HAGEN. The people! Do you believe that in that mass of ignorance and corruption which you call the people there is the power to rule the world?
EST. What is it that has made the people corrupt? What is it that has kept them in ignorance? What is it but your gold? It lies upon them like a mountain's weight! It crushes every aspiration for freedom... every effort after light! Teach them... help them... then see if they cannot govern themselves!
HAGEN. I meant to do it...
EST. Yes... so does every rich man! When only he has the time to think of it! When only his power is secure! I have heard my father say it... a score of times. But there are always new rivals to trample... new foes to fight... new wrongs and horrors to be perpetrated! The time to do it is now... NOW!
HAGEN. Estelle...
CAL. [Enters hurriedly.] Prince Hagen!
HAGEN. What is it?
CAL. A message from Isman. There is bad news from Washington.
HAGEN. Well?
CAL. A. bill has been introduced in Congress... it is expected to pass both houses to-night... your property is to be confiscated!