Richard.
What do you mean?
Baron Ludwig.
A certain personage was heard to say after your speech: That is the man I need. Don't look as if you saw a ghost. You deserve it all, my dear Richard.
Richard.
(Walks up and down in agitated silence.) Ludwig--you have led me to the top of a high mountain and shown me the promised land in which I shall never set foot. Give me time to renounce the idea.
Baron Ludwig.
Why should you talk of renouncing it? But this brings me to the object of my visit. Richard, how long do you suppose your enemies will wait before making capital out of your speech?
Richard.
I'm ready for them, my dear fellow. I'll pay the shot--to the last penny!