[Strides to the door, and gives the order and in an instant returns, picks up Helene's wraps and proceeds affectionately to help her on with overshoes, cloak and hat.]
Lassalle. The fact is that life lies in mutual service—any other course is merely existence. Those who do most for others enjoy most. Well, good-night, dear Karl Marx, [Shakes hands] and you, Doctor Haenle—what would life be to me without you! Good-night, Herr Holthoff and dear Frau Holthoff!
[Kisses the Frau's hand. Helene helps him on with overcoat and hands him his hat. They disappear through the right entrance, arm in arm, faces turned toward each other, talking earnestly. As they go through the door, Lassalle lifts his hat to the company and says, "Good-night, everybody." Those on the stage turn and stare at one another in amazement. Doctor Haenle breaks the silence with a laugh.]
Doctor Haenle. Well, well, well!
Herr Holthoff. She is carried off on the back of a centaur.
Karl Marx. A whirlwind wooing!
Frau Holthoff. Affinities!
ACT TWO
Scene: Hotel veranda in the Swiss Mountains.