(All go out except Hoffman and Nicklausse.)


NICKLAUSSE.

One word! I have two horses saddled. At the first dream
That Hoffman permits himself, I carry him off.


HOFFMAN.

And what dream ever could be born
By such realities?
Does one love a courtezan?


NICKLAUSSE.

Yet this Schlemil...


HOFFMAN.
I am not Schlemil.


NICKLAUSSE.

Take care, the devil is clever.

DAPERTUTTO (appears at back).