STRÜBEL. So that's it! Just as it is only the far-away princesses who are always near to us.
FRAU V. BROOK. Permit me to remark, Your Highness—that it is high time——
THE PRINCESS. As you see, those who are near must hurry away. [Offering him the rose again.] Well?
STRÜBEL. [Is about to take it, but lets his hand fall.] With the far-away princess there—[pointing down] it would have been in harmony, but with the—[Shakes his head, then softly and with emotion.] No, thanks—I'd rather not.
[He bows and goes out.
THE PRINCESS. [Smiling pensively, throws away the artificial flower.] I'm going to ask my fiancé to let me send him a rose.
FRAU V. BROOK. Your Highness, I am very much—surprised!
THE PRINCESS. Well, I told you that I wasn't sleepy.
CURTAIN