should obtain my discharge, offered myself to a master to learn a
profession; but his question was, "Where is your certificate from the
church-book of the parish in which you were born?" It vexed me that I
had not it to produce, for my comrades laughed at my disappointment.
My captain behaved kinder, for he gave me leave to come home to fetch
it--and you see, mother, here I am.

[During this speech Agatha
is confused and agitated.

AGATHA. So, you are come for the purpose of fetching your certificate
from the church-book.

FREDERICK. Yes, mother.

AGATHA. Oh! oh!

FREDERICK. What is the matter? [She bursts into tears.] For heaven's
sake, mother, tell me what's the matter?

AGATHA. You have no certificate.

FREDERICK. No!

AGATHA. No.--The laws of Germany excluded you from being registered at
your birth--for--you are a natural son!

FREDERICK [starts--after a pause]. So!--And who is my father?

AGATHA. Oh Frederick, your wild looks are daggers to my heart.