He stooped to recover his hat, not so much to regain it but to steal time to conjure up some way out.
"Gretchen, here under the Virgin I swear to you that I love you as a man loves but once in his life.

If I were rich, I would gladly fling these riches to the wind for your sake.

If I were a king, I'd barter my crown for a smile and a kiss.

I have done no wrong; I have committed no crime.
But you must have proof; so be it.

We will go together to the police-bureau and settle this doubt once and for all." "When ?" Gretchen's heart was growing warm again.
"Now, to-night, while they are hunting for me." "Forgive me!" brokenly.
"Come!" "No, Leopold, this test is not necessary." "I insist.