Marie.
[_With sudden, impulsive decision_.] Yes, when they have gone!
Pastor.
[_Takes her hand_.] Thank you. Miss Marie.
[_Voices are heard outside_.]
Marie.
Sh--[_Withdrawing her hand_.]
Gertrude.
[_Enters_.] Ah, here you are, Pastor; we have been looking for you everywhere!
Pastor.
I am coming now, Miss Gertrude.
Gertrude.
It"s too late, Pastor, they are all returning!
Pastor.
Impossible! Well, well, how the time pa.s.ses, and one hardly knows how!
[_Exit_ Pastor.]
Marie.
[_Embracing_ Gertrude.] Will you forgive me, darling?
Gertrude.
[_Timidly_.] I have nothing to forgive!
Marie.
Do not say that! I have done everything--everything--you must----
[_Enter all_.]
Brauer.
Well, my dear Pastor, time stands still for no one; so you had better stop excusing yourself and empty your gla.s.s. "Twill all come out right in the end.
Pastor.
I think I had better go now; for here every one is making fun of me.
Brauer.
Pastor, I need hardly tell you, that you are always welcome in this house.
Pastor.
I am sure of it, Mr. Brauer! If I did not think so, I would not take that matter so lightly----
Brauer.
[_Jokingly threatens him with finger_.] Pastor----
Pastor.
[_With a happy glance at_ Marie.] Good-night. [_Shakes hands with all_.]
Brauer.
Good-night!
Pastor.
Good-night, Miss Marie!
Marie.
[_Shaking his hand_.] Good-night, Pastor!
[George, _with a questioning glance, advances a step or two_.]
Brauer.
George, see the Pastor to the gate!
George.
[_As though awakening_.] Yes, uncle.
[_Both exit_.]
Mrs. Brauer.
Well, Henry, everything has quieted down!
Brauer.