STROEBEL. What matter?

BEERMANN. On Saturday night a lady was arrested. A Madam de
Hauteville, and certain papers were taken from her. Have you those
papers here?

STROEBEL. What business is that of yours?

BEERMANN. My name is Beermann; Fritz Beermann, the banker. I am
the Chairman of the Society for the Suppression of Vice.

STROEBEL [very politely]. Oh, indeed! Pardon me! I didn't recall
your name immediately, but I was expecting you.

BEERMANN [startled]. You--were expecting--me?

STROEBEL. The Commissioner said that you would undoubtedly call on
us.

BEERMANN. He said that I undoubtedly would call? But he never
mentioned a word to me about that, and I saw him just a moment
ago. Perhaps after all it will be better if I go down to see him
again?

STROEBEL. That is not necessary. I have full charge of the matter.

BEERMANN. Oh, yes, quite right; you have charge of the matter. And
you have those writings here too?

STROEBEL. The diary? [He indicates the desk.] Here it is.