ety of which Senden is a director. It is
casting out a great net for voters. And the Colonel and the ladies are
going?

KORB.

I hear they are. I, too, received a card.

BOLZ (_to himself_).

Has it come to this? Poor Oldendorf!--And Adelaide at the club fete of
Mr. von Senden!

KORB (_to himself_).

How am I going to begin and find out about his love-affairs?
(_Aloud._) Oh, see here, Mr. Conrad, one thing more! Have you possibly
some real good friend in this concern to whom you could introduce me?

BOLZ.

Why, old chap?

KORB.

It is only--I am a stranger here, and often have commissions and
errands where I need advice. I should like to have some one to consult
should you chance to be away, or with whom I could leave word for you.

BOLZ.

You will find me here at almost any time of day. [_At the door._]
Bellmaus! [_Enter_ BELLMAUS.] You see this gentleman here. He is an
honored old friend of mine from my native village. Should he happen
not to find me here, you take my place.--This gentleman's name is
Bellmaus, and he is a good fellow.

KORB.

I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr. Bellmaus.

BELLMAUS.

And I to make yours. You have not told me his name yet.

BOLZ.

Korb. He has had a great deal to carry in his life, and has often
carried me on his back, too.

BELLMAUS.

I too am pleased, Mr. Korb. [_They shake hands._]

KORB.

Well, that is in order, and now I must go or Miss Adelaide will be
waiting.

BOLZ.

Good-by! Hope to see you very soon again.

[_Exit_ KORB; _exit_ BELLMAUS _through door on the right._]

BOLZ (_alone_).

So this Senden is courting her! Oh, that is bitter!

_Enter_ HENNING, _followed by_ MILLER.

HENNING (_in his dressing-gown, hurriedly, with a printed roll in his
hand_).

Your servant, Mr. Bolz! Is "opponent" spelt with one p or with two
p's? The new proofreader has corrected it one p.

BOLZ (_deep in his thoughts_).

Estimable Mr. Henning, the _Union_ prints it with two p's.

HENNING.

I said so at once. [_To_ MILLER.] It must be changed; the press is
waiting.

[_Exit_ MILLER _hastily._]

I took occasion to read the leading article. Doubtless you wrote it
yourself. It is very good, but too sharp, Mr. Bolz. Pepper and
mustard--that will give offense; it will cause bad blood.

BOLZ (_still deep in his thoughts, violently_).

I always did have an antipathy to this man!

[Illustration: _Permission Union Deutsche Verlagsgesellschaft,