George. Uncle, I beg of you, don't let us begin quarreling so early in the day. Brauer. [_Angry still_.] Very well, but what does it mean? George. It is simply a statement of my affairs. I am a free and independent man, and that is to show you that I am not only willing but also able to properly support my wife. Brauer. [_Still worked up_.] But I tell you---- Marie. [_Enters R_.] Oh--pardon me, papa--good-morning! Gertrude. [_Throws arms around her_.] Marie! Marie. [_Kisses her_.] My darling! [_She goes to_ Brauer _and kisses his hand_.] Brauer. You are back all right, I see! Here, here! [_Puts hand under her chin_.] Head thrown back, I say--why, what's the matter? anything gone wrong with you, eh? Marie. [_Uncertain_.] N--no! Brauer. [_To his wife_.] Look at her--she is positively livid. Mrs. Brauer. What is the matter, my child? Marie. Mama, dear, I sat up all night in the train and have had no sleep at all. Brauer. And how much longer will it take you----? Marie. Only one more trip to town,--but pardon me, papa, the new assistant pastor is at the gate and---- Brauer. Who? Marie. The new assistant pastor. [Gertrude _snickers_.] Brauer. [_To_ Gertrude.] What are you laughing at? Gertrude. [_Pulling at_ Marie's _skirt and can hardly keep from bursting out laughing_.] I--I--oh, I am not laughing. Brauer. [_To_ Marie.] But what does he want? Marie. He says he does not wish to disturb the ladies so early in the morning, and asks you to please come out---- Brauer. Nonsense! tell him to come in. Marie. Yes, papa. George. Good-morning, Marie. Marie. Good-morning, George. [_Exit_.] Brauer. Gertrude, come here. Now remember, my dear, such conduct is not at all becoming to a full-grown young lady. Gertrude. My dear, sweet papa, I am so ashamed of myself--I--I'll never do it again--never. But it's so funny--ha, ha, ha! he is gone on Marie---- Mrs. Brauer. My dear, remember you are now a bride and it would be far more proper to say----