George.
Uncle----
Brauer.
See here, perhaps I did wrong?
George.
You--wrong? How?
Brauer.
Have you forgotten what pa.s.sed between us yesterday?
George.
My dear uncle, that seems to me so far, far away!
Brauer.
It strikes me you are going at a pretty fast gait!
George.
At any rate, uncle, do not worry about it. It will all come out right in the end. [_As he is listening towards the door, gives a sudden start_.]
Brauer.
What"s the matter?
George.
I thought I heard some one----
Brauer.
Some one of the family perhaps, upstairs. Very well, then all is well, my boy! Good-night, my son.
George.
Good-night, uncle!
[Brauer _exits, shaking his head_.]
George.
[_Sits at table--tries to read--listens, goes to door C.--calls out softly into the garden_.] Who is there? [_Still softer_.] Is that you, Marie?
Gertrude.
[_Whining outside_.] It"s only me!
George.
[_Surprised_.] Gertrude, what do you want?
Gertrude.
[Gertrude _enters in nightgown and flowing hair_.] I am so uneasy, George dear; I just wanted to look at you once more before going to sleep.
George.
But, little one, if papa should see you like this---- Quick, go back to your room.
Gertrude.
I cannot, my heart is so heavy.
George.
How so, dear?
Gertrude.
George, I have been thinking; I really am not good enough to be your wife.
George.
Wha--what nonsense----
Gertrude.
I am too silly--oh, yes; I never know what to say to you! I am so stupid.
George.
Why, my child--darling--pet----
Gertrude.
A while ago, out in the garden, and the moon shining so brightly, you walked by my side in deep silence----
George.
Why, mama was with us----
Gertrude.