[_With an effort_.] Wine--wine--there--in the bowl! [_He helps her--she drinks_.] Thank you! [_Stirred_.] No one has ever waited on me before! Pastor. I will carry you upon my hands Marie. Very well, Pastor; but no one must know before the wedding! Pastor. Perhaps on the wedding day--at the wedding feast? Papa might make the announcement; that would be such a fitting occasion! Marie. No, no! I will have to much to do then. Pastor. Then, when the happy pair have gone? 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 passes, 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 glass. '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.