Brauer.
[_Enters with_ George _and_ Gertrude.] Thank goodness, that's over. Let
me see: first it was the old soldiers, then the Turners, and now
the Singing Society---- But do you know, I am so sick of all this
wine--give me a brandy.
Gertrude.
[_Gets drink from sideboard_.] Yes, papa!
Brauer.
[_To_ George.] And what's the matter with you?
George.
[_With a sigh_.] Nothing!
Brauer.
[_Imitating him_.] Nothing!!! I can't quite make you out---- Here, have
a drink?
George.
No, thank you!
Brauer.
Well, then, don't! Your health, my pet!
Gertrude.
Drink hearty, papa!
Brauer.
[_Rises_.] The carriage will arrive here sharply at ten! Understand?
George.
Yes!
Brauer.
And your friend from the city--we will find him at the station?
George.
Yes; he arrives quarter to ten.
Brauer.
For we must have two witnesses.--Do you know what I would like?
[_Tapping him on breast_.] I would like to be able to look in there.
Gertrude.
Oh, let him alone, papa! He is now my George. If I am satisfied with
him----
Brauer.
You are right! He who gets my child can laugh--but he also shall laugh.
Understand? [_Exit R_.]
Gertrude.
Never mind him, George dear. You need not laugh if you don't want to.
Not on my account. [_Bells_.] Do you hear, George? The church bells,
ringing softly, singing, like human voices!!!! That is for you and me!!
George.
Why for us?
Gertrude.
It is the old pastor's desire; half an hour this morning, and then
again this afternoon, when we exchange rings. Do you know, George, mama
says a bride's dream the night before her wedding is surely an omen.
Do you believe that?
George.
[_Preoccupied_.] Yes.
Gertrude.
I dreamed last night of a large, yellow wheat-field, in which a poor
little rabbit had hidden itself; and high above, in the air, I saw a
large hawk. Then it appeared to me that I was the little rabbit, and in
fear and dread I called out "George! George!" when suddenly it shot
down upon me!--just think----
George.
And then?
Gertrude.
Then I awoke. The cold perspiration stood thickly upon my brow---- Oh,
George dear, you will protect me? You won't let any one hurt me, will
you? For I am only a poor little rabbit, after all----
George.
[_Staring before him_.] My God!
Gertrude.
George, I wanted to ask you something.
George.
Well?
Gertrude.
You don't love some one else, do you?
George.
[_Disturbed_.] But, my child----
Gertrude.
Well, you know that if a bride cannot laugh on her wedding day, she
loves another----
George.