Chapter 25

_A lady-in-waiting enters. Others as before._

LADY-IN-WAITING. Madam, the Prince of Homburg's at the door. But I am hardly sure that I saw right.

ELECTRESS. Dear God!

NATALIE. Himself?

ELECTRESS. Is he not prisoner?

LADY-IN-WAITING. He stands without, in plumed hat and cloak, And begs in urgent terror to be heard.

ELECTRESS (_distressed_). Impulsive boy! To go and break his word!

NATALIE. Who knows what may torment him?

ELECTRESS (_after a moment in thought_). Let him come!

[_She seats herself._]