BEERMANN. This is what I mean. He is true in his own fashion. He remains kind to his wife, takes a good care of his family, and that is the principal thing. That other which you have in mind is only an ideal.
STROEBEL. Ideals are lived up to.
BEERMANN. Well, yes. But if we don't live up to them, we at least respect them.
STROEBEL. Herr Beermann, I am astounded. You are the President of the Society for the Suppression of Vice?
BEERMANN. Can I help it that I was elected?
STROEBEL. But at least you represent the views of your Society. I thought you came here for that reason.
BEERMANN. For what reason?
STROEBEL. To express your satisfaction at our discovery of the business of this person.
BEERMANN. You thought I came here on that account?
STROEBEL. Didn't you?