Part 18 (1/2)

Beata.

Dear Leonie, find fault with me when I sow discord, but praise me when I make peace.

Leonie.

Do you care so much for praise?

Beata.

Don't you?

Leonie.

Oh, no one ever praises me. I suppose I don't know how to play my cards. Norbert, please have the carriage called.

Norbert.

Very well, mother. (_Goes out_.)

Leonie.

Ah, Prince--good-evening! (_He kisses her hand_.) How is it we never see you at our missionary meetings? Her Royal Highness wished me to say that she counts on your help. Isn't that flattering? (_To the others_.) The Prince is one of us, you know. He serves the cause of religion faithfully----

Prince.

And in poverty of spirit. That's my special merit, you know, Baroness.

Brachtmann (_aside to the_ Prince).

You reprobate!

Leonie.

But pray don't let me disturb you, for I must really be off. My carriage is waiting, and my coachman is so cross. We're all the slaves of our carriages. (_To_ Kellinghausen.) It has been so delightful--dear Beata is such a wonderful hostess. Our great stateswoman knows so well how to keep her party in hand. Willingly or unwillingly, she makes them all come into line; don't you, Beata, dear?

Beata.

I'm afraid you are among the unwilling to-night, Leonie.

Leonie.

Oh, I'm not as adaptable as some of your friends.

Brachtmann (_aside to the_ Prince).

Do you hear those amenities?

Prince (_to_ Brachtmann).

The Baroness is dispensing Christian charity sprinkled with a.r.s.enic.