We haven't even started with your case. The pastor is interested in something of far greater importance.
[_With meaning and moved_.] You must not believe that, Mr. von Harten; but there are lives whose fates are surrounded by so much mystery---- [_with a glance at_ Marie, _who enters L. with package of linen_.]
[_Who follows his glance_.] Yes, yes, you are right.
If you will allow me, I will call again about the sermon.
[_Giving him her hand_.] Pastor, you know you are always welcome in this house.
Give my regards to our good old pastor. Towards evening we will see him, as usual.
Oh, I had almost forgotten! He desires me to ask you kindly, should you again favor him with eggnog, to please add a little more sugar, for the last was a trifle tart.
Do not say that, madame; for when the time has come when all our wishes and hopes and desires are concentrated upon a small quantity of sweets, our sufferings are near the end. And now, adieu. Miss Marie, adieu.
Don't be afraid dear, no one will scold you.
Oh mama, I'm so ashamed of myself. When he arrived he seemed so jolly--and now--I am sure he is offended.
He was not offended, dear, only a little grave.
At any rate, what do you think of him, Marie?
[_Glancing up from her work, sorting linen_.] Of whom, mama dear?
Oh mama, my mind is so occupied, I hadn't given him a thought.
[_Aside to_ George.] Now you tell her, George.
Gertrude, how about our manzanillo-tree--any blossoms this morning?
You don't mean to say you haven't looked after that beloved tree of yours this morning?
Marie, both Gertrude and myself insist, that you cease this endless drudgery for our sakes; it isn't right.
[Marie, _humming, pays no heed--looks into space_.]
Oh yes, last night at the station I heard a strange song--some one in a fourth-class coach was singing. Listen. [_Sings_.]
"Zwirio czenay, zwirio tenay--kam'mano bernyczo--Rid wid wil dai dai--Ne'r mano bernyczo."
And the Lithuanian text--you memorized it just from hearing it?
Oh, it means nothing, really--[_makes one or two attempts_.]--"here"--no!
"I look here and I look there--where may be my lover? Rid wid will dai dai--Nowhere is my lover!"
[_Enters during this, unseen by her, puts arms around her. She shrieks_.] There, there--[_caressing her_.] Patience, my darling, some day you will have one--perhaps very soon. Why, what's the matter, dear?