HERALD. "And a reward of five hundred crowns to the ARTIST who shall produce the most beautifully designed and highly-finished enameled porcelain vase of Berlin china; and permit her to marry whomsoever she shall think proper."
SOPHIA (aside and joyfully.)
Her I aright? (The GIRLS of the Factory show great joy at this.)
HERALD.
"The ARTIST's name shall be inscribed upon the vase, which shall be called 'The Prussian
Vase.'"
SOPHIA (aside.)
Oh, happy, happy news!
HERALD.
"Signed at the Sans Souci—
"By the King."
OMNES. HA-z-z-a-a-h-a-a-a-a! (Amid the shouts and general joy of the GIRLS, the BURGOMASTER bustles out, using his wand frequently, and speaking all the while; the HERALD following, and the CITIZENS buzzing and huzzaing as before.) Silence you nondescript villains!—Silence, I say! You stun me with your uproar! (Loud shout.—Passionately.) Oh, shut your ugly mugs! (Strikes them.)
WEDGEWOOD.
Mugs! I like that. He's in the crockery-trade, like myself.
SOPHIA (with joy.)
This proclamation has animated me with new life and energy. I feel like one inspired!
COUNT.
What mean you?
SOPHIA.
To become a competitor for the prize.