Perhaps! Those two have such a power—Mrs Buchner too—but particularly Ida. I have thought that might save me—At first I checked myself— ROBERT (_thoughtfully_). Yes they have! they have a power, and just because of that—at first—I—to be frank, I blamed you. WILLIAM. I felt it. ROBERT. Well just think. I heard something about an engagement, and then I saw Ida; she was so merry, singing, up and down stairs, without the least thought of— WILLIAM (_rising_). Well I understood you, I even felt you were right. What would you have! ROBERT. Well—I too am—I must admit it’s quite a different matter now—As I—as I said—it was chiefly—Quite jolly again? WILLIAM. Perfectly. ROBERT. Then you’ll come along soon? WILLIAM. I’ll only just—you go first. ROBERT. Right. (_Going, stops._) I can’t help it—I’ve got to tell you. Your whole conduct—about father, and—altogether—it’s something to admire. With my cursed prejudices—I too—downright accused you. One—devil take it! It’s a long time since I’ve had such a desire to spit at myself. You’re glad to hear that, eh? Well, perhaps you’ll do me the favour to—if I—I’ve certainly done my level best to vex you since you’ve been home, so—I’m sorry for it—there! WILLIAM. Brother! [_They shake hands warmly._ ROBERT (_takes his hand quietly out of William’s, brings out his pipe, lights it and puffs smoke, then says as if to himself_). Acrobatic soul! (_Puff, puff._) Well, well! (_He turns to go; before opening the door R. he speaks over his shoulder to William._) I’ll send her out to you. WILLIAM. Ah, never mind!—Well, if you really— [_Robert nods and disappears through the doorway. William draws a deep breath, deep joy at what has happened possesses him._ IDA (_comes from the adjoining room, flies into his arms_.) Willy!!! WILLIAM. Now—you—you two golden hearts have set me free. A new life! You can’t think how that inspires me. I seem quite great in my own eyes!—Ah, Ida, I can only now realise—how frightfully that weighed upon me, and now I feel such strength—such strength, Ida! You may rely on me, I will show him what the “good-for-nothing” can do. I’ll give father proofs. I will show him there is something in me: strength, living power as an artist, before which all shall bow—the stiffest necks shall bend—I feel it! Only that has crippled me. Now my fingers are twitching! I could compose, create— IDA. Ah you see! Now it’s all right! Now I have your own old self again—Dearest, I could sob—I could—shout for joy. Wasn’t I right? Nothing was dead in you, it only slept. It will all wake anew, as I always told you. It _has_ awaked— [_She embraces and kisses him. Still embracing they pace the room in silent happiness._ WILLIAM (_stopping, and looking with happy bewilderment first into her eyes, then round the room_). In these cold dreary walls—what joy—like blooming spring! [_They kiss each other, closely entwined in silent happiness. They continue walking._