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 God's name, be still! Gypsy. [_Calling for help_.] Mine daughter! Mine Mamie! My Mamie!! Marie. Hear? Hear? _My mother_! They are taking her away--to prison! Sh! Be still! No, no; don't open the door! Be quiet! Be quiet! Gypsy. [_Not as loud as before_.] Oh, mine daughter! My Mamie--my Mamie----! [_Dying out_.] George.