RODRIGO. (Comes down the stairs, carrying Hugenberg in his arms.) This thing has a royal police-captain for a father and not as much courage in his body as the raggedest hobo!
HUGENBERG. If there was nothing more to it than life and death, then you'd soon learn to know me!
RODRIGO. Even with his lover's woe, little brother don't weigh more than sixty kilos. I'll let myself be hung on that statement any time.
SCHIGOLCH. Throw him up to the ceiling and catch him by the feet. That'll whip his young blood into the proper rhythm right from the start.
HUGENBERG. (Kicking his legs.) Hooray, hooray, I shall be expelled from school!
RODRIGO. (Setting him down at the foot of the stairs.) You've never been to any sensible school at all yet.
SCHIGOLCH. Here many a man has already won his spurs. Only, no timidity! First, I'll set before you a drop of what can't be had anywhere for money. (Opens a cupboard under the stairs.)
HUGENBERG. Now if she doesn't come dancing in on the instant, I'll wallop you two so you'll still rub your tails in the hereafter.
RODRIGO. (Seated left of the table.) The strongest man in the world little brother will wallop! Let mamma put long trowsers on you first. (Hugenberg sits opposite him.)
HUGENBERG. I'd rather you lent me your mustache.