Trast. Are waiting for you, eh?

Lothar. (Staring at him) Exactly! (As he goes) What sort of a count is he? (Turns at the door and bows stiffly, clicking his heels and goes out)

Leonore. You have been away from home a long time, Herr Count?

Trast. I have inhabited the tropics for a quarter century.

Leonore. For pleasure?

Trast. As much as possible. Meanwhile I have been speculator in coffee, cloves and ivory, and elephant-hunter.

Leonore. (Laughing) In which of your many capacities am I to welcome you then, you many-gifted man?

Trast. You may take your choice, Gnadiges Fraulein.

Wilhelm. (At the door) The Herr Councillor is at your disposal.

Robert. I must----