I had the article printed before hearing of your last interview with Oldendorf. (Very courteously.) My reason for regretting it is, that it is not quite true. I was too hasty in describing your personality to the public. Today, at least, it is no longer a true portrait; it is flattering.
COLONEL (bursting out).
Well, by the devil, that is rude!
BOLZ.
Your pardon—it is only true. I wish to convince you that a journalist can regret having written falsehoods.
COLONEL.
Sir! (Aside.) I must restrain myself, or he will always get the better of me.—Dr. Bolz, I see that you are a clever man and know your trade. Since, in addition, you seem inclined today to speak only the truth, I must beg you to tell me further if you, too, organized the demonstrations which purport to represent to me public sentiment.
BOLZ (bowing).
I have, as a matter of fact, not been inactive in the matter.
COLONEL (holding out the letter to him, angrily).