LINENOTES:
[[48]]
my 1800, 1828, 1829.
Scene IX
Countess, Duchess, Max, and Thekla.
Countess (to the Duchess). Let them but see him—there is hope still, sister.
Duchess. Hope! I have none!
Max (who during the last scene has been standing at a distance,
advances). This can I not endure.
With most determined soul did I come hither,
My purposed action seemed unblameable
To my own conscience—and I must stand here 5
Like one abhorred, a hard inhuman being;
Yea, loaded with the curse of all I love!
Must see all whom I love in this sore anguish,
Whom I with one word can make happy—O!
My heart revolts within me, and two voices 10
Make themselves audible within my bosom.
My soul's benighted; I no longer can
Distinguish the right track. O, well and truly
Didst thou say, father, I relied too much
On my own heart. My mind moves to and fro— 15
I know not what to do.