HAUSER. Remain firm. For Heaven's sake don't fall into the trap that by confessing you will improve this fine job. [A loud and prolonged ringing of the electric bell is heard.]
BEERMANN [frightened, exclaims]. There, do you hear that?
HAUSER. Some visitor, I suppose.
BEERMANN. This is no time to make visits. [Anxiously picking up the diary.] What shall I do with the damned thing? [Takes out a volume of the encyclopedia and wants to hide the diary in it but hesitates, and then puts the volume back on the shelf.] Lord, where shall I put it?
HAUSER. Come, give it to me.
BEERMANN [Gives him the book and Hauser puts it in his side pocket.]
HAUSER. No one will search me for it.
BEERMANN. Stay here with me ... please.
HAUSER. If it gives you any pleasure, yes; but man alive, pull yourself together. Suppose it really were the police; you are trembling all over. [A knock on the door.]
BEERMANN [crouching]. Quiet now. [Another knock.] Come in. [Betty comes in from the left and hands Beermann a visiting card.]