You have questioned _me_, Michael; let me question you. Must every natural instinct end in remorse and repentance? Sin? I am not conscious of sinning. I did the best that it was in me to do. I simply refused to be crushed by your social laws. I asserted my right to live; my right to self-preservation. Perhaps it was another way of suicide--that's no matter. You know what my life has been--how I've had to buy it, hour by hour and drop by drop, at the nearest chemist's--well, wretched as it is, I've loved it too dearly to disown it now! Yes, I've loved it--I've loved everything--everything around me--you too, Michael--ah, don't laugh--yes, you too--even if I've--ah-- (_Her breath comes in long gasps and she reels and clutches a chair, closing her eyes as she leans against it. Then she opens them again_.) Which one of you will--help me to the door? (Richard _makes a movement, and then draws back_.) Kellinghausen. Beata, from now on there will be no one to help you. Beata. Thank you. (_With an intense effort, she walks out of the room_.) Kellinghausen (_to_ Richard). And now----? Richard. Do what you like. Say what you like. Curse me--shoot me. I sha'n't defend myself. Kellinghausen. You admit that one of us must die? Richard. No; I don't admit it; but I am at your orders. Kellinghausen. A duel between us is impossible---- Richard. Impossible---- Kellinghausen. I don't mean on account of the children. _That's_ all at an end. Richard. Why must it be at an end if one of us dies? But I am at your orders. Kellinghausen. I have pledged my word not to bring any scandal on the party. You are under the same obligation. Richard. Yes. Kellinghausen. So that the only thing left---- Richard. Before you go any further, let me tell you that I decline to go through the farce of an American duel. Kellinghausen. You decline--? Perhaps you want to sneak out of the whole business? Richard. You don't believe that! Kellinghausen. Well--what other way is there? Richard. I know a way--but---- (Norbert's _voice is heard outside, speaking with_ Conrad.) Kellinghausen. (_With sudden decision, opening the door_.) Norbert! Richard (_following him_). For God's sake, Michael--do you want to disgrace my whole house? Kellinghausen (_opening the door_). You shall see.--Norbert! Come in, my boy--come!