293.] "They are already here," cried Herzberg, zealously.

"We have, for example, Lessing, who has written two dramas, of which every nation might be proud--'Minna von Barnhelm, and Emilia Calotti.'" "I know nothing of them," said the king, with indifference.

"I have never heard of your Lessing." "Your majesty, this wonderful comedy, 'Minna von Barnhelm,' was written for your majesty's glorification." "The more the reason why I should not read it! A German comedy! That must be fine stuff for the German theatre, the most miserable of all.
In Germany, Melpomene has untutored admirers, some walking on stilts, others crawling in the mire, from the altars of the goddess.

The Germans will ever be repulsed, as they are rebels to her laws, and understand not the art to move and interest the heart." "But, sire, you have never deigned to become acquainted with 'Minna von Barnhelm' nor 'Emilia Calotti.'" "Well, well, Herzberg, do not be so furious; you are a lover of German literature, and some allowance must be made for those who are in love.
You will not persuade me to read your things which you call German comedies and tragedies.

I will take good care; my teeth are not strong enough to grind such hard bits.