t I had to do the
minister of war that favor. What will the girls say to it? And
Oldendorf?

[_Enter_ OLDENDORF.]

There he is himself.

[_Clears his throat_.]

He will be astonished. I can't help it, he must withdraw. Good
morning, Professor, you come just at the right moment.

OLDENDORF (_hastily_).

Colonel, there is a report in town that Mr. von Senden's party have
put you up as their candidate. I ask for your own assurance that you
would not accept such a nomination.

COLONEL.

And, supposing the proposition had been made to me, why should I not
accept as well as you? Yes, rather than you; for the motives that
would determine me are sounder than your reasons.

OLDENDORF.

So there is some foundation then to the rumor?

COLONEL.

To be frank, it is the truth. I have accepted. You see in me your
opponent.

OLDENDORF.

Nothing so bad has yet occurred to trouble our relations. Colonel,
could not the memory of a friendship, hearty and undisturbed for
years, induce you to avoid this odious conflict?

COLONEL.

Oldendorf, I could not act otherwise, believe me. It is your place now
to remember our old friendship. You are a younger man, let alone other
relationships; you are the one now to withdraw.

OLDENDORF (_more excitedly_).

Colonel, I have known you for years. I know how keenly and how deeply
you feel things and how little your ardent disposition fits you to
bear the petty vexations of current politics, the wearing struggle of
debates. Oh, my worthy friend, do listen to my exhortations and take
back your consent.

COLONEL.

Let that be my concern. I am an old block of hard timber. Think of
yourself, dear Oldendorf. You are young, you have fame as a scholar;
your learning assures you every success. Why, in another sphere of
activity, do you seek to exchange honor and recognition for naught but
hatred, mockery, and humiliation? For with such views as yours you
cannot fail to harvest them. Think it over. Be sensible, and withdraw.

OLDENDORF.

Colonel, could I follow my own inclinations I should do so on the
spot. But in this contest I am under obligations to my friends. I
cannot withdraw now.

COLONEL (_excitedly_).

Nor can I withdraw, lest I harm the good cause. We are no further now
than in the beginning. (_Aside_.) Obstinate fellow!

[_Both walk up and down on opposite sides of the stage._]

You have not the least chance whatever of being elected, Oldendorf; my
friends are su