no other master. To find you discharged,
  is a piece of good fortune I dared scarcely dream of! But you are not MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  Do I know him! He is here! Tellheim here! He had this room! He! he
  pledged this ring with you! What has brought him into this
use of it. Some one is knocking. Give it to me, quickly.
  (Puts the ring on.)
  It is he. look at it, the more I am astonished at the resemblance it bears to
  mine. There! just look, just look!
  (Taking the ring from its case, and handing it to her.) MIN.
  Do not you recognize it, Franziska?

  FRAN.
  The same! Where did you get that ring, Mr. Landlord? (Whispering to her.)
  You know, my dear; the ring! Tell Herr Werner about it. Then he will
  learn better what I am. And that it may not appear as if she only said MIN.
  Do I know him! He is here! Tellheim here! He had this room! He! he
  pledged this ring with you! What has brought him into this FRAN.
  We have no claim to this ring! My mistress' monogram must be on it, on
  the inner side of the setting. Look at it, my lady. MAJ. T.
  Ah! I did that in my confusion. I had forgotten about the ring. Where
  did I put it?
  (Searches for it.)
  Here it is. MIN.
  It is! it is! How did you get this ring? JUST.
  The Landlord says, that Fraulein von Barnhelm has taken the ring which
  I pledged to him; she recognised it as her own, and would not return
  it. MIN. (looking at it).
  Good heavens! What do I see? This ring!!!!!

  LAND.
  Is honestly worth fifteen hundred thalers. MIN. (whilst Franziska is fetching the ring).
  I scarcely know, myself; but I fancy I see, beforehand, how I may make FRAN.
  It is no rubbish; it is a very valuable ring; which, moreover, I
  suspect, he received from a loving hand. (Takes off the ring.)
  Here, take it for the second time--the pledge of my fidelity. I do not wish to have it again at all. I can guess pretty well how she
  knew the ring, and why it was so like her own. It is best in her MIN.
  Without a moment's reflection!... As certainly as I have given you
  back the ring with which you formerly pledged your troth to me, as MIN.
  I take that ring again! That ring?

  MAJ. T.
  Yes, dearest Minna, yes.

  MIN.
  What are you asking me? that ring? MAJ. T.
  Fiction! But the ring? the ring?

  MIN.
  Where is the ring that I gave back to you? ring properly belongs? During the war many a thing often changed
  masters, both with and without the knowledge of its owner. War was
  war. Other rings will have crossed the borders of Saxony. Give it me FRAN.
  Well? In as few words as possible.

  LAND.
  Her ladyship has my ring still. I call it mine!!!!! FRAN.
  What! After you have taken the ring back, Major!
(Whispering to her.)
  You know, my dear; the ring! Tell Herr Werner about it. Then he will
  learn better what I am. And that it may not appear as if she only said (Takes off the ring.)
  Here, take it for the second time--the pledge of my fidelity. a ring is suddenly conjured on to his finger; he hardly knows himself
  how it gets there; and very often he would willingly give the finger
  with it, if he could only get free from it again. look at it, the more I am astonished at the resemblance it bears to
  mine. There! just look, just look!
  (Taking the ring from its case, and handing it to her.) use of it. Some one is knocking. Give it to me, quickly.
  (Puts the ring on.)
  It is he. FRAN.
  We have no claim to this ring! My mistress' monogram must be on it, on
  the inner side of the setting. Look at it, my lady. FRAN.
  It is no rubbish; it is a very valuable ring; which, moreover, I
  suspect, he received from a loving hand. MIN.
  It is! it is! How did you get this ring? MIN. (looking at it).
  Good heavens! What do I see? This ring!!!!!

  LAND.
  Is honestly worth fifteen hundred thalers. MAJ. T.
  Ah! I did that in my confusion. I had forgotten about the ring. Where
  did I put it?
  (Searches for it.)
  Here it is. MIN. (whilst Franziska is fetching the ring).
  I scarcely know, myself; but I fancy I see, beforehand, how I may make Here, take this ring--the only thing of value which I have left--of
  which I never thought such a use. Pawn it! get eighty louis d'ors for ring properly belongs? During the war many a thing often changed
  masters, both with and without the knowledge of its owner. War was
  war. Other rings will have crossed the borders of Saxony. Give it me MAJ. T.
  Fiction! But the ring? the ring?

  MIN.
  Where is the ring that I gave back to you? ring? Oh! you may see
  (pointing to her ring)
  that I have another here which is in no way inferior to yours. I do not wish to have it again at all. I can guess pretty well how she
  knew the ring, and why it was so like her own. It is best in her MIN.
  I take that ring again! That ring?

  MAJ. T.
  Yes, dearest Minna, yes.

  MIN.
  What are you asking me? that ring? LAND.
  Of course your ladyship must. I must show you a ring, a valuable ring.
  I see you have a very beautiful one on your finger; and the more I instead of on his finger! My good landlord, we are not yet so poor as
  we look. To him himself, I will pawn you, you beautiful little ring! I WER.
  Undoubtedly. Especially in Saxony. If he had had ten fingers on each
  hand, he might have had all twenty full of rings.
SCENE I.
  Minna's Room.

   Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
    (They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.) MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) thing your Minna was--is. She allowed--allows herself, to imagine that
  she makes your whole happiness. Declare all your misery at once. She MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! FRAN.
  The same to you! I really believe, I like that man!
  (Going in, she meets Minna coming out.) MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have he was a beggar!
  (Minna pours out the coffee herself.)
  Who would give such a sum to a beggar? And to endeavour, into the MIN.
  Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance.
  Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me.
  (Werner makes a stiff bow, and goes.) (Minna turns away uneasily, and endeavours to hide her emotion.) MIN.
  See there! Do you begin to pity him again already! No, silly girl, a
  man is never discarded for a single fault. No; but I have thought of a return mistaken by the beggar. It serves you right, my lady, if he
  considers your gift as--I know not what.
  (Minna hands a cup of coffee to Franziska.) SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska FRAN.
  Do not detain me any longer. I must see what she is about. How easily
  something might happen to her. Go now, and come again, if you like.
  (Follows Minna.) my own again. Now, my dear unfortunate, you love me still, and have
  your Minna still, and are unhappy? Hear what a conceited, foolish FRAN.
  That is just what I wished to hear.

  MIN.
  Wait, Franziska; I am wrong. He often talks of economy. Between
  ourselves, I believe he is extravagant. be obliged to seek it in the most distant clime, only follow me with
  confidence, dearest Minna--we shall want for nothing. I have a friend
  who will assist me with pleasure. torturing!--If she is in earnest, she will not refuse to forgive me.
  Now I want your aid, honest Werner!--No, Minna, I am no deceiver!
  (Rushes off.) without humiliation. I am this cause; through me, Minna, have you lost
  friends and relations, fortune and country. Through me, in me, must service of the great is dangerous, and does not repay the trouble, the
  restraint, the humiliation which it costs. Minna is not amongst those
  vain people who love nothing in their husbands beyond their titles and COUNT.
  Here I am, dear Minna
  (embracing her).
  But what, girl
  (seeing Tellheim),
  only four-and-twenty hours here, and friends--company already!
you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand Tellheim; as if such men were to be caught with money." That is what
  they would say, for they are all envious of me. That I am rich, they ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
  I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, FRAN. (running to the window).
  It is! it is he!

  MIN.
  Is it? Now, Tellheim, quick! ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). sovereign, Tellheim; you want no other master. To find you discharged,
  is a piece of good fortune I dared scarcely dream of! But you are not MIN.
  All officers are not Tellheims. To tell you the truth, I only sent him
  the message in order to have an opportunity of inquiring from him MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  Guess who it is?

  COUNT.
  Not your Tellheim, surely!

  MIN.
  Who else!--Come, Tellheim
  (introducing him). more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN.
  Certainly, sir, this news will be most welcome to Major von Tellheim.
  I should like to be able to name the friend to him, who takes such an
  interest in his welfare. MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him? FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he
MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN. (calling after him).
  Let you go, Minna? Minna, let you go? Tellheim! Tellheim!




ACT III. No, this is too bad... Only listen!... You are mistaken!... A
  mere misunderstanding. Tellheim, will you not hear your Minna? Can you certainly as you have taken back that same ring, so certainly shall
  the unfortunate Minna never be the wife of the fortunate Tellheim! MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! MIN. (alarmed).
  Of what are you thinking, Tellheim? It is time to break off. Come!
  (taking him by the hand).
  Franziska, let the carriage be brought round. MIN. (drawing away her hand).
  Not so, sir. Why this sudden change? Is this flattering impetuous
  lover, the cold Tellheim!--Could his returning good fortune alone MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska MAJ. T. (to Just).
  What do you say?... That is not possible!... You?
  (Looking fiercely at Minna.)
  Speak it out; tell it to her face. Listen, Madam. COUNT.
  Here I am, dear Minna
  (embracing her).
  But what, girl
  (seeing Tellheim),
  only four-and-twenty hours here, and friends--company already! MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! MIN.
  And do you know why I consider it so good? It applies to my Tellheim.

  FRAN.
  What would not, in your opinion, apply to him?
You know I went uninvited to the first party where I thought I should
  meet you. I went entirely on your account. I went with a fixed
  determination to love you--I loved you already! with the fixed FRAN.
  They are something alike, I suppose; let me look at that one. I am
  very fond of such things.

  MAJ. T.
  Another time, Franziska. Come now. create this ardour in him? He will permit me during his passionate
  excitement to retain the power of reflection for us both. When he
  could himself reflect, I heard him say--"it is a worthless love which FRAN. (holding him back).
  Surely not, Major. You would not follow her into her own room!

  MAJ. T.
  Her misfortune? Did she not speak of misfortune? seemed as if she saw me; but heaven defend us! I believe the lady took
  me for you. "Franziska," she cried, with her eyes fixed upon me, "am I Minna: and in nothing more happy than in the possession of you.
  (Embracing.)
  And now to meet him! MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! again; from the staircase into the room, backwards and forwards. There
  I stood; she passed me three times without seeing me. At length it look at it, the more I am astonished at the resemblance it bears to
  mine. There! just look, just look!
  (Taking the ring from its case, and handing it to her.) MIN.
  No, neither of us must make the other either more or less happy. True
  love demands it. I believe you, Major; and you have too much honour to
  mistake love. Yet I am not alone!
  (Looking upwards.)
  One single grateful thought towards heaven, is the most perfect
  prayer! I have found him! I have found him! MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have FRAN.
  The same to you! I really believe, I like that man!
  (Going in, she meets Minna coming out.) talking again, of things which I would willingly forget. There, give
  it to her!
  (He turns the letter in giving it to her, and sees that it has been
  opened.) LAND.
  What, girl! how can you suspect me of that? There is nothing so bad in
  a landlord as curiosity. I had not been here long, when suddenly her pleasure. Well
  (looking at him and smiling)
  dear Tellheim, have we not been like children? arose from the desire to retain my affection. That desire is my pride.
  You found me in distress; and you did not wish to add distress to
  distress. You could not divine how far your distress would raise me MIN.
  Now I have found him again, Franziska! Do you hear? Now I have found
  him again! I scarcely know where I am for joy! Rejoice with me, MIN.
  I have found him again!--Am I alone?--I will not be alone to no
  purpose.--
  (Clasping her hands.) FRAN.
  Now do look at me!

  WER.
  I am afraid I have looked at you too much already, little woman!
  There, now I can see you. What then?
FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous more nearly so. This Tellheim I am now, as little as I am my own
  father. They both have been. Now I am Tellheim the discharged, the have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) SCENE III.
  Franziska, Major von Tellheim

  FRAN.
  Is it you? I thought I heard your voice. What do you want, Major? SCENE VI.
  An Orderly, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  FRAN. (seeing the Orderly).
  Hist, Major!
SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  Sir, your mistake is quite excusable, and your astonishment very
  natural. Major von Tellheim has had the kindness to give up his
  apartments to me, as a stranger, who was not able to get them
  elsewhere. SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim FRAN.
  Without doubt, my lady, this gentleman expects to find Major von
  Tellheim here still. SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE III.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Just

  MAJ. T. (entering).
  Just! MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Minna, and Franziska MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have
SCENE X.
  Franziska (with a letter in her hand), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  FRAN.
  Major!!!!! ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! SCENE VII.
  Major Von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  MAJ. T.
  Why so thoughtful, Werner? MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, WER. (goes up to Minna, without noticing Franziska).
  Major von Tellheim begs to present, through me, Sergeant Werner, his SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  MAJ. T.
  That was she! But it seems you know her, Werner. WER.
  I suppose it must. Give me your hand on it, Major.

  MAJ. T.
  There, Paul! And now enough of that, I came here to speak with a
  certain young woman. ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). WER.
  As soon as I have got rid of this.

  MAJ. T.
  Werner, suppose I tell you that Frau Marloff was here herself early
  this morning!!!!! FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MAJ. T.
  Werner!

  WER.
  Well! Why do you stare at me so? Take it, Major!

  MAJ. T.
  Werner! SCENE VIII.
  Franziska (coming out of Minna's room), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. SCENE XI.

  Werner (with a purse full of gold), Just, Major von Tellheim, Minna,
  Franziska Major, and punctually at three.... Well, you wanted to speak to me
  too alone. What have you to say to me? Oh! we are not alone.
  (Looking at Werner.) MAJ. T.
  Very well, my dear Werner! You see that I have had recourse to you
  alone--I must also confide all to you. The young lady you have seen is
  in distress!!!!! SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T. (pointing to the purse which Werner had thrown down).
  Here, Just, pick up the purse and carry it home. Go!
  (Just takes it up and goes.)
have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!! SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  MAJ. T.
  That was she! But it seems you know her, Werner. SCENE VII.
  Major Von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  MAJ. T.
  Why so thoughtful, Werner? ACT V.



  SCENE I.
  Major von Tellheim (from one side), Werner (from the other) FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? WER. (goes up to Minna, without noticing Franziska).
  Major von Tellheim begs to present, through me, Sergeant Werner, his SCENE X.
  Franziska (with a letter in her hand), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  FRAN.
  Major!!!!! WER.
  I suppose it must. Give me your hand on it, Major.

  MAJ. T.
  There, Paul! And now enough of that, I came here to speak with a
  certain young woman. SCENE VIII.
  Franziska (coming out of Minna's room), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner Major, and punctually at three.... Well, you wanted to speak to me
  too alone. What have you to say to me? Oh! we are not alone.
  (Looking at Werner.) MAJ. T.
  Werner!

  WER.
  Well! Why do you stare at me so? Take it, Major!

  MAJ. T.
  Werner! WER.
  As soon as I have got rid of this.

  MAJ. T.
  Werner, suppose I tell you that Frau Marloff was here herself early
  this morning!!!!! MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous WER.
  What is the matter with you?--I am Werner.

  MAJ. T.
  All goodness is dissimulation; all kindness deceit. SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  To whom do you say that, Werner? We are alone, and therefore I may SCENE XIV.
  Major von Tellheim, Werner, Just, Franziska MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter MAJ. T.
  Very well, my dear Werner! You see that I have had recourse to you
  alone--I must also confide all to you. The young lady you have seen is
  in distress!!!!! WER.
  Really? But where there is war, Major!

  MAJ. T.
  To be sure. Go, Werner, we will speak of this again.
MIN.
  Do I know him! He is here! Tellheim here! He had this room! He! he
  pledged this ring with you! What has brought him into this ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! FRAN. (entering).
  Are you there still, Mr. Sergeant?
  (Seeing Tellheim.)
  And you there too, Major? I will be at your service instantly.
  (Goes back quickly into the room.) MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). SCENE IX.
  Servant, Major von Tellheim, Just

  SER.
  I say, comrade!

  JUST.
  What is the matter? MAJ. T.
  Ah! I did that in my confusion. I had forgotten about the ring. Where
  did I put it?
  (Searches for it.)
  Here it is. (Whispering to her.)
  You know, my dear; the ring! Tell Herr Werner about it. Then he will
  learn better what I am. And that it may not appear as if she only said MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter MAJ. T.
  No more, dearest Minna, no more!
  (Seizes her hand again, to put on the ring.) MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  I take that ring again! That ring?

  MAJ. T.
  Yes, dearest Minna, yes.

  MIN.
  What are you asking me? that ring? SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim you. I wished it might be Major von Tellheim.--Your hand, sir; you
  have my highest esteem; I ask for your friendship. My niece, my
  daughter loves you.
MIN.
  Do I know him! He is here! Tellheim here! He had this room! He! he
  pledged this ring with you! What has brought him into this ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter (Whispering to her.)
  You know, my dear; the ring! Tell Herr Werner about it. Then he will
  learn better what I am. And that it may not appear as if she only said FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? MIN. (stopping him).
  What are you going to do, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Obtain your hand.

  MIN.
  Stop! SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  Ah! I did that in my confusion. I had forgotten about the ring. Where
  did I put it?
  (Searches for it.)
  Here it is. SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim MIN.
  I take that ring again! That ring?

  MAJ. T.
  Yes, dearest Minna, yes.

  MIN.
  What are you asking me? that ring? SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, MIN.
  Tellheim! Tellheim!
  (Tellheim, biting his fingers with rage, turns away his face, without
  listening.) when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). certainly as you have taken back that same ring, so certainly shall
  the unfortunate Minna never be the wife of the fortunate Tellheim! FRAN.
  A strange face! I do not know him.

  MIN.
  Friend, do you live with Major von Tellheim?

  JUST.
  Yes. have heard of Major von Tellheim, if he has not heard of Paul Werner,
  his late sergeant. Our affair at Katzenhauser!!!!!
MAJOR VON TELLHEIM, a discharged officer.
  MINNA VON BARNHELM.
  COUNT VON BRUCHSAL, her uncle. MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, MAJ. T.
  Is that true? I thank you, Minna, that you have not yet pronounced the
  sentence. You will only marry Tellheim when unfortunate? You may have SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! Minna, what is this? What does this contain? SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Minna, and Franziska MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner). MIN.
  You can. Well, notwithstanding the pains which you have taken to
  forget me, do you love me still, Tellheim?

  MAJ. T.
  Madam, that question!!!!! MIN.
  Equality is the only sure bond of love. The happy Minna only wished to
  live for the happy Tellheim. Even Minna in misfortune would have SCENE X.
  Just, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  JUST. (impetuously).
  Major! Major! SCENE VI.

  Major von Tellheim (in the same coat, but otherwise as Franziska
  advised), Minna, Franziska SCENE V.
  Minna, Franziska, Major von Tellheim SCENE VIII.
  Landlord, Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska

  LAND. (to Franziska.)
  Hist! my pretty maid! A word! MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! MIN.
  Quick, Tellheim! one embrace and forget all.

  MAJ. T.
  Ah! did I but know that you could regret!!!!! SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim talk about me, and say. "That is she, that is the Fraulein von
  Barnhelm, who fancied that because she was rich could marry the noble MIN.
  You can. You must know what passes in your heart. Do you love me
  still, Tellheim? Yes, or No?

  MAJ. T.
  If my heart!!!!! MIN. (regaining her composure).
  It is cruel of you, Tellheim, to paint such happiness to me, when I am
  forced to renounce it. My loss!!!!! FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him?
"Fraulein von Barnhelm, coming from her estate in Thuringia, together
  with her lady in waiting and two men servants." MIN.
  Fraulein von Barnhelm.

  LAND. (writes).
  "Von Barnhelm." Coming from.... where, your ladyship? Am I to pardon you because I am still your Minna? Heaven pardon you,
  that I am still Fraulein von Barnhelm! The importance of Lessing's masterpiece in comedy, "Minna von
Barnhelm," is difficult to exaggerate. It was the beginning of MAJ. T. (letting fall her hand).
  What is this? I see Fraulein von Barnhelm, but I do not hear her.--You
  are pretending.--Pardon me, that I use your own words. MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) SCENE I.
  Minna's Room.

   Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
    (They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.) MAJ. T. (starts suddenly, and draws back).
  I beg your pardon, Fraulein von Barnhelm; but to meet you here!!!!! MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! talk about me, and say. "That is she, that is the Fraulein von
  Barnhelm, who fancied that because she was rich could marry the noble End of Project Gutenberg's Minna von Barnhelm, by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska MIN. (sees the Landlord, and makes a sign to Franziska).
  Sir!!!!!

  MAJ. T.
  If we are not both mistaken!!!!! FRAN.
  Come in!



  SCENE II.
  Landlord, Minna, Franziska MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska MAJ. T.
  Where are you going, dearest Minna?

  MIN.
  Sir, you insult me now by that term of endearment. MIN.
  Thank you for your trouble. I am glad to have made your acquaintance.
  Franziska has spoken in high praise of you to me.
  (Werner makes a stiff bow, and goes.) worthy, in the eyes of the world, of being yours. Minna von Barnhelm
  deserves an irreproachable husband. It is a worthless love which does SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim, Landlord, Minna, and Franziska MIN. (speaking as she comes out, as if not aware of the Major's
  presence).
  The carriage is at the door, Franziska, is it not? My fan!
ORD.
  I am looking for Major von Tellheim. Ah! you are the Major, I see. I
  have to give this letter from his Majesty the King
  (taking one out of his bag). MIN.
  If it affords you pleasure, Major.
  (Takes the letter and reads.)

   "My dear Major von Tellheim, SCENE VII.
  Major von Tellheim you, Tellheim. And if our government has the least sentiment of
  honour, I know what it must do. But I am foolish; what would that
  matter? Imagine, Tellheim, that you have lost the two thousand ORD. (whilst Tellheim takes the letter).
  I beg your pardon, Major; you should properly have had it yesterday, SCENE IV.
  Major von Tellheim MAJ. T.
  Presume! The letter is to me; to your Tellheim, Minna. It contains--
  what your uncle cannot take from you. You must read it! Do read it. SCENE VIII.
  Major von Tellheim SCENE II.
  Major von Tellheim FRAN.
  Major von Tellheim? Yes, indeed, I do know that good man.

  WER.
  Is he not a good man? Do you like him? SCENE X.
  Franziska (with a letter in her hand), Major von Tellheim, Paul Werner

  FRAN.
  Major!!!!! SCENE X.
  Major von Tellheim, Just MIN.
  Certainly, sir, this news will be most welcome to Major von Tellheim.
  I should like to be able to name the friend to him, who takes such an
  interest in his welfare. MAJ. T.
  Listen then, Madam. You call me Tellheim; the name is correct. But
  suppose I am not that Tellheim whom you knew at home; the prosperous MIN.
  That sounds very tragic... Yet, Major Tellheim, until I find the
  former one again--I am quite foolish about the Tellheims--the latter you. I wished it might be Major von Tellheim.--Your hand, sir; you
  have my highest esteem; I ask for your friendship. My niece, my
  daughter loves you. when you will be obliged to go and beg!" And then I thought again--
  "No, you will not be obliged to beg: you will go to Major Tellheim; he MIN.
  All officers are not Tellheims. To tell you the truth, I only sent him
  the message in order to have an opportunity of inquiring from him MAJ. T. (after reading the letter, with much emotion.)
  Ah! nor has he herein belied himself! Oh! Minna, what justice! what MIN.
  Come, Tellheim!

  MAJ. T.
  I will follow you in an instant, Minna. One word first with this man
  (turning to Werner).
MAJ. T. (letting fall her hand).
  What is this? I see Fraulein von Barnhelm, but I do not hear her.--You
  are pretending.--Pardon me, that I use your own words. talk about me, and say. "That is she, that is the Fraulein von
  Barnhelm, who fancied that because she was rich could marry the noble he loves to take part in his misfortune... Oh! how difficult is
  this victory!... Since reason and necessity have commanded me to
  forget Minna von Barnhelm, what pains have I taken! I was just Am I to pardon you because I am still your Minna? Heaven pardon you,
  that I am still Fraulein von Barnhelm! The importance of Lessing's masterpiece in comedy, "Minna von
Barnhelm," is difficult to exaggerate. It was the beginning of worthy, in the eyes of the world, of being yours. Minna von Barnhelm
  deserves an irreproachable husband. It is a worthless love which does SCENE I.
  Minna's Room.

   Minna (dressed handsomely and richly, but in good taste), Franziska
    (They have just risen from a table, which a servant is clearing.) MIN.
  Fraulein von Barnhelm.

  LAND. (writes).
  "Von Barnhelm." Coming from.... where, your ladyship? MAJ. T. (starts suddenly, and draws back).
  I beg your pardon, Fraulein von Barnhelm; but to meet you here!!!!! End of Project Gutenberg's Minna von Barnhelm, by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing JUST.
  The Landlord says, that Fraulein von Barnhelm has taken the ring which
  I pledged to him; she recognised it as her own, and would not return
  it. MIN.
  Pray go quickly. I will set all that right again.
  (Exit the Landlord.)
  Franziska, run after him, and tell him not to mention my name!
  (Exit Franziska.) "Fraulein von Barnhelm, coming from her estate in Thuringia, together
  with her lady in waiting and two men servants." MAJ. T. (walks in, and the moment he sees Minna rushes towards her).
  Ah! my Minna!

  MIN. (springing towards him).
  Ah! my Tellheim! MIN.
  I take it upon myself. Go!

  (Exit Landlord.)



  SCENE IX.
  Major von Tellheim, Minna, Franziska torturing!--If she is in earnest, she will not refuse to forgive me.
  Now I want your aid, honest Werner!--No, Minna, I am no deceiver!
  (Rushes off.) SCENE I.
  Minna's Room. Minna, Franziska FRAN.
  That is just what I wished to hear.

  MIN.
  Wait, Franziska; I am wrong. He often talks of economy. Between
  ourselves, I believe he is extravagant. thing your Minna was--is. She allowed--allows herself, to imagine that
  she makes your whole happiness. Declare all your misery at once. She MINNA VON BARNHELM

or, THE SOLDIER'S FORTUNE


By Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
What does the delayed letter from the King announce? Why does Minna pretend to be penniless and in dire straits? Who is Minna von Barnhelm's missing lover? What is Tellheim's last possession of worth? What is the name of Tellheim's servant? Who left the sealed envelope for Tellheim? What does the sealed envelope the landlord finds among Tellheim's possessions contain? What army was Major von Tellheim dishonourably discharged from? What war precedes the events which take place? Why did Major von Tellheim leave the Prussian Army? How much money does the marked sealed envelope the landlord finds claim to have? Who left the money with the Major? Why does Tellheim not want to use the money Werner leaves for him? What does Tellheim pawn to pay the landlord off? What is the name of Tellheim's lover? Why does Tellheim refuse to engage Minna von Barnhelm at first? What is the name of Minna's maid? Why does Tellheim change his mind about not marrying Minna? Why does Minna finally relent, and tell Tellheim the truth about her wealth? Where did Major von Tellheim find himself waiting for the outcome of his trial? What did the landlord find among the Major's possessions in his room? Who left the money for Major Tellheim? What does Tellheim pawn to pay his debts? Who recognized the ring? What had the ring been originally intended for? Who helped Minna pretend to be poor? What arrived that informed Tellheim of his reinstated fortune? Why did Minna pretend she couldn't marry Tellheim after all? Who else found that they had an attraction to each other? Which army was Major von Tellheim discharged from? Major Tellheim awaits his trial in what hotel? Paul Werner gives Major Tellheim an envelope containing what? Major Paul Werner is what to Major Tellheim? What does Major Tellheim as his servant to do with his ring? What sort of ring does Major Tellheim have? Who is Minna von Barnhelm to Major Tellheim? What is the name of Minna von Barnhelm's maid? Who sends the letter that restores Major Tellheim honor? Why does Minna von Barnhelm pretend to be broke?
The restoration of Tellheim's fortune and vindication of his honor That the Major's fortunes and honor are to be reinstated.
So Tellheim will marry her So she is equal with Tellheim and he will marry her
Major von Tellheim Major Tellheim
An expensive betrothal ring a ring
Just Paul Werner
Paul Werner Paul Werner
Five hundred thalers five hundred thalers
The Prussian Army Prussian Army
The Seven Years' War Prussian Army
He was dishonorably discharged he was dishonnorably discharged with alegations of bribery 
Five hundred thalers five hundred thalers
Paul Werner Paul Werner
Because he is not sure if he can repay it He is too honorable
His ring a ring
Minna von Barnhelm Minna von Barnhelm
Because he is poor He is poor
Franziska Franziska
he is tricked into believing she is poor like him She pretends to be poor and in terrible circumstances.
Her family arrives When her uncle threatens to tell him.
At a Berlin hotel a berlin hotel
A sealed envelope containing money A sealed envelope containing 500 thalers.
Paul Werner Paul Werner
A ring A ring.
Minna von Barnhelm Minna von Barnhelm
Betrothal Telheims betrothal to Minna
Her maid, Franziska Her maid
A letter frorm the king A delayed letter from the King.
To punish him for making her suffer To make him suffer like she did
Paul Werner and Franziska Paul Werner and Franziska
The Prussian Army The Prussian Army.
Berlin hotel a hotel in Berlin
Five hundred thalers Sealed envelope containing five hundred dollars
Former sergeant his former sargent
Pawn it Pawn the ring to the landlord.
Betrothal ring a betrothal ring
Fiance His Fiance
Franziska Franziska
The King From the King
To get Major Tellheim to marry her. So that Tellheim will marry her.