De Val. (smiling) Florian, you are destined to be our hero in peace as well as war—my niece has planned a little fête in compliment to the conquerors of Nordlingen.
Ger. Fy, uncle, Florian was not to have known of it till the moment, you have betrayed my secret, now as a due punishment for the treason, I impose upon you to appear at our fête in person.
De Val. What a demand!—I, who never—
Ger. Nay, if it be only for a minute, positively you must come among us—nay, I will not be denied.
De Val. Well, you reign a fairy sovereign for the day, and if it be your will to play the despot, your subjects, though they murmur, must obey.
Ger. (embracing him) There’s my kindest uncle! thanks! Florian I warn you not to stir towards the terrace till I summon you, beware of disobedience, I have the power to punish.
Flor. And to reward also.
Ger. Ah! at least I have the inclination, it will be your own fault if ever my actions and my wishes dissociate, or Geraldine refuse a boon when Florian is the suitor. Exit.
Flor. (looking after her) Geraldine! too kind, too lovely Geraldine, ah! sir, is she not admirable?
De Val. She has been accounted so by many in your absence. I cannot estimate her beauty, but I know her virtue; and the last fond wish left clinging to this heart is Geraldine’s felicity. I shall endeavour to secure it, by uniting her in marriage with a worthy object.