Scratch As chief engineer and master of artillery, I am going to see where I ought to place my batteries—to punch a hole in Albert and oblige him to surrender the place quickly or withstand our assault.
CURTAIN
ACT II.
Scene: Same as Act I, later that day.
Albert (alone) A secret confided—said an excellent man who's name and country, I am ignorant of—is the thing which ought to be most carefully watched— and in these times, the most difficult to protect. Now, while I don't wish to argue with this facile philosopher, guarding a young girl is much more difficult. I made the locksmith enter through the garden—he must be promptly employed in my plan. I intend to make Arabella and Jenny go out—from fear this would move their hearts and overwhelm them. I've got to call them, so that the workman can act at leisure. When I've satisfied my prudence in this matter—they will have to resolve to be patient. Hola! Someone! Come under these thick trees and take the air with me for several minutes.
(Enter Jenny and Arabella.)
Jenny Here's unseasonable fruit. What favorable demon causes you to greet her so softly and your humor to be so tractable? By your astonishing command, we can go out today for the first time in six months.
Albert We have to change places sometimes. Sometimes, in life, the most charming resort bores us.
Arabella
If I'm with you, regardless of the climate, the air will be no softer
or better for me. I don't know why, but now I sigh when I am near you;
I cannot breathe.
Albert My heart swoons with pleasure at such talk. You need a husband to calm these sighs.