A servant named Barbara waits impatiently for her employer, Mariana, to return from the theater, where she has performed in the role of a young officer. Barbara prepares a gift package sent by Norberg, a wealthy merchant who is devoted to Mariana. Having opened the package herself, Barbara finds fine muslin and ribbons for Mariana, along with useful items and money for herself, and resolves to remind Mariana of her obligations to Norberg. When Mariana arrives, however, she is agitated and ignores both Barbara and the gifts. Barbara attempts to draw her attention to Norberg’s generosity, but Mariana rejects the subject, declaring that she will accept Norberg when he returns but will remain free until then. She insists that she will give herself entirely to the man she truly loves. Barbara argues against this course, but Mariana resists her sharply. She reveals that she expects a visit from Wilhelm Meister, “the young, soft-hearted, callow merchant’s son” whom she loves passionately (28). Barbara warns that Norberg will return in a fortnight, but Mariana dismisses the concern. Wilhelm arrives, and Mariana greets him excitedly. Barbara withdraws, leaving the lovers alone.