I would take the place of that misjudged and slandered scholar. And down there, alone with you, not worried by threatening footfalls in the corridors, undisturbed by [_noise of drums outside_] those cruel guardians of your freedom, I would tell the most charming Princess of Europe that-- WILHELMINE. You have nothing to tell me--nothing at all. PRINCE (_throws himself at her feet_). I would tell her that there is one Prince who, although he will one day reign over no more than a tiny plot of German earth, still can gather from the spell of her beauty, the kindness of her heart, the courage to say to her--I love you--I worship you. WILHELMINE. Prince, what are you doing--please arise--some one is coming! PRINCE. Not until you promise me you will meet me there. WILHELMINE. Oh--if we should be surprised like this! Please get up! PRINCE. You will promise? You will meet me? WILHELMINE. Where? [_He points to the window._] There? But I am not alone even there. PRINCE. Those simple people are overjoyed when their Princess consents to linger an hour with them in their poverty. I have much to say to you, Princess, very much. I will tell you of the plans concerning England or Austria of which you are the central figure. And you must tell me again--in the very best style of Versailles, which I know thoroughly--that you hate me--that you detest me-- WILHELMINE. Prince, you torture me--I hear voices. Some one is approaching--Please get up. PRINCE. Will you promise? WILHELMINE. Cruel one! You won't get up-- PRINCE. Not until you promise-- WILHELMINE. If you promise to talk only about the plans that concern me--and about French grammar-- PRINCE (_springing up_). You promise? You will come? By every star in the firmament I swear I will begin with the verb _J'aime_--I love--and you shall see how, in comparison with the language of a devoted heart, in comparison with the art which unadorned nature can practise, even Voltaire is only--a wigmaker. [_He goes out._] SCENE IX _The noise of drums in the distance is no longer heard._ WILHELMINE _left alone, starts as if to follow the_ PRINCE. _Then she turns back hesitating, and walks with uncertain steps to the table. She rings the bell._ SONNSFELD _comes in, looks at the Princess as if surprised, speaks after a pause._ SONNSFELD. Your Highness commands? WILHELMINE (_as if awakening from a dream_). I? Nothing. SONNSFELD. Your Highness rang? WILHELMINE. Yes, I did. My mantilla--my fan--the veil. SONNSFELD. Your Highness is going out? WILHELMINE. I am going out. SONNSFELD. Has Your Highness permission? WILHELMINE. Permission? Are you beginning to take that tone, too? Fetch the things I want. [SONNSFELD _looks at her, astounded, then goes out._] WILHELMINE (_alone_).