[_With a glass to_ George, _who has gone back and is looking out_.] Don't you want some, George? George. [_Caressing her, with a shy glance at_ Marie.] Why, yes, little one, thank you! Look, how bright and beautiful the moon shines to-night! Everything wrapped as in silvery spider web! How beautiful! Marie. [_Oppressed_.] They will soon set off the bonfires. Brauer. See, see--at last you have spoken; I feared you had lost your tongue. Come here, my child. Get your glasses, all of you---- Your health! The Pastor shall give us a toast; yes, yes, Pastor!--a genuine pagan toast, well suited to this night! Now, tell me, my child, are you obliged to go to the city again to-night? Marie. Yes, papa dear. Brauer. But if I will not allow it? Marie. You gave your permission quite two weeks ago, papa dear! Brauer. But not to go in the middle of the night! Marie. I must go, papa. The men are to be there at seven in the morning, and if I am not there to give instructions the house will never be finished in time. Mrs. Brauer. Never mind, Henry, there is no help for it. Brauer. But look at her! Marie. Why, papa, there is nothing the matter with me. I am well and merry---- Brauer. You are merry, eh? Let me hear you laugh! Marie. [_Tries to laugh_.] Ha, ha, ha----! Brauer. [_Imitating her_.] Yes, yes--ha, ha, ha----! Mrs. Brauer. Come here, my child. [_Strokes her hair_.] Did you sleep well last night? Marie. Yes, mama. Brauer. But if this stranger should attack you again? Pastor. Pardon me, but what do I hear? Brauer. Oh, nothing of importance, Pastor. [_To_ Marie.] You will take the one o'clock train---- Marie. Yes, papa. Brauer. There is another--at four--t'will be daylight then---- Marie. But I would not reach the city in time. Brauer. Very well, you needn't go to bed, then. George can take you to the depot. Marie. [_Startled_.] George? George. [_Startled and simultaneously_.] What--I? Brauer. Certainly! Why not? Pastor. Pray do not think me obtrusive; but I am at your service. Brauer.