[Marie _takes it off and gives it to her_.]
Thank you--thank you!!! [_Kisses_ Marie's _sleeve and dress, but when she would kiss her hand_, Marie _withdraws it quickly_.]
All right, all right! You are fine lady. [_Looks about_.] Is the old man home, eh?
That is good, that is good! He is an old devil--is the old man! All Prussians are devils. But he have fine house, he have! Like a prince!!! [_Rubs her hand over table cover_.] Ah, nice shawl that would make---- [_Sees linen_.] And what fine linen--[_Motions to_ Marie.] Come here!
[_Pointing with thumb_.] Give me an drink--just an little drink! [_Indicates with finger and thumb_.]
[_While_ Marie _turns to sideboard, she quickly takes two or three pieces of linen and with left hand holds them hidden under her apron_.]
[_After taking drink from Marie_.] Thanks, mine daughter, thanks! [_After drinking, rubs her stomach_.] Ah, that's good, that's good!--Give me another! [Marie _fills another glass for her--she drinks it_.] Thank you, thank you!! But now I must be going!
[_In her anxiety to get out she drops one piece, while going to the door_.]
[_Horrified_.] Mo--mo--what were you trying to do?
[_Pretending surprise_.] My, my--just see! I found this out on the field. [_Picks it up and puts it under her arm_.]
[_Doing so_.] All right, all right--my--my--my----
[_Goes quickly to door and calls_.] George!
Give me some money! [_He gives her a gold piece_.] [Marie _to her mother_.] Here, here is money; now give me the linen----
[_Takes the money as she gives up the linen, greedily_.] A ducat! A whole ducat! A golden ducat! Mine daughter, thank you!
[_Goes anxiously to the door_.] Alright, alright!!!
[_Throws a kiss to_ Marie, _and quick exit_.]
[_Quickly takes key from board_.] George, take this key and lock the garden gate after her, so she does not return.
[George _exits_. Marie _looks after them, then slowly returns to the table, leans against same, and stares vacantly. Knock is heard at door L_.]
[_Trying the door from the outside_.] The door is locked!
[_Enters with dishes_.] It is time to lay the table for supper--will you help me, please? Why, what's the matter? You are not listening to me----
Never mind, Lena, I will set the table myself!