On the one hand the father, on the other the lover--how will it end?
Do not worry. The one is an old soldier, the other a young statesman; two types that we women have wound around our little fingers from time immemorial! [_Both leave_.]
_Side room of a public hall. The rear wall a great arch with columns, through which one looks into the lighted hall and through it into another. On the left, toward the front, a door. On the right, tables and chairs; chandeliers. Later, from time to time distant music. In the hall ladies and gentlemen walking about or standing in groups_. SENDEN, BLUMENBERG, _behind them_ SCHMOCK _coming from the hall_.
SENDEN. All is going well. There is a splendid spirit in the company. These good townspeople are delighted with our arrangements. It was a fine idea of yours, Blumenberg, to have this fête.
BLUMENBEEG. Only hurry and get people warmed up! It's a good thing to begin with some music. Vienna waltzes are best on account of the women. Then comes a speech from you, then some solo singing, and, at supper, the introduction of the Colonel, and the toasts. It can't help being a success; the men must have hearts of stone if they don't give their votes in return for such a fête.
SENDEN. The toasts have been apportioned.
BLUMENBERG. But the music?--Why has the music stopped?
SENDEN. I am waiting for the Colonel to arrive.
BLUMENBERG. He must be received with a blare of trumpets. It will flatter him, you know.
SENDEN. That's what I ordered. Directly after, they start up a march and we bring him in procession.
BLUMENBERG. First rate! That will lend solemnity to his entrance. Only think up your speech. Be popular, for today we are among the rabble.
SENDEN (_doing the honors with BLUMENBERG_). Delighted to see you here! We knew that you would not fail us. Is this your wife?
GUEST. Yes, Mr. von Senden, this is my wife.
SENDEN. You here, too, Mr. Henning? Welcome, my dear sir!
HENNING. I was invited by my friend and really had the curiosity to come. My presence, I hope, will not be unpleasant to any one?
SENDEN. Quite the contrary. We are most pleased to greet you here.
[_Guests leave through centre door_; SENDEN _goes out in conversation with them._]
BLUMENBERG. He knows how to manage people. It's the good manners of these gentlemen that does it. He is useful--useful to me too. He manages the others, and I manage him. [_Turning, he sees_ SCHMOCK, _who is hovering near the door_.] What are you doing here? Why do you stand there listening? You are not a door-keeper! See that you keep out of my vicinity. Divide yourself up among the company.