I beg your pardon, Count Kellinghausen--but I must remind you that I am not in your service.
Kellinghausen.
My dear Herr Holtzmann, you are known as one of the most zealous supporters of our party. Probably you attach some importance to that fact. Your silence in this matter surprises me, and I shall not fail to draw my own conclusions.
Holtzmann (rising).
You must draw what conclusions you please, sir. Personally I have nothing to gain by serving your party. I might have a living at any moment, and if I have preferred, for the present, to devote myself to politics, it was only because I thought I could be of use to the cause.
Kellinghausen (after a pause).
I have offended you. You must make allowances for my excitement--this business has unnerved me. (Holds out his hand.) Sit down again and let me ask you a question. Has this Meixner any recognised standing in his party, or is he merely a hanger-on?
Holtzmann.
He must have a certain standing, since he is their candidate for the next election.
Kellinghausen.