[They shake hands warmly.
Robert (takes his hand quietly out of William’s, brings out his pipe, lights it and puffs smoke, then says as if to himself).
Acrobatic soul! (Puff, puff.) Well, well! (He turns to go; before opening the door R. he speaks over his shoulder to William.) I’ll send her out to you.
William.
Ah, never mind!—Well, if you really—
[Robert nods and disappears through the doorway. William draws a deep breath, deep joy at what has happened possesses him.
Ida (comes from the adjoining room, flies into his arms.)
Willy!!!
William.
Now—you—you two golden hearts have set me free. A new life! You can’t think how that inspires me. I seem quite great in my own eyes!—Ah, Ida, I can only now realise—how frightfully that weighed upon me, and now I feel such strength—such strength, Ida! You may rely on me, I will show him what the “good-for-nothing” can do. I’ll give father proofs. I will show him there is something in me: strength, living power as an artist, before which all shall bow—the stiffest necks shall bend—I feel it! Only that has crippled me. Now my fingers are twitching! I could compose, create—