Isn't it more than you can bear? Kellinghausen. Perhaps--but it can't be helped. I had to have these people--I've got to go through with it. Beata. Yes, you've got to go through with it. And so have I. I need them more than you do. Kellinghausen. You? Why? Beata. You will see later. Kellinghausen. You have no right to keep anything from me---- Beata. Are you keeping nothing from _me_? (_He turns away_.) Michael, here is a letter in which I have written something I can't well say to you. Will you promise not to open it till luncheon is over? Kellinghausen. Yes. Beata. You give me your word? Kellinghausen. Yes. Beata (_giving him the letter_). Here it is. Kellinghausen. Thank you. Then--I suppose--we-- (_Goes to the door_.) Beata. Michael! Kellinghausen. Eh? Beata. You know I'm not very strong--oh, don't misunderstand me! I'm not trying to work on your feelings--but you know how much is at stake. If Richard Voelkerlingk should die suddenly, and I---- Kellinghausen (_tortured_). I beg of you, Beata! I---- Beata. Well? Kellinghausen. Go on. Beata. You had something to say. Kellinghausen (_confused_). I--I was only going to tell you--that there will be no duel. Beata. Ah.--Then the danger I spoke of is removed, and I---- _Enter_ Conrad. Conrad. His Highness Prince Usingen and Baron Brachtmann are in the drawing-room. Kellinghausen. I will come at once. (Conrad _goes out_.) Beata. If you don't mind I will join you at table. Kellinghausen. You are not well. Beata (_carelessly_). It's nothing to speak of. Don't keep them waiting.--(Kellinghausen _stands before her, shaken with tearless sobs_. Beata _goes up to him and lays her hand softly on his arm_.) Michael, dear, when I think how I have hurt you I should like to fall down before you and kiss your hands--I should like to show you--what is in my heart--but it's too late to say such things now---- Kellinghausen. Good-bye. (_He goes out_. Beata _rings and_ Conrad _enters_.) Beata. Ask Countess Ellen to bring me my drops. (Conrad _goes out_. Beata _stretches out her arms and passes her hands over her face_.)