ADELAIDE.

At least he sometimes said so.

COLONEL.

Since then this Bolz has become queer.  His mode of life is said to be irregular, and I fear his morals are pretty loose.  He is Oldendorf’s evil genius.

ADELAIDE.

That would be a pity!—­No, I do not believe it!

COLONEL.  What do you not believe, Adelaide?

ADELAIDE (smiling).

I do not believe in evil geniuses.  What has gone wrong between you and Oldendorf can be set right again.  Enemies today, friends tomorrow—­that is the way in politics; but Ida’s feelings will not change so quickly.  Colonel, I have brought with me a beautiful design for a dress.  That new dress I mean to wear this winter as bridesmaid.

COLONEL.

No chance of it!  You can’t catch me that way, girl.  I’ll carry the war into the enemy’s country.  Why do you drive other people to the altar and let your own whole neighborhood joke you about being the Sleeping Beauty and the virgin farmer?

ADELAIDE (laughing).

Well, so they do.

COLONEL.

The richest heiress in the whole district!  Courted by a host of adorers, yet so firmly intrenched against all sentiment; no one can comprehend it.

ADELAIDE.

My dear Colonel, if our young gentlemen were as lovable as certain older ones—­but, alas! they are not.

COLONEL.

You shan’t escape me.  We shall hold you fast in town, until we find one among our young men whom you will deem worthy to be enrolled under your command.  For whoever be your chosen husband, he will have the same experience I have had—­namely, that, first or last, he will have to do your bidding.

ADELAIDE (quickly).

Will you do my bidding with regard to Ida and the professor?  Now I have you!

COLONEL.

Will you do me the favor of choosing your husband this winter while you are with us?  Yes?  Now I have you!

ADELAIDE.

It’s a bargain!  Shake hands! [Holds out her hand to him.]

COLONEL (puts his hand in hers, laughing).

Well, you’re outwitted.

[Exit through centre door.]

ADELAIDE (alone).

I don’t think I am.  What, Mr. Conrad Bolz!  Is that your reputation among people!  You live an irregular life?  You have loose morals?  You are an evil genius?—­

Enter KORB.

KORB (through the centre door with a package).

Where shall I put the account-books and the papers, Miss Adelaide?

ADELAIDE.

In my apartment.  Tell me, dear Korb, did you find your room here in order?

KORB.

In the finest order.  The servant has given me two wax candles; it is pure extravagance.

ADELAIDE.

You need not touch a pen for me this whole day.  I want you to see the town and look up your acquaintances.  You have acquaintances here, I suppose?