No, not that way. But the other man, who was practically sure of the
place, has broken his neck climbing a mountain.

FELIX

But then your chances should be better than ever. Whom could they
possibly consider besides you?

REUMANN

I suppose my chances wouldn't be bad. But I have preferred to forgo
them.

MRS. WEGRAT

How?

REUMANN

I won't accept the call.

MRS. WEGRAT

Is that out of superstition?

FELIX

Or out of pride?

REUMANN

Neither. But the thought of having another man's misfortune to thank
for my own advancement would be extremely painful to me. Half my life
would be spoiled for me. That is neither superstition nor pride, you
see, but just commonplace, small-minded vanity.

SALA

You're a subtle one, Doctor.

MRS. WEGRAT

Well, all I gather is that you are going to stay. Which shows how mean
your thoughts grow when you are sick.

REUMANN (_changing the subject on purpose_)

Well, Felix, how do you find life in a garrison?

FELIX

Fine.

MRS. WEGRAT

So you are really satisfied, boy?

FELIX

I feel very thankful to all of you. Especially to you, mamma.

MRS. WEGRAT

Why to me especially? After all, the decision lay with your father in
the last instance.

REUMANN

He would, of course, have preferred to see you choose a more peaceful
calling.

SALA

Oh, but to-day there is none more peaceful.

FELIX

That's where you are right, Mr. von Sala.--By the by, I was to give you
the regards of Lieutenant-Colonel Schrotting.

SALA

Thank you. Does he still remember me?

FELIX

Not he alone. We are constantly being reminded of you--at every meal,
in fact. Yours is among the pictures of former officers that hang in
the mess rooms.

WEGRAT (_enters_)

Good evening.--Why, Felix, are you here again? What a surprise!

FELIX

Good evening, papa. I have applied for a two-day furlough.

WEGRAT

Furlough ... furlough? A real one? Or is it another one of those little
brilliant tricks?

FELIX (_cheerfully and without taking offence_)

I am not in the habit of fibbing, papa, am I?

WEGRAT (_in the same tone_)

I meant no offense, my boy. Even if you had been guilty of deserting
the flag, your longing to see your mother would be sufficient excuse
for you.

MRS. WEGRAT

To see his parents, you mean.

WEGRAT

Of course--to see us all. But as you are a little under the weather,
you come foremost just now.--Well, how are you getting along, Gabrielle?
Bet