Regina. Well, what then?

Engstrand. Well, you see, I thought of putting the money into
something that would pay. I thought of some kind of an eating-
house for seafaring folk--

Regina. Heavens!

Engstrand. Oh, a high-class eating-house, of course--not a
pigsty for common sailors. Damn it, no; it would be a place
ships' captains and first mates would come to; really good sort
of people, you know.

Regina. And what should I--?

Engstrand. You would help there: But only to make show, you know.
You wouldn't find it hard work, I can promise you, my girl. You
should do exactly as you liked.

Regina. Oh, yes, quite so!

Engstrand. But we must have some women in the house; that is as
clear as daylight. Because in the evening we must make the place
a little attractive-- some singing and dancing, and that sort of
thing. Remember they are seafolk-- wayfarers on the waters of
life! (Coming nearer to her.) Now don't be a fool and stand in
your own way, Regina. What good are you going to do here? Will
this education, that your mistress has paid for, be of any use?
You are to look after the children in the new Home, I hear. Is