IDA.  But if Oldendorf is defeated, how will he bear it!

ADELAIDE (shrugging her shoulders).

He loses a seat in unpleasant company and wins, instead, an amusing little wife.  I think he ought to be satisfied.  In any case he will have a chance to make his speeches.  Whether he makes them in one house or another, what is the difference?  I fancy you will listen to him more reverently than any other member.

IDA (shyly).

But Adelaide, what if it really would be better for the country to have Oldendorf elected?

ADELAIDE.

Yes, dearest, in that case there is no help for the country.  Our State and the rest of the European nations must learn to get along without the professor.  You have yourself to attend to first of all; you wish to marry him; you come first.

[Enter CARL.]

What news, Carl?

CARL.

Mr. von Senden presents his compliments and reports 47 to 42.  The head of the election committee, he says, has already congratulated him.

COLONEL.

Congratulated?  Lay out my uniform, ask for the key of the wine-cellar, and set the table; we are likely to have visitors this evening.

CARL.

Yes, Colonel.

[Exit.]

COLONEL (to himself in the foreground).

Now, my young professor!  My style does not please you?  It may be that you are right.  I grant you are a better journalist.  But here, where it is a serious matter, you will find yourself in the wrong, just for once. [Pause.] I may be obliged to say a few words this evening.  It used to be said of me in the regiment, indeed, that I could always speak to the point, but these manoeuvres in civilian dress disconcert me a little.  Let’s think it over!  It will be only proper for me to mention Oldendorf in my speech, of course with due respect and appreciation; yes indeed, I must do that.  He is an honest fellow, with an excellent heart, and a scholar with fine judgment.  And he can be very amiable if you disregard his political theories.  We have had pleasant evenings together.  And as we sat then around my fat tea-kettle and the good boy began to tell his stories, Ida’s eyes would be fixed on his face and would shine with pleasure—­yes, and my own old eyes, too, I think.  Those were fine evenings!  Why do we have them no longer?  Bah!  They’ll come back again!  He’ll bear defeat quietly in his own way—­a good, helpful way.  No sensitiveness in him!  He really is at heart a fine fellow, and Ida and I could be happy with him.  And so, gentlemen and electors—­but thunder and lightning!  I can’t say all that to the voters!  I’ll say to them—­

Enter SENDEN.

SENDEN (excitedly).

Shameful, shameful!  All is lost!

COLONEL.

Aha! (Instantly draws himself up in military posture.)

ADELAIDE } My presentiment!  Father!
} [Hurries to him].
} (together).
}
IDA } Dear me!