Page:Poet Lore, volume 34, 1923.djvu/412

 Friedrich—Who speaks of ending it?

Mauer.—Surely that's understood. You could do it now without attracting much attention. It would merely be necessary for you to leave for America somewhat sooner than you intended.

Friedrich.—Genia will go to America with me.

Mauer.—What?

Friedrich.—Yes.

Mauer (Shrugging his shoulders).—If you will allow me, I shall regard this communication as the last evidence of your confidence. Now

Natter (Comes in).—Good evening, Dr. Mauer, how are you? My dear Hofreiter, I wanted to ask you, since we can't stay any longer

Mauer.—Allow me now to say good night to your wife.

Friedrich.—She will be pleased.

goes to the tennis court.

Natter.—I wanted to ask you, Hofreiter, whether I might see you tomorrow at the office. I have a good deal to tell you. That company has applied again. They make an offer of

Friedrich.—Business tomorrow, Herr Natter.

Natter.—As you please.

Friedrich.—Today we will chat a bit.

Natter.—With pleasure.

Friedrich.—Tell me, Natter, what do you think of Demeter Stanzides.

Natter—Stanzides? A decent fellow. Somewhat sentimental for a lieutenant of Hussars. But, on the whole, a- good chap.

Friedrich.—Hasn't he any debts?

Natter.—Not that I know.

Friedrich—Doesn't he abuse his subordinates?

Natter.—I've heard nothing to that effect.

Friedrich.—Doesn't he cheat at cards?

Natter.—Do you believe that, Hofreiter?

Friedrich.—No. I merely wanted to make it easier for you to find something against him later, when the affair between him and your wife is over.

They stand looking hard at each other.

Natter.—I'm glad, Hofreiter, that you don’t take me for a fool.

Friedrich.—No, for a

Natter.—I warn you not to call me a scoundrel. It probably