SCHWARTZE.
Not once?
VON KELLER.
Well, I called on her once; but--
SCHWARTZE.
Your relations were friendly?
VON KELLER.
Oh, entirely friendly--of course, only friendly. [A pause.]
SCHWARTZE.
[Passes his hand over his forehead, looks earnestly at Von Keller; then, speaking absently.] So? Then, honestly--if it might be--if--if-- [Gets up, goes to Von Keller, and sits down again, trying to quiet himself.] Dr. von Keller, we both live in a quiet world, where scandals are unknown. But I have grown old, very old. And therefore I can't--can't control my thoughts as I should. And I can't rid myself of an idea which has--suddenly--taken possession of me. I have just had a great joy which I don't want to be embittered. But, to quiet an old man, I beg you--give me your word of honor that--