But you _have_ deserved it of us, and therefore we come to you.
COLONEL (_heartily_).
I thank you, sir, for your kind words. They are very comforting to me
just now. May I ask your name?
PIEPENBRINK.
My name is Piepenbrink.
COLONEL (_morely coldly, but not impolitely_).
Ah, indeed, that is your name! (_With dignity._) I thank you,
gentlemen, for the friendly sentiment you have expressed, whether it
be that you render the true opinion of the town, or speak according to
the desire of individuals. I thank you, and shall go on doing what I
think is right.
[_Bows, so does the deputation; exit latter_.]
This, then, is that Piepenbrink, the close friend of his friend! But
the man's words were sensible and his whole demeanor honorable; it
cannot possibly be all rascality. Who knows! They are clever
intriguers; send into my house newspaper articles, letters, and these
good-natured people, to make me soft-hearted; act in public as my
friends, to make me confide again in their falseness! Yes, that is it.
It is a preconcerted plan! They will find they have miscalculated!
_Enter_ CARL.
CARL.
Dr. Bolz!
COLONEL.
I am at home to no one any longer!
CARL.
So I told the gentleman; but he insisted on speaking to you, saying
that he came in on an affair of honor.
COLONEL.
What? But Oldendorf won't be so insane--show him in here!
_Enter_ BOLZ.
BOLZ (_with dignity_).
Colonel, I come to make you an announcement which the honor of a third
person necessitates.
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