Yes, the sadness of certain things lies much deeper than we commonly suspect.
WEGRAT
So he's working again? Then, perhaps, we may expect something out of the ordinary.
SALA
In the case of anybody who has been an artist once you are never safe against surprises.
WEGRAT
That's it, Mr. von Sala. That's where the great difference lies. In the case of an official you can feel perfectly safe on that score. (With cheerful self-contempt) Such a one paints every year his nice little picture for the exhibition, and couldn't possibly do anything else.
REUMANN
It is still open to question who do most for the advancement of life and art: officials like you, Professor, or—our so-called men of genius.
WEGRAT