Irene.

[With a sidelong look at him.] Then do you live out there now—in our old house?

Professor Rubek.

No, I have had it pulled down long ago. And I have built myself a great, handsome, comfortable villa on the site—with a park around it. It is there that we—[Stops and corrects himself.]—there that I usually live during the summer.

Irene.

[Mastering herself.] So you and—and the other one live out there now?

Professor Rubek.

[With a touch of defiance.] Yes. When my wife and I are not travelling—as we are this year.

Irene.

[Looking far before her.] Life was beautiful, beautiful by the Lake of Taunitz.