Brauer.
Tut, tut! something has gone wrong! I can see it--and now, I demand
that you tell me the truth.
Marie.
Well, then--yes!
Brauer.
What is it? Come, come, out with it.
Marie.
Some one attacked me.
Brauer.
Attacked you?
Marie.
Not far from here.
Brauer.
As you came from the station?
Marie.
Yes.
Brauer.
Well, I never--but everyone around here knows you and your character;
how did he look? was it a vagabond?
Marie.
[_Hesitatingly._] N--No. It was--a gentleman----
Brauer.
Did he lay hands on you, or even try to touch you?
Marie.
No.
Brauer.
But you say he attacked you?
Marie.
Attacked me--yes!
Brauer.
You mean he followed you?
Marie.
Yes.
Brauer.
How far?
Marie.
As far as the gate, which I opened quickly and then he disappeared.
Brauer.
[_To the others_.] Now, what do you say to that? [George _shrugs his
shoulders_.] There is something queer about it all. [_To_ Marie.] And
that is what upset you so?
Marie.
Oh, I am already much composed.
Brauer.
[_Raises her head_.] Yes--you look it.
Gertrude.
Oh, papa, don't torment her so.
Brauer.
Now, then, go and take a good nap.
Marie.
Not yet, papa dear, I can't. I must speak with George first. About the
large bookcase--I really don't know where to place it.
Brauer.
But you can do that later, can't you?
Marie.