Part 31 (2/2)

Kellinghausen.

Well--what other way is there?

Richard.

I know a way--but---- (Norbert's _voice is heard outside, speaking with_ Conrad.)

Kellinghausen.

(_With sudden decision, opening the door_.) Norbert!

Richard (_following him_).

For G.o.d's sake, Michael--do you want to disgrace my whole house?

Kellinghausen (_opening the door_).

You shall see.--Norbert! Come in, my boy--come!

Norbert _enters_.

Norbert.

Uncle Michael, what is the matter with Aunt Beata? The doctor is with her, and Ellen has been called----

Kellinghausen.

Nothing serious. Don't be alarmed. (_Takes his hand_.) Norbert, your father and I were just talking of last evening. You remember that stupid business interrupted our talk, and we never heard the end of your argument. Let us have it now. Sit down--sit down, Richard. (_They all seat themselves_.) There was one phrase of yours that struck me.

You said--you said--that if----

Richard.

You said that if a man of honour has injured another and is called on to atone for it, he is the best judge of his own punishment.

Norbert (_laughing_).

Did I? Very likely--but my head is so full of other things just now that I couldn't swear to it.

Kellinghausen.

That was not quite what I meant; but no matter. Suppose we take such a case. If the injured person says: ”One of us two must die”--what ought the other to answer?

Norbert.

Why, Uncle Michael, I should say that depended on the nature of the injury--doesn't it?

Richard.

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