The Dramatic Works of G. E. Lessing / Miss Sara Sampson, Philotas, Emilia Galotti, Nathan the Wise

by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

MARINELLI (taking her hand, not in the most gentle way).

Allow me to perform my duty.

ORSINA.

Softly!--I excuse you, Marquis. Why do such as you ever consider mere politeness a duty, and neglect as unimportant what is really an essential duty? To announce this worthy man immediately is your duty.

MARINELLI.

Have you forgotten what the Prince himself commanded?

ORSINA.

Let him come, and repeat his commands. I shall expect him.

MARINELLI (draws Odoardo aside).

I am obliged to leave you, Colonel, with a lady whose intellect--you understand me, I mention this that you may know in what way to treat her remarks, which are sometimes singular. It were better not to enter into conversation with her.