The house of Kellinghausen! As I look back over my life, I don't know how to sum up all I owe to it. (_He turns to_ Beata.) To you, my dear friend---- Kellinghausen (_with forced gaiety_). Is this a settlement in full, my dear fellow? Richard. (_Taken aback, but recovering himself instantly_.) You're right, Michael. There's no use trying; but there's something I want to say to you. Kellinghausen. Hear! hear! Richard (_to the others_). Since yesterday, you all know what I owe him. My success is his doing, all his doing. If I've gained my end, if I've reached the goal at last, it's to Kellinghausen I owe it. Here's to my good friend and yours! The Others. Hear! Hear! (_They clink their glasses_.) Kellinghausen. (_With a strained laugh, as he and_ Richard _touch glasses_.) You might have left that out. Richard. I should have written it if I hadn't said it. Kellinghausen (_still on his feet_). Gentlemen--Beata--I may speak for all of you, I believe? I think our friend Voelkerlingk proved conclusively yesterday that if he has taken my place it is because he has the best right to it. (_On the verge of an outburst_.) A better right to it--than-- (_He is checked by a terrified glance from_ Beata, _who utters a low exclamation_.) Well--well--I'm not much of a speech-maker.--Gentlemen--Beata--long life to our friend Voelkerlingk--long life to my successor! Beata. (_In a low voice, while the others gather about_ Richard.) Long life to him! (_She presses her hand to her heart, and rests heavily against the arm of her chair_.) Prince (_to_ Kellinghausen). Is anything wrong with the Countess? Kellinghausen. Beata! Beata (_raising herself with a smile_). Yes? Kellinghausen. Would you not rather go into the drawing-room? You look tired. (_She shakes her head_.) Richard. (_In a formal tone, with a glance at_ Michael.) We all beg of you, Countess---- Beata. (_Looking from one to the other with growing apprehension_.) No--no--no--I'm quite--quite--on the contrary--_I_ have a toast to propose. (Richard _makes a startled gesture_.) Yes--a toast of my own! But please all sit down first---- Prince. Woman disposes! Kellinghausen. Beata, you are overtaxing yourself. Be careful. Beata.