MR. ANHALT.
Are you of opinion that she will never fall in love?
BARON.
Oh! no. I am of opinion that no woman ever arrived at the age of twenty without that misfortune.—But this is another subject.—Go to Amelia—explain to her the duties of a wife and of a mother.—If she comprehends them, as she ought, then ask her if she thinks she could fulfil those duties, as the wife of Count Cassel.
MR. ANHALT.
I will.—But—I—Miss Wildenhaim—[confused. I—I shall—I—I shall obey your commands.
BARON.
Do so. [gives a deep sigh.] Ah! so far this weight is removed; but there lies still a heavier next my heart.—You understand me.—How is it, Mr. Anhalt? Have you not yet been able to make any discoveries on that unfortunate subject?
MR. ANHALT.
I have taken infinite pains; but in vain. No such person is to be found.
BARON.
Believe me, this burthen presses on my thoughts so much, that many nights I go without sleep. A man is sometimes tempted to commit such depravity when young.—Oh, Anhalt! had I, in my youth, had you for a tutor;—but I had no instructor but my passions; no governor but my own will. [Exit.
MR. ANHALT.
This commission of the Baron’s in respect to his daughter, I am—[looks about]—If I shou’d meet her now, I cannot—I must recover myself first, and then prepare.—A walk in the fields, and a fervent prayer—After these, I trust, I shall return, as a man whose views are solely placed on a future world; all hopes in this, with fortitude resigned. [Exit.
ACT III.
SCENE I.
An open Field.