Third grenadier, front! [The third grenadier comes forward with the half-knitted stocking.] And, finally, His Majesty the King pleases to command Your Highness to knit, every two days, a pair of woolen stockings for the worthy Foundling Asylum of Berlin. May it please Your Royal Highness—this ends my orders.
SONNSFELD (in a tone of despair).
Princess, are these the King's plans for your future?
WILHELMINE (trembling in excitement).
Calm yourself, dear friend. Yes, this is the beginning of a new life for me. The battle is on! Go to my father and tell him—
SONNSFELD.
Go to the King and tell him—[To the PRINCESS.] What are they to tell him?
WILHELMINE (with tragic decision).
Tell him that I—