Richard.

What an absurd idea!

Kellinghausen.

One is always liable to make an ass of one's self. I'm not conscious of having blundered, but--oh, well, I sha'n't get anything out of you. (Raising the curtain and calling out--) Brachtmann--Usingen--come here a moment.

Richard.

Michael, if you take my advice we'll drop the election for the present. I give you my word that if anything occurs that reflects on you----

Kellinghausen.

On me? Reflects on me? What on earth do you mean? I'm thinking of the party. Our business is to look out for the party.

Enter Brachtmann and the Prince, followed a moment or two later by Norbert.

Brachtmann.