My dear friends, you all go on wishing each other a long life but which of us is really alive? Which of us really dares to live? Somewhere, far off in the distance, we catch a glimpse of life--but we hide our eyes and shrink away from it like transgressors. And that's our nearest approach to living! Do you really think you're alive--any one of you? Or do you think I am? (_She springs up with an inspired look_.) But I, at least--I--whose whole life is one long struggle against death--I who never sleep, who hardly breathe, who barely stand--I at least know how to laugh, how to love life and be thankful for it! (_She staggers to her feet, raising her glass, her voice no more than a hoarse whisper_.) And as the only living soul among you, I drink to the joy of living! The Others (_holding out their glasses_). Good! Good! Bravo! Beata. (_Draws a deep breath, sets down her glass, and looks about her confusedly. Her eyes rest on_ Richard, _and then turn to_ Michael, _to whom she speaks_.) I think I will take your advice and go into the other room for a little while. (_She rises with an effort_.) Kellinghausen. There, Beata! I warned you. Baron Ludwig (_offering her his arm_). Won't you take my arm, Countess? Beata. No, no--thanks! Michael, make my excuses. I shall be back in a few minutes. (_She lingers in the doorway with a last smile and a last look at_ Richard.) Good-bye. I shall be back--in a few minutes. (_Goes out_.) Kellinghausen (_to the others_). Don't be alarmed. My wife often breaks down in this way--I knew by her excitement that it was coming. Please sit down again. I assure you that in a few minutes she--(_A heavy fall is heard in the next room_. Richard _starts violently_. Michael _half springs from his seat, but controls himself with an effort. There is a short pause_.)--she'll be coming back laughing as usual. (_Whispers are heard behind the door to the left_. Richard _is seen to listen intently_.) What are you listening to? What's the matter? Richard (_agitated_). I beg your pardon--I thought I-- (Ellen _is heard to utter a piercing scream. The men start to their feet_. Michael _rushes out_.) Baron Ludwig. Surely that was Countess Ellen's voice? Prince. It doesn't look as if the Countess were going to come back laughing as usual. Michael _enters with a ghastly face_. Kellinghausen (_hoarsely_). The nearest doctor--any one--quick! (_Goes out again_. Richard _makes a motion as though to follow him, then turns and rushes out of the door to the right_.) Brachtmann. The Countess is subject to such attacks; but this seems--different. Prince.