Marie.
[_Glancing around_.] Don't--don't----
Mrs. Brauer.
[_Enters, followed by_ Gertrude.] Hasn't the carriage arrived yet,
children? And where is papa? It is time to go.
Marie.
He is coming now, I believe.
Brauer.
[_Enters_.] So there, I am ready to go! But, that is, you wanted to
speak to me first?
George.
[_With a glance at_ Marie.] It is all settled now, thank you.
Brauer.
Then come, wife, my coat, quick!
[_She helps him with frocks after he has divested himself of
jacket_.]
Gertrude.
[_Aside to_ Marie.] Did you ask him?
Marie.
[_Nods_.]
Gertrude.
And what did he say?
Marie.
It was all nonsense, my pet. He loves you and only you. He never has
loved any one else--he says--and he will be very happy--so he says----
Gertrude.
[_Embraces him joyfully_.] My darling George----
Brauer.
Come, come, my child--time enough for that after the ceremony. Come!
[_All follow him to the door. When_ George _reaches door he turns,
and as he takes one parting glance at_ Marie, Brauer _pushes
him off_. Marie _stands motionless, looking after them,
handkerchief in mouth, nervously forcing it between her
teeth_.]
[_Curtain_.]