Brauer.
So, so, you are too practical, eh? then what the devil possessed you to
leave this piece of paper on my desk? eh?
George.
Uncle, I beg of you, don't let us begin quarreling so early in the day.
Brauer.
[_Angry still_.] Very well, but what does it mean?
George.
It is simply a statement of my affairs. I am a free and independent
man, and that is to show you that I am not only willing but also able
to properly support my wife.
Brauer.
[_Still worked up_.] But I tell you----
Marie.
[_Enters R_.] Oh--pardon me, papa--good-morning!
Gertrude.
[_Throws arms around her_.] Marie!
Marie.
[_Kisses her_.] My darling!
[_She goes to_ Brauer _and kisses his hand_.]
Brauer.
You are back all right, I see! Here, here! [_Puts hand under her
chin_.] Head thrown back, I say--why, what's the matter? anything gone
wrong with you, eh?
Marie.
[_Uncertain_.] N--no!
Brauer.
[_To his wife_.] Look at her--she is positively livid.
Mrs. Brauer.
What is the matter, my child?
Marie.
Mama, dear, I sat up all night in the train and have had no sleep at
all.
Brauer.
And how much longer will it take you----?
Marie.
Only one more trip to town,--but pardon me, papa, the new assistant
pastor is at the gate and----
Brauer.
Who?
Marie.
The new assistant pastor.
[Gertrude _snickers_.]
Brauer.
[_To_ Gertrude.] What are you laughing at?
Gertrude.
[_Pulling at_ Marie's _skirt and can hardly keep from bursting out
laughing_.] I--I--oh, I am not laughing.
Brauer.
[_To_ Marie.] But what does he want?
Marie.
He says he does not wish to disturb the ladies so early in the morning,
and asks you to please come out----
Brauer.
Nonsense! tell him to come in.
Marie.
Yes, papa.
George.
Good-morning, Marie.
Marie.