Lassalle. [Exasperatingly cool] It would be the first time I ever ran away from danger.
Helene. If you remain here you may never have another chance.
Lassalle. You mean that your father or that little prince, Yanko, may do me violence?
Helene. No one can tell what my father may do in his present state of mind.
Lassalle. Then I will remain and see.
Helene. [In agony] We are wasting time. Do you understand that as soon as my absence is discovered, they will hunt for me—even now the police may be notified!
Lassalle. Let cowards and criminals run—we have done nothing of which we need be ashamed.
Helene. Surely not—but what more can I say! Oh, Ferdinand, my Ferdinand!
Lassalle. Listen to me——
[Knocking is heard at the door. She involuntarily moves toward him for protection. He enfolds her in his arms just an instant. More knocking and louder. Lassalle tenderly puts her away from him and goes to the door, opens it. The landlord stands there with the porter behind him.]