Muhlingk. If I did that, I should disgrace myself and my family. On the other hand, this young man has the chance of getting out of the trouble. If he refuses, and it comes back to me, who shall be made unhappy, we or he? My answer is; he shall, I have no desire to be, myself--That's the way I've always done, and everyone knows me as a man of honor.
Leonore. (Rising) Father, is that your last word?
Muhlingk. My last! Now, come, give me a kiss and beg your mother's pardon.
Leonore. (Shrinks back with a shudder) Let me go! I can't deceive you!
Muhlingk. What do you mean?
Leonore. Father, I feel I am in the wrong, that I am asking the impossible from you. I shall have to know the world differently from--(Stops suddenly and listens. There are voices in the hall)
Muhlingk. And----?
Leonore. (Aside) It's he!--Oh, I can't stand it any longer!
(Enter Wilhelm.)
Wilhelm. The young Herr Heinecke from the Alley is there again.