Enter Schwartze. He takes out a pistol-case and opens it. Takes a pistol, cocks it with difficulty, examines the barrel, and aims at a point on the wall. His arm trembles violently. He strikes it angrily, and lets the pistol sink. Enter Max.

SCHWARTZE.

[Without turning.] Who's there?

MAX.

It's I, uncle.

SCHWARTZE.

Max? Ah, you may come in.

MAX.

Uncle, Marie told me-- What are the pistols for, uncle?

SCHWARTZE.