us in defence of all that has hitherto been held sacred in our
community. (Turning to REBECCA.) What do you say, Miss West?

Rebecca (with a quiet little laugh). my dear Mr. Kroll--it all
sounds so absurdly ludicrous to me.

Kroll. What! Ludicrous?

Rebecca. Yes, because it is time you were told plainly--

Rosmer (hurriedly). No, no--don't! Not now!

Kroll (looking from one to the other). But, my dear friends, what
on earth--? (Breaks off, as MRS. HELSETH comes in, by the door on
the right.) Ahem!

Mrs. Helseth. There is a man at the kitchen door, sir. He says he
wants to see you.

Rosmer (in a relieved voice). Is there? Well, ask him to come in.

Mrs. Helseth. Shall I show him in here, sir?

Rosmer. Certainly.

Mrs. Helseth. But he doesn't look the sort of man one ought to
allow in here.

Rebecca. What does he look like, Mrs. Helseth?