Muhlingk. What's that, Kurt?
Kurt. An exclamation of admiration, Father; nothing else.
Muhlingk. No, I didn't have it as easy as you, my boy. You might well follow my example. I don't like to play the spender and I don't care to see it in my children, either. That is the only way one can live tastefully!
Kurt. --and cheap, too!
Leonore. Your accusation doesn't apply to me, papa.
Frau Muhlingk. Will you condescend to give us an explanation then?
Leonore. Mama!
Frau Muhlingk. (Nervously) Well?
Leonore. (Rising) Oh, why can't you let me work out my own salvation? I am modest enough--I only ask to be allowed to live my own life.
Muhlingk. You call that modest? If that is modest, what is to become of the sanctity of family ties?