Beata (_laughing_). Pretty speeches at our age? Baron Ludwig. You may talk of my age, but not of yours. Beata. Look at the grey hair--here, on my temples; and my medicine-bottles over there. I never stir without them now. Baron Ludwig. I have been distressed to hear of your illness. Beata. Yes, my heart bothers me--an old story. My heart is tired--and I--I'm not. And when I drive it too hard it grows a little restive now and then. But it doesn't matter! (_Enter_ Ellen.) Is that you, Ellen? Come in, dear. Ellen (_in skating dress_). Mother, dear, I didn't know you had a visitor. How do you do, your Excellency? Baron Ludwig. How do you do, young lady? Dear me dear me what have you been growing into? Ellen. Into life, your Excellency! Baron Ludwig. Ha--very good--very neat. So many people just grow past it. Beata. And how was the skating, dear? Ellen. Oh, heavenly. Norbert and I simply flew. Poor Miss Mansborough--we left her miles behind! Beata. Well, run away now. Take off your fur jacket--you're too warm. Ellen. Good-bye, your Excellency. Baron Ludwig. _Au revoir_, little Countess. (Ellen _goes out_.) Baron Ludwig. What a little wonder you've made of her! Beata. She _is_ developing, isn't she? Baron Ludwig. And my nephew Norbert--you have developed him too. A very comprehensive piece of work. (Beata _laughs_.) Baron Ludwig. If only he doesn't stray from the path you've marked out for him. Beata. Ah--you are thinking of that pamphlet of his? Baron Ludwig (_nods_). An attack on duelling, I understand? Well, it's no business of mine. Beata. He is not as immature as you think. Baron Ludwig. Indeed? _Enter_ Conrad. Conrad (_announcing_). Baron von Brachtmann, his Highness Prince Usingen. Baron Ludwig. The pillars of the state! Brachtmann especially. This is something for me to remember, Countess. _Enter_ Brachtmann _and_ Prince. Conrad _goes out_. Brachtmann. My dear Countess---- Beata. I am so glad to see you. And you, Prince. Always faithful to the cause? Prince.