Sandstad: Good day, Mr. Bernick.

Bernick: Good day, good day, gentlemen. And remember, we have a
meeting this afternoon at five o'clock.

The Three Men: Yes--quite so--of course. (They go out to the
right.)

Bernick (who has read the telegram): This is thoroughly American!
Absolutely shocking!

Mrs.Bernick: Good gracious, Karsten, what is it?

Bernick: Look at this, Krap! Read it!

Krap (reading): "Do the least repairs possible. Send over 'Indian
Girl' as soon as she is ready to sail; good time of year; at a
pinch her cargo will keep her afloat." Well, I must say--

Rorlund: You see the state of things in these vaunted great
communities!

Bernick: You are quite right; not a moment's consideration for
human life, when it is a question of making a profit. (To KRAP:)
Can the "Indian Girl" go to sea in four--or five--days?

Krap: Yes, if Mr. Vigeland will agree to our stopping work on the
"Palm Tree" meanwhile.

Bernick: Hm--he won't. Well, be so good as to look through the