Page:Bedřich Smetana, The bartered bride, Die verkaufte braut.pdf/15

Rh

He has chosen me for a wife!

Let the poor fool go!

Heart and hand belong to him.

That was but proud play and prattle! What for do I have sense? 'Tis for that I'm so well known! And he'll always reach his goal, Who has found the right path to it.

Yes, he'll always reach the goal Who has found the right path to it.

With Hans am I united, for to-day We've sworn fidelity eternal to each other!

What? Without advice and consent? I, as father, say no!

And yet Have I given Micha my word, To give her to his son.

O, how very stupid of you, To have promised him that!

Yes, in black and white! Here it is all, signed clearly, By both parties and the witnesses.

But I was not present! (knocks the paper out of his hand.)

And, therefore, It's worthless! I said what I meant, And so will it remain!

That had I but Least expected.

It was a great mistake on your part To have come alone! Why did you not Bring Wenzel with you? He could have At least presented himself to his bride.

That's true! But he was not to be budged. He is timid and dejected, quite unused To associate with women.

Then nothing will come out of it.

Listen To what I will advise you: It would be best If you were now to talk it over With Father Micha In the inn there younder! There no one will disturb you, For all go to the dance. I meanwhile will talk with Hans, I'll get around him! (They go away in different directions.)

Through the rows To fly, Two by two To cling! Heart upon heart Beat! While jesting, We are carried off! Gladsomely, Loud and softly, Shall you give New life! If things were as we would have them, The whole world would dance with us! Violin and clarionet, Shriek, vying with each other This mad life is fun indeed Even for the old bassoon.