But then each one of us has a different conception of happiness.

To one it is knowledge, to another the fulfilling of duty, to lower natures wealth and worldly honors.
Therefore, it is possible to imagine that some one may find happiness in pursuing a profession." "Oh, no, my dear Herr Eynhardt, those are the mistaken views of gloomy and limited natures who are incapable of recognizing the true object of life.

There are no two ideals of happiness--there is but one." "And that is ?" "To wish for something very, very much--and get it." "Even if it is something foolish ?" "Even then." "And even if one should lose if afterward ?" She gazed for a while into the distance in silence and then said firmly--"Yes, even then." And after a pause she added--"You have, at least, had a moment of absolute happiness--when you found your wish fulfilled.

And what more do you want?
One only lives to experience such moments." "Unfortunately, your theory of happiness does not fit every case.

Where is the happiness to come from for one who has no wishes at all, or who wishes for something unattainable--perfect understanding, for instance ?" "A human being without a wish--is there such a thing ?" "Yes, Madame la Comtesse, there is." "You perhaps ?" she asked quickly.
"Perhaps," Wilhelm returned.
"Then you are not in love ?" she said, and let her brilliant eyes rest upon his melancholy face.
He shook his head gently without looking at her, as if ashamed of the want of gallantry in such a confession.
"But at least you were once ?" she persisted eagerly.
"Have I ever really been in love?
Perhaps--Or no, I do not know myself." "Thankless creature! You hesitate--you are not sure! How shameful of you to deny the gods you have once worshiped! But that is the way with you men.