I thank you for your communication even if I cannot attach weight to it, and I am glad to have met in you one of the editorial staff. Journalists, I find, are dangerous people, and it is just as well to secure their good will; although I, as an unimportant person, will try never to furnish matter for a newspaper article. [_As_ BELLMAUS _lingers._] Can I do anything more for you? BELLMAUS (_with warmth_). Yes, Miss Runeck, if you would be so good as to accept this copy of my poems. They are poems of youth, to be sure, my first attempts, but I count on your friendly indulgence. [_Draws a gilt-edged book from his pocket, and hands it to her._] ADELAIDE. I thank you heartily, Mr. Bellmaus. Never before has a poet presented me with his works. I shall read the beautiful book through in the country, and, under my trees, shall rejoice that I have friends in town who spare a thought for me too, when they represent beauty for other people. BELLMAUS (_fervently_). Rest assured, Miss Runeck, that no poet will forget you, who has once had the good fortune to make your acquaintance. [_Exit with a deep bow._] ADELAIDE. This Mr. Schmock with the three glasses of punch is well worth cultivating, I should say. Scarcely have I arrived in town when my room turns into a regular business office, where editors and authors ply their trade. I fear that is an omen. [_Exit to the left._] _It grows dark. The_ COLONEL _enters from the garden._ COLONEL (_slowly coming forward_). I am glad that all is over between us. [_Stamping his foot._] I am very glad! [_In a depressed tone._] I feel free and more relieved than for a long time. I think I could actually sing! At this moment I am the subject of conversation over all tea-cups, on all beer-benches. Everywhere arguing and laughter: It serves him right, the old fool! Damn! [_Enter_ CARL, _with lights and the newspaper_.] Who told you to bring the lamp? CARL. Colonel, it is your hour for reading the newspaper. Here it is. [_Lays it on the table_.] COLONEL.