Struebel.
Well, then--I had hardly heard that she was here before I was dead in
love with her. It was just as quick as a shot, I tell you. Just as if I
had waited all my life long to fall in love with her. Besides, I also
heard about her beauty--and her sorrow. You see, she had an early love
affair.
The Princess (_disconcerted_).
What? Are they saying that?
Struebel.
Yes. It was a young officer who went to Africa because of her--and died
there.
The Princess.
And they know that, too?
Struebel.
What don't they know?--But that's a mere detail--it doesn't concern
me. Even the fact that in six months she will become the bride of a
grand-duke--even that can make no difference to me. For the present she
is _my_ princess.--But you're not listening to me!
The Princess.
Oh, yes I am!
Struebel.
Do you know what that means--_my_ princess? I'll not give up _my_
princess--not for anything in all the world!
The Princess.
But--if you don't even know her----?
Struebel.