RITA. Disquieting?

ALLMERS. Yes; you must remember that I am responsible for Asta--for
her life's happiness.

RITA. Oh, come--responsible! Surely Asta has come to years of
discretion? I should say she was capable of choosing for herself.

ALLMERS. Yes, we must hope so, Rita.

RITA. For my part, I don't think at all ill of Borgheim.

ALLMERS. No, dear--no more do I--quite the contrary. But all the
same--

RITA. [Continuing.] And I should be very glad indeed if he and Asta
were to make a match of it.

ALLMERS. [Annoyed.] Oh, why should you be?

RITA. [With increasing excitement.] Why, for then she would have to
go far, far away with him! Anal she could never come out here to
us, as she does now.

ALLMERS. [Stares at her in astonishment.] What! Can you really wish
Asta to go away?

RITA. Yes, yes, Alfred!

ALLMERS. Why in all the world--?