IDA.

And you, father, have come out before everybody as his opponent?

ADELAIDE.

And what did Oldendorf say to that, Colonel?

COLONEL.

Don't excite me, girls! Oldendorf was stubborn, otherwise he behaved
well, and as far as that is concerned all is in order. The grounds
which determined me to make the sacrifice are very weighty. I will
explain them to you more fully another time. The matter is decided; I
have accepted; let that suffice for the present.

IDA.

But, dear father--

COLONEL.

Leave me in peace, Ida, I have other things to think of. This evening
I am to speak in public; that is, so to say, the custom at such
elections. Don't worry, my child, we'll get the better of the
professor and his clique.

[_Exit_ COLONEL _toward the garden_. IDA _and_ ADELAIDE _stand facing
each other and wring their hands._]