Gustav [on the right of Adolf]. That's just how the thing starts, mark you. Take it from me, you're in danger of contracting epilepsy; if you aren't on your guard, if you don't live a careful and abstemious life, all round.
Adolf. What can I do to effect that?
Gustav. Above all, you must exercise the most complete continence.
Adolf. For how long?
Gustav. Six months at least.
Adolf. I can't do it. It would upset all our life together.
Gustav. Then it's all up with you.
Adolf. I can't do it.
Gustav. You can't save your own life? But tell me, as you've taken me into your confidence so far, haven't you any other wound that hurts you?—some other secret trouble in this multifarious life of ours, with all its numerous opportunities for jars and complications? There is usually more than one motif which is responsible for a discord. Haven't you got a skeleton in the cupboard, old chap, which you hide even from yourself? You told me a minute ago you'd given your child to people to look after. Why didn't you keep it with you?
[He goes behind the square table on the left and then behind the sofa.]