but it won't be long before something will be said--maybe
publicly. And it will break her heart.''

``I can't discuss her with you,'' said Mr. Feuerstein.
``Doubtless you mean well. I'm obliged to you for coming. I'll
see.'' He rose.

``Is that all?'' said Otto.

``What more can I say?''

``But what are you going to DO?''

``I don't see how I can prevent a lot of ignorant people from
gossiping.''

``Then you're not going straight down there? You're not going to
do what a man'd do if he had the decency of a dog?''

``You are insulting! But because I believe you mean well, I
shall tell you that it is impossible for me to go for several
days at least. As soon as I honorably can, I shall come and the
scandal will vanish like smoke.''

Otto let him go. ``I mustn't thrash him, and I can't compel him
to be a man.'' He returned to the German Theater; he must learn
all he could about this Feuerstein.

``Did you see him?'' asked the ticket-seller.