Doctor.—Listen, you democrat. When two knights are in love with one noble damsel, that love usually ends dramatically—and the third party usually gets the noble damsel.
Anton.—And the knights?
Doctor.—Let them perish.
Anton.—What then do you suppose will happen?
Doctor.—I do not know. Pretwic is a passionate man. He does not foresee anything—I see only the logic of things which is favorable to me, and I shall not be stupid enough to place any obstacles to my happiness.
Anton.—I am sure you will help it along in case of need.
Doctor.—Well, I am a physician. It is my duty to assist nature.
Anton.—The programme is ready. I know you. I only wish to ask you how you know what you say is so. Maybe it is only a story.
Doctor.—I can have verification of it through the princess's ex-governess.
Anton.—You must know as soon as possible.