Richard.
Ludwig! It's a long time since you've given me this pleasure.
Baron Ludwig.
Thank you, Richard.
Richard.
Will you excuse me a moment? I am finishing a letter. (He folds the letter, puts it into an envelope and writes the address, while Norbert and Baron Ludwig are greeting each other.) There!
Norbert (taking the letter).
An answer, father?
Richard.
As soon as possible. (Norbert goes out.)