v. Wolters (_embarrassed_). The world says so many things, Countess. The Lady. Tell me, to what extent has my name been associated with this affair? v. Wolters. I can't conceal the fact from you, Countess. Your name is mentioned. The Lady (_thoughtfully_). Yes, that's what my husband says. v. Wolters. But please let me add that not a shadow, not the slightest suspicion, has ever---- The Lady. But what else can they think? v. Wolters. My dear Countess, when a woman is as beauti-- I mean, that when a woman is the centre of so much interest, it's not surprising that some notice was taken of the attentions which he-- The Lady (_somewhat impatiently_). Yes--but----? v. Wolters. It naturally was observed that my friend---- The Lady. Our friend had a--what shall I say--a susceptible heart. We knew that, who knew him so well. This was not the first time he had--been interested in a woman. And that was why I arranged to have him seen in our house as little as possible--lately, not at all. v. Wolters. That fact did not escape notice, Countess. And as Baron Renoir was frequently seen with you--instead of---- The Lady (_somewhat excited_). Don't mention that name, Herr von Wolters! I can't stand it! What could have possessed that man Renoir--? But do tell me the rest. I've heard only the merest details. They've only told me what they thought necessary. v. Wolters. No one knows what actually occurred between the two men. He begged me to ask no questions. You know, he was so reserved of late. It may be that certain expressions which passed between them a few days ago--after they had been drinking--had something to do with it--no one knows. Perhaps there was some insult which was given in private--and which neither of them would make public. The assurance that the injury, whatever it may have been, was irreparable, must satisfy us. The Lady. Oh, how I hate that man Renoir!--quite apart from the trouble which he has gotten me into! My husband warned me against him long ago. "That scoundrel will compromise you some day," he said, "and then I'll have to fight a duel with him." Instead--this! Oh, you poor, poor darling! And now, when all was so quiet and peaceful between us! v. Wolters. My dear Countess, if you think that the change which came over him in the last few months betokened peace and quiet---- The Lady (_nervously_). I don't know anything about that! It wasn't my fault! Was I to blame if he insisted on having notions? Tell me one thing, Herr von Wolters, did he die easily?