me for the present. (In a low voice, grasping his hand.) Thanks,
Johan, thanks! And rest assured that anything I can do for you--
Well, of course you understand. Come along, Krap. (They go into
BERNICK'S room.)

Johan (looking after them for a moment): Hm!-- (Turns to go down
to the garden. At the same moment MARTHA comes in from the right,
with a little basket over her arm.) Martha!

Martha: Ah, Johan--is it you?

Johan: Out so early?

Martha: Yes. Wait a moment; the others are just coming. (Moves
towards the door on the left.)

Johan: Martha, are you always in such a hurry?

Martha: I?

Johan: Yesterday you seemed to avoid me, so that I never managed
to have a word with you--we two old playfellows.

Martha: Ah, Johan; that is many, many years ago.

Johan: Good Lord--why, it is only fifteen years ago, no more and
no less. Do you think I have changed so much?

Martha: You? Oh yes, you have changed too, although--