The Dramatic Works of G. E. Lessing Part 54

MARINELLI.

I ask pardon, madam. My lord Count, I called at your house, and was informed that I should find you here. I have important business with you. Once more pardon, madam. It will occupy but a few minutes.

CLAUDIA.

I will not impede it. (_Curtseys and exit_.)

Scene X.

Marinelli, Appiani.

APPIANI.

Now, my lord?

MARINELLI.

I come from his Highness.

APPIANI.

What are his commands?

MARINELLI.

I am proud to be the bearer of this distinguished favour; and if Count Appiani will not wilfully misunderstand one of his most devoted friends----

APPIANI.

Proceed, I pray, without more ceremony.

MARINELLI.

I will. The Prince is obliged to send an amba.s.sador immediately to the Duke of Ma.s.sa respecting his marriage with the Princess his daughter.

He was long undetermined whom to appoint, till his choice at last has fallen upon you, my lord.

APPIANI.

Upon me?

MARINELLI.

Yes--and if friends.h.i.+p may be allowed to boast, I was instrumental----

APPIANI.

Truly I am at a loss for thanks. I had long renounced the hope of being noticed by the Prince.

MARINELLI.

I am sure he only waited for a proper opportunity, and if the present mission be not sufficiently worthy of Count Appiani, I own my friends.h.i.+p has been too precipitate.

APPIANI.

Friends.h.i.+p, friends.h.i.+p! every third word. With whom am I speaking? The Marquis Marinelli's friends.h.i.+p I never dreamt of gaining.

MARINELLI.

I acknowledge my fault, Count Appiani, my unpardonable fault in wis.h.i.+ng to be your friend without your permission. But what of that? The favour of his Highness, and the dignity he offers, remain the same. I do not doubt you will accept them with pleasure.

APPIANI (_after some consideration_).

Undoubtedly.

MARINELLI.

Come, then, with me.

APPIANI.

Whither?

MARINELLI.

To the Prince's palace at Dosalo. All is ready. You must depart to-day.

APPIANI.

What say you? To-day?

MARINELLI.

Yes. Rather now than an hour hence. The business presses.

APPIANI.

Indeed! Then I am sorry I must decline the honour which the Prince intended to confer upon me.

MARINELLI.

How?

APPIANI.

I cannot depart to-day,--nor to-morrow--nor the next day.

MARINELLI.