COLONEL alone, thoughtfully.]
I fear I ought not to have accepted so quickly; but I had to do the minister of war that favor. What will the girls say to it? And Oldendorf?
[Enter OLDENDORF.]
There he is himself.
[Clears his throat.]
He will be astonished. I can't help it, he must withdraw. Good morning, Professor, you come just at the right moment.
OLDENDORF (hastily).
Colonel, there is a report in town that Mr. von Senden's party have put you up as their candidate. I ask for your own assurance that you would not accept such a nomination.
COLONEL.
And, supposing the proposition had been made to me, why should I not accept as well as you? Yes, rather than you; for the motives that would determine me are sounder than your reasons.