SONNSFELD.
Come now! I'm the cavalier, Princess, and you are the lady.
[ECKHOF plays one of the simple naïve dance tunes of the day. The two ladies dance.]
SONNSFELD.
Bravo, Eckhof! This is going nicely—ah, what joy to dance once more!
This way now la—la—la! [She hums the melody.]
SCENE II
During the dance the KING comes in softly through the door to the right. He starts when he sees the dancers and the grenadier playing the violin. They do not notice him. He comes-nearer and attempts to join the dance unobserved.
WILHELMINE.
Sonnsfeld, that's not right! Now it's the gentleman's turn. [Holds her hand out behind her back]—Like this.
[The KING takes her hand gently with one finger and dances a few steps.]