ELECTOR (reading).
Signed: "Natalie." And dated: "Fehrbellin,
By order of my liege, my uncle Frederick."
KOTTWITZ. By God, my prince and lord, I will not hope
The order's news to you?
ELECTOR. No—understand—Who
was it who conveyed the order thither?
KOTTWITZ. Count Reuss!
ELECTOR (after a momentary pause).
What's more, you're welcome, very welcome!
You have been chosen with your squadrons twelve
To pay Prince Homburg, sentenced by the law,
The final honors of the morrow.
KOTTWITZ (taken aback). What, My sovereign?
ELECTOR (handing back the order).
The regiment stands yet,
Benighted and befogged, outside the Castle?
KOTTWITZ. Pardon, the night—
ELECTOR. Why don't they go to quarters?
KOTTWITZ. My sovereign, they have gone. As you directed
They have found quarters in the city here.