It"s about time, too! Why, its eleven o"clock! Come, let"s to bed.
Gertrude.
Good-night, papa!
Brauer.
[_Affectionately_.] Good-night, my pet!
Marie.
Good-night!
Brauer.
By the bye--when will you be back?
Marie.
To-morrow, about ten, papa!
Brauer.
Now be careful; no unnecessary exertions--understand? The day of the wedding will be hard enough on all of us.
Marie.
Yes, papa dear! [_Kisses him_.]
George.
[_Enters at this moment_.] We have still an hour and a quarter till train time. I will wait for you here, Marie.
Mrs. Brauer.
You might help each other pa.s.s away the time.
Gertrude.
I want to sit up, too.
Brauer.
Tut, tut, ray pet; you go to bed, you need the rest.
Gertrude.
[_Whiningly_.] Well then, good-night.
Marie.
[_In silent fear_.] I can"t stay here---- Mama, I want to ask you about something----
George.
Then you will come down in time for the train?
Marie.
Yes, in time for the train.
Mrs. Brauer.
Good-night, George.
George.
Good-night, auntie!
[_Exit_ Mrs. Brauer, Gertrude _and_ Marie.]
Brauer.
You know where my cigars are?
George.
Yes!
Brauer.
And if you need anything to keep you awake--I have left the key----
George.
[_In monosyllables_.] Thank you!
Brauer.
Well, what in----
George.
What"s the matter---- Oh, my dear uncle, if I have failed to pay you the necessary respect, I beg your pardon.
Brauer.
Respect? Oh, d.a.m.n you and your respect!