No! Before the ceremony, if you please.

Brauer.

[_Startled_.] Wha--oh, I see. I suppose now you will demand more than I am willing to give? Marie, leave us [Paul _enters_.] Well, what now?

Paul.

[_Gives him a sign_.]

Brauer.

There, look at him! Well, have you lost your tongue, man? Why don't you speak?

Paul.

No, no, Mr. Brauer, I have something to say to you--alone.

Brauer.

Then why don't you come nearer?

Paul.

[_Whispering_.] We have just now caught the old woman.

Brauer.

[_With a glance at_ Marie.] What? Marie, you may remain and chat with George for awhile; he is a very interesting young man. [_Softly, to_ Paul.] Where?

Paul.

Down in the cellar; just as I wanted to put the beer on the ice, I found her there in a dark corner, loaded down with plunder!

Brauer.

Is she there now?

Paul.

Yes, struggling like a demon.

Brauer.

Undoubtedly this offense will earn her a good long term in prison and we will be rid of her for a long time! But how to get her out of the house?

Paul.

Leave that to me Mr. Brauer; I know a way to keep her quiet.

Brauer.

Yes, yes, and in the meantime I will make out the papers and we will hand her over to the Gendarme; that will be the best. Children, I will be busy for a moment! Wait here until I return.

George.

Don't forget, uncle!

Brauer.

No, no. I'll be back in a moment. Come, Mr. Paul!

[_Both exit_.]

George.

You are trembling----

Marie.

Am I?

George.

Marie dear, I am with you. No one shall harm you!

Marie.

Oh, it is not that.

George.

What, then?

Marie.

Oh, I don't know. It has suddenly come over me so---- [_Starts_.] Sh!

He's coming!

[_Noise. Scuffling of feet and smothered cries are heard_.]

George.

What is it?

Marie.

In G.o.d's name, be still!

Gypsy.