Worthy I will instruct her in all, I give you my word. But, think only of playing your role well. When Arabella comes back, keep the old man busy to give me time to explain everything to her. A few words are all the instruction she'll need. Albert is late--ah, but I see him leaving the house.
Albert God conduct the ship and send it to safe harbor.-- Oh, gentlemen, her folly increases every moment. A military delusion now torments her. She's turned her ball dress into a uniform, she's taken up armor,--a dragoon's helmet and a large scimitar. She speaks only of blood and combat. My money must serve to raise an army. She wants to draft me.
(Enter Jenny and Arabella. Arabella is in a fantastic military outfit.)
Arabella Death--long live war! I cannot remain useless around here. My outfit is ready. Ah, Marquis, it's fortunate I find you in this place. I've come to say goodbye to you. I've found money to finance my campaign-- and this very night I leave for Germany!
Arabella By God, officers are wrong to obtain money from the dirty hands of usurers. Better to intrigue--better to inflate the roster. This fellow (pointing to Albert) loaned me his money. I hold him to be the greatest rogue, the worst Jew, the worst dog that one can find in such affairs. I wish someone would bring me his ears.-- Now, I'm ready to go serve the king. Nothing's left to do, except for you to go with me.
Worthy Wherever you go, I will go. (to Albert) It's prudent to humor her.
Arabella I quit forever the standard of love. Under its banner, I could go far, someday. I have a thousand endearing qualities--wit, manners. I know the secret of humbling the proudest woman. But for what? What do you want of me? I am not made for women. Glory is what I want. This inhuman Glory, with its brilliant flesh enslaves me. The poor sex can die of love and boredom before I'll do anything for them.-- No more delay--I go where Glory calls. Lead my horse, the time is propitious. Post, run!
Scratch I won't leave her. I'm ready to follow her into the midst of combat.
(Albert surprises Worthy speaking to Arabella.)
Worthy I examined her eyes. From what I see, some violent access takes hold of her, and will be followed by drowsiness. Order an armchair brought here quickly.