(Ironically, shaking his finger at him across the table.) Thank you. But didn't you want to speak to me about the Yburgs?
v. Tietz.
Yes. What was I going to say?--Oh, yes. Well, if you hadn't taken it into your head to live like a hermit, you'd know that, for some time past, I've been a very frequent visitor at the Yburgs's.
Ebeling.
Oh, yes, I know. I go there myself sometimes--only not when other people are around.
v. Tietz.
Well, then, to make a long story short--why should I mince matters with you?--I am courting Margot.
Ebeling (startled).
Ah--you, too? You're also one of the crowd?
v. Tietz (conceitedly).