Rita: "Must!" And why?
Friedrich: Because—because—because—well, dear me—because—otherwise everything will stop!
Rita: What will stop? Life?
Friedrich: No, but morals.
Rita: Ah, I thank you. Now I understand you. One must be moral because—otherwise morality will stop.
Friedrich: Why, yes. That is very simple.
Rita: Yes—now, please, what would I have to do in order to fulfill your demand? I am curious like a child now, and shall listen obediently. (She sits down again.)
Friedrich (also sits down and grasps her hand, warmly): Well, see, my dear Erna, everything can still be undone. In Rudolstadt everybody believes you are in England with relatives. Even if you have never been there——
Rita: Often enough. My best engagements.
Friedrich: So much the better. Then you certainly speak English?