_Breakfast-room at the Brauer residence. The back wall is formed by
three glass doors, separated by marble pillars. Behind this, the
veranda is visible, and balustrade, hung with fine rug, and stairs,
leading into the garden. The glass doors have practical, solid wooden
shutters, with bars, fastening inside. Doors R. and L. Large table C.
with breakfast laid. Front, to the left, sofa, table and easy-chair. To
the right, sewing-machine, and basket filled with table-linen.
Old-fashioned photos and engravings on walls. Otherwise, well-to-do
family home._
_Time of day: Morning._
[Gertrude _busy at breakfast-table_.]
Brauer.
[_Enters with_ Paul, _from R_.] Confound it! Everything seems to go
wrong this morning!
[_Throws his cap on chair, angrily_.]
Gertrude.
[_Happily_.] Good-morning, papa!
Brauer.
Morning, my child. Such carelessness! You ought to be ashamed of
yourself. If this thing had happened earlier in the season, out on the
meadows--but at this time of the year--!!! Oh! Confound it all,
anyway!!!!! It is inexcusable!!!
Gertrude.
What is the matter, papa?
Brauer.
The black cow has been overfed. But of course, when Marie is not about
to look after everything, things go to rack and ruin. Well, man, what
excuse are you going to make?
Paul.
None, Mr. Brauer.
Brauer.
Now that's the most sensible thing you have said this morning. Here,
take a cigar and get to work; but mind! send for the veterinary surgeon
at once. Have you had breakfast?
Paul.
Yes, sir!
Brauer.
Then what the devil are you waiting for?
Paul.