And if you withdraw it will be a serious blow to our party. (_Rapidly and emphatically._) The coming session of Parliament will determine the fate of the country. The parties are almost equal. Every loss is a blow of a vote to our cause. In this town we have no other candidate but you, who is sufficiently popular to make his election probable. If you withdraw from the contest, no matter what the reason, our opponents win. OLDENDORF. Unfortunately what you say is true. BOLZ (_with continued vehemence_). I won't dwell on my confidence in your talents. I am convinced that, in the House, and, possibly, as one of the ministers, you will be of service to your country. I merely ask you, now, to remember your duty to our political friends, who have pinned their faith on you, and to this paper and ourselves, who for three years have worked for the credit of the name of Oldendorf which heads our front page. Your honor is at stake, and every moment of wavering is wrong. OLDENDORF (_dignified_). You are exciting yourself without reason. I too deem it wrong to retire now when I am told that our cause needs me. But in confessing to you, my friend, that my decision means a great personal sacrifice, I am not compromising either our cause or ourselves as individuals. BOLZ (_soothingly_). Right you are! You are a loyal comrade. And so peace, friendship, courage! Your old Colonel won't be inexorable. OLDENDORF. He has grown intimate with Senden, who flatters him in every way, and has plans, I fear, which affect me also. I should feel still more worried but for knowing that I have now a good advocate in the Colonel's house. Adelaide Runeck has just arrived. BOLZ. Adelaide Runeck? She into the bargain! (_Quickly calling through the door on the right._) Kämpe, the article against the knight of the arrow is not to be written. Understand? _Enter_ KÄMPE. KÄMPE (_at the door, pen in hand_). But what is to be written, then? BOLZ. The devil only knows! See here! Perhaps I can induce Oldendorf to write the leading article for tomorrow himself. But at all events you must have something on hand. KÄMPE. But what? BOLZ (_excitedly_). For all I care write about emigration to Australia; that, at any rate, will give no offense. KÄMPE. Good! Am I to encourage it or advise against it? BOLZ (_quickly_).