The former
holds the door open for the Baron. After they have come in, he
shuts the door.]
COMMISSIONER [to the Baron]. If you please, Herr Baron. ... [To
Beermann]. Ah ... here is our President of the Society for the
Suppression of Vice. [Beermann bows slightly--Commissioner
continuing contemptuously.] Well, have you accomplished your
mission? [Beermann nods.] Are you satisfied with this arrest or
would you like to have us do more? [Angrily.] Once for all, Sir, I
forbid you to meddle with the affairs of this office. You can
preach your principles wherever else you like, but here I will
stand for no interference. [Beermann timidly creeps along the
wall, and bows himself out.] [Commissioner to Baron Schmettau.]
Whenever the police bungle anything, look for reformers.
SCHMETTAU. [with a glance at Stroebel]. Will you introduce me?
COMMISSIONER. Assessor Stroebel,--Freiherr von Schmettau, Adjutant
to his Highness, Prince Emil. [Stroebel clicks his heels together
and bows deeply. Schmettau thanks him curtly.]
COMMISSIONER [sharply]. Herr Assessor, I have asked Herr Baron
Schmettau to come with me in order that in his presence I might
correct a pitiable lack of tact, which to my regret, and contrary
to all my intentions, was perpetrated by Lieutenant
Schmuttermaier.
SCHMETTAU. It was abominable.
COMMISSIONER. What orders did that man have?
STROEBEL [nervously].
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