"You're right as far as the punch goes, Bernhard, but as for the views, they are my own, and I think you owe it to the good cause to accept the nomination, since every one says that you have by far the best chance to defeat the ultramontanist."
"Well, we shall see how matters look to-morrow at the Diet," said Bernhard.
"You will be there, at all events?"
"Of course."
Thea had hitherto listened in silence. "Bernhard," she now said, suddenly, "if you were elected you would have to go to Berlin in the autumn."
"Possibly."
"But, Bernhard, you know----" She leaned over him and whispered a few words in his ear.
"No need to trouble ourselves about it, my child," he replied. "In the first place, my nomination is entirely uncertain, not to speak of my election----"
"But you would accept it?"
"Good heavens! I really do not know. 'Tis a matter for grave reflection."