support.

Dina: You mustn't speak now!

Mrs. Bernick: What is it?

Rorlund: It is now that I must speak, Dina, although your conduct
yesterday and today has made it ten times more difficult for me.
But all other considerations must give way to the necessity for
saving you. You remember that I gave you my word; you remember
what you promised you would answer when I judged that the right
time had come. Now I dare not hesitate any longer, and therefore-
-. (Turns to JOHAN.) This young girl, whom you are persecuting,
is my betrothed.

Mrs. Bernick: What?

Bernick: Dina!

Johan: She? Your--?

Martha: No, no, Dina!

Lona: It is a lie!

Johan: Dina--is this man speaking the truth?

Dina (after a short pause): Yes.

Rorlund: I hope this has rendered all your arts of seduction