s release. I am on my way to the city:
I shall purchase my Robert's release. Then I shall have an honest
daughter-in-law. And you, if ever after that you pass our happy cottage,
oh! what must you feel when you say to yourself, "This is my work!"

_Mrs. H._ [_In a tone of entreaty._] Enough, Tobias; enough!

_Tob._ I beg pardon! I cannot utter what is breathing in my breast.
There is One, who knows it. May His blessing and your own heart reward
you.

[_Exit, PETER following. MRS. HALLER casts
her eyes upon the ground, and contends
against the confusion of an exalted
soul, when surprised in a good action.
The BARON stands opposite to her, and
from time to time casts a glance at her,
in which his heart is swimming._

_Mrs. H._ [_Endeavouring to bring about a conversation._] I suppose, my
lord, we may expect the Count and Countess every moment now?

_Bar._ Not just yet, madam. He travels at his leisure. I am selfish,
perhaps, in not being anxious for his speed: the delay has procured me a
delight which I never shall forget.

_Mrs. H._ [_Smiling._] You satirise mankind, my lord.

_Bar._ How so?

_Mrs. H._ In supposing such scenes to be uncommon.

_Bar._ I confess I was little prepared for such an acquaintance as
yourself: I am extremely surprised. When Solomon told me your name and
situation, how could I suppose that--Pardon my curiosity: You have been,
or are married?

_Mrs. H._ [_Suddenly sinking from her cheerful raillery into mournful
gloom._] I have been married, my lord.

_Bar._ [_Whose enquiries evince his curiosity, yet are restrained within
the bounds of the nicest respect._] A widow, then?

_Mrs. H._ I beseech you--There are strings in the human heart, which
touched, will sometimes utter dreadful discord--I beseech you--

_Bar._ I understand you. I see you know how to conceal every thing
except your perfections.

_Mrs. H._ My perfections, alas!--[_Rural music without._] But I hear the
happy tenantry announce the Count's arrival. Your pardon, my lord; I
must attend them. [_Exit._

_Bar._ Excellent creature!--What is she, and what can be her history? I
must seek my sister instantly. How strong and how sudden is the interest
I feel for h