BEERMANN. Do you expect a respectable gentleman to appear in court and in the presence of all people to say, yes; it is true that I ... and so forth?
STROEBEL. Why not?
BEERMANN [shouting]. But they are all respectable fathers of families!
STROEBEL. But, my dear Herr Beermann, what difference does that make to me?
BEERMANN. It must make a difference. It makes a difference to everybody at all times.
STROEBEL. I assure you that I am not a bit sentimental.
BEERMANN [glancing over to Reisacher]. Could we have a few words together, alone?
STROEBEL. If you wish it. Reisacher, finish your police report in the outer office.
REISACHER. Certainly, Herr Assessor.
(Takes several sheets of paper and goes out through the middle door.)