Regina (after a short silence). And what was it you wanted me to
come to town for?

Engstrand. Need you ask why a father wants his only child? Ain't
I a poor lonely widower?

Regina. Oh, don't come to me with that tale. Why do you want me to
go?

Engstrand. Well, I must tell you I am thinking of taking up a new
line now.

Regina (whistles). You have tried that so often--but it has
always proved a fool's errand.

Engstrand. Ah, but this time you will just see, Regina! Strike me
dead if--

Regina (stamping her foot). Stop swearing!

Engstrand. Sh! Sh!--you're quite right, my girl, quite right!
What I wanted to say was only this, that I have put by a tidy
penny out of what I have made by working at this new Orphanage up
here.

Regina. Have you? All the better for you.

Engstrand. What is there for a man to spend his money on, out
here in the country?