Na, irren kann man sich doch in dem Falle nicht! (Steps up to Burris.) Was seh’ich? Is that you, Burris? Verdienstkreuz! (He steps back and salutes long and impressively.)
Burris (Bowing).—My lord baron.
Rudolph.—Den Stern und das Militarverdienstkreuz dazu? And I have to rot here! My father’s administrator goes away to the war, a reserve, and returns with a cross for bravery. Meanwhile I monkey around here taking care of his work horses. Das ist doch bitter!
Burris.—I assure you, lord baron . . .
Rudolph.—Was fur Faxen zwischen Kamaraden! (Shakes his hand.) From this day let there be nothing between us but, “Du und du.” (Bitterly.) A lieutenant of the reserves with a cross for distinguished service outweighs an active lieutenant of the dragoons, while he remains on the waiting list. It’s enough to make a man shoot himself. (He coughs.)
Erna (Interested).—What? Is that really a cross for bravery? And here I, a soldier’s daughter, never even noticed. Permit, Mr. Lieutenant. (Very close to him, she studies the cross on his his breast.) Congratulations, Lieutenant.
Lena (Who has been suffering in silence by herself)—I, too, wish you joy, Mr. Karl.
Burris.—They hung it on me at Pilsen. I am not saying that I am ashamed of it, and I frankly admit that as a reminder of Bosnia it pleases me better than this one. (He indicates his side.) But when I think of the terrible struggle they put up to prevent my ever getting this piece of gold! It can never begin to repay the bloodshed—mine as well as that of one half of our regiment that fell there.
Rudolph.—But where was this?
Burris.—In a certain man-made trap where so many of our own dear boys perished.
Erna.—Time enough for all that after supper, gentlemen. Please take your places. (At kitchen door.) Bara, one more place, please. Rudy will do us the honor tonight. The first time this year, brother. (She sits. Lena does not see where to go.)
Burris (Noticing, and with ostentatious matter of factness offers her his arm).—Your servant, my lady. (His intended kindness in not noticing her condition is spoiled. She does not see his offered arm. He takes her hand and places it on his arm.)
Rudolph.—Is it understood that you are to join the active forces?
