MR. Y. That is to say, vanity, ambition, could gain pardon where need could not?
MR. X. Yes, that's the way it is. And nevertheless need should be the strongest motive, the only one to be pardoned. But I can change that as little as I can change my will not to steal under any condition.
MR. Y. And you count it a great virtue that you cannot—h'm—steal?
MR. X. With me not to steal is just as irresistible as stealing is to some, and, therefore, no virtue. I cannot do it and they cannot help doing it. You understand, of course, that the idea of wanting to possess this gold is not lacking in me. Why don't I take it then? I cannot; it's an inability, and a lack is not a virtue. And there you are!
[Closes the case with a bang. At times stray clouds have dimmed the light in the room and now it darkens with the approaching storm.]
MR. X. How close it is! I think we'll have some thunder.
[Mr. Y. rises and shuts the door and window.]
MR. X. Are you afraid of thunder?
MR. Y. One should be careful.
[They sit again at table.]