Mrs. H. Oh! but one minute more! An answer to but one more question,—Feel for a mother's heart!—Are my children still alive?
Stra. Yes, they are alive.
Mrs. H. And well?
Stra. Yes, they are well.
Mrs. H. Heaven be praised! William must be much grown?
Stra. I believe so.
Mrs. H. What! have you not seen them!—And little Amelia, is she still your favourite? [The Stranger, who is in violent agitation throughout this scene, remains in silent contention between honour and affection.] Oh! let me behold them once again!—let me once more kiss the features of their father in his babes, and I will kneel to you, and part with them for ever.
[She kneels—he raises her.
Stra. Willingly, Adelaide! This very night. I expect the children every minute. They have been brought up near this spot. I have already sent my servant for them. He might, ere this time, have returned. I pledge my word to send them to the Castle as soon as they arrive. There, if you please, they may remain 'till daybreak to-morrow: then they must go with me.
[The Countess and Baron, who at a little distance have listened to the whole conversation with the warmest sympathy, exchange signals. Baron goes into the Hut, and soon returns with Francis and the Children. He gives the Girl to the Countess, who places herself behind the Stranger. He himself walks with the Boy behind Mrs. Haller.