Commissioner [who has been pacing the room, turns suddenly.] Public decency?  Very well, very well. ... [Short pause.] We occupy a most peculiar position Do we not, Herr Stroebel? [Stroebel bows.] We know fully the existing difference between official ... and let me say ... personal sensitiveness, do we not? [Stroebel bows in accord.] I mention this merely because you spoke of public decency.  There is a decency about which you and I privately might have most interesting discussions.  As far as I am concerned, such decency can be without limits.  But there is another—­the public decency—­which it is our business to police.  This has its very precise limits.  For example, a scandal.  Scandal of any description.  Am I right, Herr Assessor?

Stroebel [clicks his heels together].  Certainly, Commissioner.

Commissioner.  That brings me to another matter.  For the past few weeks, there has been in the city, a so-called Society for the Suppression of Vice.  Have you any sympathy with these people?

Stroebel.  I know of their aims ...

Commissioner.  Their aims do not interest me a bit.  I mean, do you personally cooperate with them?

Stroebel.  Not ... yet.

Commissioner.  Not yet? ...  Hem! ...  This Society is likely to interest itself in this case.  If someone comes to see me, Herr Stroebel, I will refer him to you. [Stroebel bows.] Kindly bear this one thing in mind.  These men have political ambition, and are playing to the press.  On the whole the thing shows conservative tendencies.

Stroebel.  Certainly, Commissioner.

Commissioner.  Welcome them with open arms.  Agree gratefully to every suggestion for the betterment of the people, et cetera.  Listen with respectful appreciation but do nothing further.

Stroebel [uncertain].  Nothing further? ...

Commissioner.  No ... nothing further.

Stroebel.  Yes, Commissioner.

Commissioner.  These people must remain assured that they wield a great influence.  As a matter of fact, they have none at all and it’s a good thing they haven’t.

Stroebel.  So, I may ...

Commissioner. ...  Do everything you can be responsible for.  As a matter of principle, I do not like to give orders.  You will submit that report then [consulting his watch] at ten to-morrow?  Good morning! [Goes toward the door left, remains standing a moment, then turns around.] You have been rather zealous in your work, I must say. [Stroebel bows slightly.] To arrest a woman on the strength of an anonymous letter shows excessive zeal. [Stroebel bows slightly.] I like to see my men energetic but [clears his throat] bear in mind what I just said.  Careful of a scandal!  Good morning! [Exit.]

(Stroebel sits down and stares at ceiling.  He swings his chair around, then whistles.  Reisacher comes in through middle door and seats himself at his desk.  He coughs.)