Nothing easier, Uncle Michael. What do you propose to do with the scoundrel who has been insulting you in his electioneering speeches? (_There is a startled movement among his listeners_.) You don't mean to challenge _him_, I suppose? Kellinghausen. What do you----? Norbert. Unless you treat the whole matter with silent contempt and I fancy you'll hardly do that it seems to me that a libel suit is the only alternative. Kellinghausen. Norbert--are you dreaming--or---- Norbert. Why--Uncle Michael--didn't you know? Prince. _Now_ you've done it, young man! Kellinghausen. Do any of you know what he's driving at? Brachtmann. Yes. Kellinghausen. Richard, what does this mean? What is going on behind my back? You call yourself my friend--why have you kept me in the dark? Richard (_very quietly_). In the first place, dear Michael, we only heard of the business an hour or two ago; in the second place (_as he speaks_, Beata _enters from behind_), I am mixed up in it myself. Kellinghausen. You? In a slander that concerns me? (Richard _nods without speaking_.) Then there was all the more reason---- Brachtmann. My dear Kellinghausen, the fault is mine. For the sake of the party, I asked Voelkerlingk not to-- Prince (_suddenly noticing_ Beata). H'm. Perhaps we had better-- (_he advances toward_ Beata). My dear Countess---- Beata _enters quietly_. Beata. Don't be afraid. I know what you are speaking of. I know all about it. Michael, if these gentlemen would allow us to talk the matter over by ourselves---- Kellinghausen. Thank you, my dear. But I think you had better keep out of it. Richard--Brachtmann--if you'll come to my study---- (_They both assent_.) Richard (_approaching_ Beata). I will say good-night, Countess. Beata. Good-night, my dear Voelkerlingk. (_Rapidly, in a low voice, as he bends above her hand_.) Does he know? Richard (_in the same tone_). Not yet. Beata (_aloud, with conventional cordiality_). I shall see you to-morrow? (Richard _bows, and follows the other men toward the door_.) Curtain. ACT III ACT III _The same scene: in the afternoon_. Holtzmann _is waiting. Enter_ Kellinghausen _in hat and fur-lined coat_. Kellinghausen.