Part 44 (1/2)

Richard.

I've not had many yet. (_Shakes hands with him again and then turns to the others_.)

Beata.

Shall we have luncheon? Volkerlingk, you can join us when you've had your caviare. (Richard _makes a gesture refusing the hors-d'[oe]uvre_.)

Brachtmann (_aside to the_ Prince).

Well?

Prince.

Irreproachable, as usual.

Brachtmann.

Thank G.o.d! (_They all seat themselves_.)

Prince (_to_ Baron Ludwig).

I can't make your brother out. You know him better than we do. Look at his face--what's the matter with him?

Baron Ludwig.

We are such complicated machines, your Highness. It's impossible to explain any one with a word.

Beata.

Take a hundred, then. (_With a short excited laugh_.) Life is long enough!

Kellinghausen (_to himself_).

Yes. Life is long enough.

Richard.

Instead of discussing my appearance I wish you would criticise my speech.

Prince.

What a _gourmet_ he is, Countess! He wants the disapproval of his friends to season the praise of his enemies!

Richard.

Now, then, Brachtmann?

Brachtmann.

Why, my dear fellow, if you insist--I must tell you frankly that I had hoped you would lay more stress on the view of marriage as a divine inst.i.tution.