The Lady.
Our friend had a--what shall I say--a susceptible heart. We knew that,
who knew him so well. This was not the first time he had--been
interested in a woman. And that was why I arranged to have him seen in
our house as little as possible--lately, not at all.
v. Wolters.
That fact did not escape notice, Countess. And as Baron Renoir was
frequently seen with you--instead of----
The Lady (_somewhat excited_).
Don't mention that name, Herr von Wolters! I can't stand it! What could
have possessed that man Renoir--? But do tell me the rest. I've heard
only the merest details. They've only told me what they thought
necessary.
v. Wolters.
No one knows what actually occurred between the two men. He begged me
to ask no questions. You know, he was so reserved of late. It may
be that certain expressions which passed between them a few days
ago--after they had been drinking--had something to do with it--no one
knows. Perhaps there was some insult which was given in private--and
which neither of them would make public. The assurance that the injury,
whatever it may have been, was irreparable, must satisfy us.
The Lady.
Oh, how I hate that man Renoir!--quite apart from the trouble which he
has gotten me into! My husband warned me against him long ago. "That
scoundrel will compromise you some day," he said, "and then I'll have
to fight a duel with him." Instead--this! Oh, you poor, poor darling!
And now, when all was so quiet and peaceful between us!
v. Wolters.
My dear Countess, if you think that the change which came over him in
the last few months betokened peace and quiet----
The Lady (_nervously_).
I don't know anything about that! It wasn't my fault! Was I to blame if
he insisted on having notions? Tell me one thing, Herr von Wolters, did
he die easily?
v. Wolters.
No one dies easily, Countess.
The Lady.
Was he still living when they reached the house?
v. Wolters.
No, he died on the field.
The Lady.
Do you know my first name, Herr von Wolters?
v. Wolters.
Certainly.
The Lady (_hesitating_).
Did he--by any chance--speak--that name?
v. Wolters.
That would have betrayed his secret, Countess.
The Lady.