Robert. Leonore, what are you doing? Leonore. Haven't you a word of apology for him?--not a single word? Muhlingk. You are mad! Robert. Stop, Leonore! I will think of you with--gratitude--as long as I live. When I leave you I leave the only thing that I can call home--God bless you! and farewell! (_He goes to door_) Leonore. (_Embracing him_) Don't go! don't go!--or take me with you! Robert. Leonore! Muhlingk. What!!! Leonore. Don't leave me alone! My soul is frozen between these walls! You are my home, too! You have always been! See, I've thrown myself into your arms! Muhlingk. Oh! what a disgraceful scene! Leonore. Father dear, we needn't get angry with each other. I love this man. For that which you have taken from him I offer that which I have. (_Half to_ Robert) I only have myself--If he wants that---- Robert. Leonore! (_Enter_ Trast.) Trast. What has happened? Leonore. I thank you, my good friend, for showing me the right way. Robert, let us make a new home, new duties. Robert. (_Bitterly, with a look at_ Kurt _who is sitting as though dumb_) And a new honor! (_He takes her in his arms_) Frau Muhlingk. So that is our thanks, Father! Leonore. Father, Mother, I ask your forgiveness, but what I am doing now I must do! I am sure that it can't be wrong. But I beg of you, think kindly of me--sometimes. Muhlingk. Ah, and you think you'll leave my house without my curse! (_He lifts his arm as though to curse her_) You---- Trast. (_Stepping up to him_) No, Herr Councillor, what's the use of wearing yourself out with curses? (_Quietly_) and furthermore, in confidence, your daughter isn't making a bad match. The young fellow will have my station and, since I have no heirs, my fortune. Muhlingk. But, Count--why didn't you explain! Trast. (_Quickly stepping back and raising his hand as if to bless him_) Please submit your worthy blessing in writing! (_Follows the two to the door as_ THE CURTAIN FALLS.) FOOTNOTES: [Footnote 1: Certain German houses are divided Into two parts the so-called "Hinterhaus" and "Vorderhaus." The "Vorderhaus" (_translated roughly "on the avenue"_) is the larger part and usually belongs to the owner. The "Hinterhaus" (_rendered "on the alley"_) is a few rooms opening on an alleyway or court whose occupants sometimes act in the capacity of caretakers, but who often have nothing to do with the people in the Vorderhaus and hardly consider themselves on a plane with the richer family's servants.--Tr.] [Footnote 2: A newspaper.--Tr.] [Footnote 3: The German workman is allowed time in the middle of the morning for a light lunch which tides him over from his coffee and rolls to the more substantial dinner at noon.--Tr.] [Footnote 4: A well known quotation from Schiller's "Die Rauber."] [Footnote 5: Thus in the original.--Tr.] [Footnote 6: The poor people in Germany drink an infusion of oak-leaves in place of coffee.]