Richard (_clasps her hands_).

One thing more. Listen to me. You played too reckless a game. Such things are avenged. No one knows what happened in the past. Twelve years have covered it; but it's ill disturbing the dead. Such things are avenged. Remember that.

Beata.

Well--and what of it?

Richard.

What of it?

Beata.

I shouldn't care--except for Norbert and Ellen. For I mean them to have all the happiness we have missed. Nothing must ever come between-- Hush! That is Holtzmann's voice. (_She presses her left hand to her heart_.) Quite steady. (_She holds out her right hand to_ Richard.) Feel my pulse it's perfectly steady.

Conrad _enters_.

Conrad.

Herr Holtzmann----

_Enter_ Holtzmann. Conrad _goes out_.

Holtzmann (_bowing quietly_).

We have a majority of twenty votes, Baron. Here are the final returns.

(_Hands telegram to_ Richard.)

Richard.

Official?

Holtzmann.

Virtually. As your co-worker, Baron, allow me to offer my congratulations. (Richard _turns away without speaking_.)

Beata.

You see how overcome he is, dear Herr Holtzmann. Thank you with all my heart. (_Gives him her hand_.)

Holtzmann (_turning to leave the room_).

Good-afternoon, Countess.

Richard.

Holtzmann! (Holtzmann _pauses_.) You've fought a good fight.

Holtzmann.

Oh, as to that----

Richard.

Thank you. (_Shakes his hand_.)

Holtzmann.

Don't mention it. I did my duty, that's all. (_Bows and goes out_.)

Beata.

Richard! Isn't the struggle over yet?

Richard.

Beata--you have made me believe--in spite of myself--that--even now--I may be of use to the cause. I shall stick to my work, and try not to think.

Beata.

It may not be as hard as you imagine.

Richard.

Perhaps not. But when the blow falls--if it falls----

Beata.

We'll laugh----

Richard.

And meanwhile----

Beata.

We'll live! (_They clasp each other's hands_.)

Curtain.

ACT II