Morituri: Three One-Act Plays Part 27

Hallerpfort.

To-morrow morning, half after four o'clock behind the large drill-ground.

Fritz.

Thank G.o.d!

Major.

Thank G.o.d! (_They embrace_.)

Fritz (_disengaging himself_).

Conditions?

Hallerpfort.

Fifteen paces--advance--five paces barrier--exchange of shots----

Fritz.

To a finish?

Hallerpfort.

To a finish.

Fritz.

Very well!

(Major _turns toward the door, and presses his hands to his face_.)

Hallerpfort (_approaching him_).

Major, as your son's best friend----

Major (_grasping his hands_).

I thank you, my dear Hallerpfort, I thank you.... You will ride away at once, will you not?

Hallerpfort.

Unfortunately we must, Major.

Major.

Then just listen.... I will pa.s.s the hours until the duel, with my son.... That you can understand, can't you?... My carriage is. .h.i.tched up but I cannot go away with you for fear of making my sick wife uneasy. Wait for me at the end of half an hour in Schrander's inn....

Don't fear. We shall be on time....

Hallerpfort.

It will be as you order, Major.

Major.

And now, courage, Fritz!

Fritz.

That is understood, father!

Major.

(_Holding open the door on the left, in a different tone_.) Now, boys, just come quickly in! Only think, darling----

_TENTH SCENE_.

THE SAME. FRAU VON DROSSE.

Frau von Drosse.

Ah--Herr von Hallerpfort! (_He kisses her hand_.) How does this happen?

Two lieutenants in the house at the same time--if that doesn't bring luck!

Fritz (_quickly_).

We have orders together, mamma.

Hallerpfort.

And alas, madam, we have to be off this very minute.

Frau von Drosse.

How is that? Then I don't have my full hour? And now everything is so beautifully arranged.... Fritz, my dear Hallerpfort--just a bite, won't you?... Richard, dear, come to my aid.

Major.

But, dear child, service is service.

Fritz (_with quick decision_).

So, good-bye, mamma!

Frau von Drosse (_embracing him_).