(He sits in thought. He is very tired, and soon he is asleep. The lighting becomes strange; he dreams, and we see his dream. The Spirit of Culture appears, a noble female figure in white robes.)
Culture. A friend. I am Culture, who has so long hovered well-placed over happy Germany.
Emperor (who gives her royal honor). A friend—a consort! I would hear you say, O Queen, that I have done some things for you.
Culture. You have done much for me. I have held my head higher since you were added to the roll of sovereigns. I may have smiled at you at times, as when you seemed to think that you were the two of us in one, but as Kings go you have been a worthy King.
Emperor. It was all done for you.
Culture. So, for long, I thought. I looked upon Germany's golden granaries, plucked from ground once barren; its busy mills and furnaces, its outstretching commerce and teeming people and noble seats of learning, all mellowing in the sun, and I heard you say they were dedicate to me, and I was proud. You have honored me, my Emperor, and now I am here to be abased by you. All the sweet garments you have robed me in, tear them off me and send me naked out of Germany.
Emperor. You would not have me sign?
Culture. I warn you first to know yourself, you who have gloated in a looking-glass too long.
Emperor. I sign, so that Germany may be greater still, to spread your banner farther; thus I make the whole world cultured.