HAGEN. Let us grant that the consequences of educating and elevating the Nibelungs... of teaching them to love righteousness... would be that they were deprived of all their gold, and forced to labor at getting more for a wicked capitalist like me. Would it not still be right to teach them?
GER. It might, perhaps.
HAGEN. Then you will try it?
GER. No... I'm afraid not.
HAGEN. Why not?
GER. [Gravely.] Well... for one thing... I have weighty reasons for doubting the perfectibility of the Nibelungs.
HAGEN. [Gazes at him; then shakes with laughter.] Really, Gerald, that is the one clever thing I've heard you say!
GER. [Laughing.] Thank you!
HAGEN. [Rises and looks at watch.] Your mother was coming down. Ah! Mrs. Isman!
MRS. IS. [Enters, left.] Good afternoon, Prince Hagen.