_Without pausing, she sets the lamp on the table down right--opposite the
group of characters. She turns up the wick and _PETER GRIMM _is seen
standing in the room--half in shadow. He is as he was in life. The clothes
he wears appear to be those he wore about his house in the first act. He
carries his hat in his hand. He has the same kind smile, the same
deferential manner, but his face is more spiritual and years younger. The
lamp, which _CATHERINE_ has placed on the table, brightens the room._

PETER. [_Whose eyes never leave_ CATHERINE.] Yes ... I called you.... I've
come back.

FREDERIK. [_To_ CATHERINE.] No.

PETER. Don't be frightened, Katie. It's the most natural thing in the
world. You wanted me and I came.

FREDERIK. Why? What made you think someone called you?

CATHERINE. I'm so accustomed to hear Uncle Peter's voice in this room,
that sometimes I forget he's not here ... I can't get over it! I was
almost sure I heard him speak ... but, of course, as soon as I came in--I
remembered.... But some one must have called me.

FREDERIK. No.

PETER _stands looking at them, perplexed; not being able to comprehend as
yet that he is not seen._

CATHERINE. Isn't it curious ... to hear your name and turn and ...
[_Unconsciously, she looks in_ PETER'S _face._] no one there?