Baron Ludwig.
My dear Richard--we're quite alone, I suppose? (Richard nods.) Forgive the suggestion, but-- (he glances about the room) Leonie sometimes overhears----
Richard.
Leonie is out.
Baron Ludwig.
So much the better. But first let me tell you with what admiration I listened to you just now--what breathless admiration! (Richard makes a gesture of thanks.) Still, I confess that your having to speak on such a subject just at present made me--er--a little nervous----
Richard.
Why so?
Baron Ludwig.
I was almost afraid--but we'll go into that presently.--Well, at all events, if nothing goes wrong, you may look upon this as the starting-point of a career that any man living might envy you.