BEERMANN. Do you find that impossible?
FRAU BEERMANN. Even the best Christian family principles must have some foundation. What was I supposed to admire?
BEERMANN. You ask that now?
FRAU BEERMANN. Perhaps I gave it up sooner than others. But that is due to our relationship. We were always together. Where is a man to get pose and character enough to last him for twenty-four hours every day?
BEERMANN. So that is about your conception of our married life?
FRAU BEERMANN. That is it exactly.
BEERMANN. And after all the years ...
FRAU BEERMANN. I acquired it rather early.
BEERMANN. Now, after twenty-six years you declare that you are unhappy.
FRAU BEERMANN. No, Fritz, it has not led us to unhappiness. There has been no sudden shattering of an ideal. Our marriage was not an ideal and ... don't feel offended ... your personality was never so immaculate, that one stain more or less would spoil the effect.