I am very
glad indeed that a day of reckoning has come. There are a few disturbers
of the peace here whom I have long had my eye on.
DREISSIGER
Yes, one or two raw lads, lazy vagabonds, that shirk every kind of work,
and lead a life of low dissipation, hanging about the public-houses until
they've sent their last half-penny down their throats. But I'm determined
to put a stop to the trade of these professional blackguards once and for
all. It's in the public interest to do so, not only my private interest.
SUPERINTENDENT
Of course it is! Most undoubtedly, Mr. Dreissiger! No one can possibly
blame you. And everything that lies in my power....
DREISSIGER
The cat-o'-nine tails is what should be taken to the beggarly pack.
SUPERINTENDENT
You're right, quite right. We must institute an example.
_KUTSCHE, the policeman, enters and salutes. The door is open, and
the sound of heavy steps stumbling up the stair is heard._
KUTSCHE
I have to inform you, sir, that we have arrested a man.
DREISSIGER
[_To SUPERINTENDENT._] Do you wish to see the fellow?
SUPERINTENDENT
Certainly, most certainly. We must begin by having a look at him at close
quarters.
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