Enter Appiani, in deep meditation. His eyes are cast down, and he approaches without observing Claudia and Emilia, till the latter runs towards him.
APPIANI.
Ha! My dearest! I did not expect to find you in the ante-room.
EMILIA.
I wish you to be cheerful, even where you do not expect to see me. Why so grave and solemn? Should not this day inspire joyful emotions?
APPIANI.
It is of greater value to me than my whole life; but it teems with so much bliss for me--perhaps it is this very bliss which makes me so grave--so solemn, as you express it (espies Claudia). Ha! You too here, dear madam. This day I hope to address you by a more familiar name.
CLAUDIA.
Which will be my greatest pride.--How happy you are, Emilia! Why would not your father share our delight?