Sir, such brazen-facedness I have never yet experienced.

BOLZ (with a bow).

I am a journalist, and claim what you have just called the privilege of my profession.

[Grand march by brass band. Enter CARL quickly.]

COLONEL (going toward him).

Shut the garden gate; no one is to come in. [The music stops.]

BOLZ (at the window).

You are locking your friends out; this time I am innocent.

CARL.

Ah, Colonel, it is too late. The singers are back there in the garden, and in front a great procession is approaching the house; it is Mr. von Senden and the entire club.