COLONEL (irritated).
I tell you, that will not be the case.
OLDENDORF.
But if it should be? How odious that would be for both of us! How would you feel toward me then! I might possibly welcome a defeat in my heart; for you it would be a terrible mortification, and, Colonel, I dread this possibility.
COLONEL.
For that very reason you should withdraw.
OLDENDORF.
I can no longer do so; but there is still time for you.
COLONEL (vehemently).
Thunder and lightning, sir, I have said yes; I am not the man to cap it with a no!