Mrs. Brauer. It was on her confirmation day, just as the girls left the church in a body, when we heard a cry. What had happened? Why, that woman had been lying in wait for the procession; when suddenly she appeared, seized her child, and kneeling before her in the road, passionately covered her hands and feet with kisses. Pastor. [_Shuddering_.] Horrible!!!!!! Mrs. Brauer. I tore the child from her arms, of course, and carried her into the house. We had to make some kind of an explanation; a drunken vagabond, I told her! Did she believe it?--H'm?--Then she fell ill---- Pastor. And how is it now? Brauer. [_Humorously_.] Why, Pastor, you seem very much interested. George. [_Enters_. Gertrude _follows him in_.] I presume I am pretty well done by this time. Brauer. We haven't even started with your case. The pastor is interested in something of far greater importance. Pastor. [_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_.] George. [_Who follows his glance_.] Yes, yes, you are right. Pastor. If you will allow me, I will call again about the sermon. Mrs. Brauer. [_Giving him her hand_.] Pastor, you know you are always welcome in this house. Brauer. Give my regards to our good old pastor. Towards evening we will see him, as usual. Pastor. 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. Mrs. Brauer. Why, of course, the poor old soul. Pastor. 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. Marie. [_Preoccupied_.] Adieu. [Pastor _exits, accompanied by_ Brauer.] [Gertrude _enters_.] Mrs. Brauer. Don't be afraid dear, no one will scold you. Gertrude. Oh mama, I'm so ashamed of myself. When he arrived he seemed so jolly--and now--I am sure he is offended. George. He was not offended, dear, only a little grave. Mrs. Brauer. At any rate, what do you think of him, Marie?