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.