OLD MAN. I have seen life; I know its Sodom apples—therefore I wish to shield you.
PEHR. But life is not as sour as you say, perhaps.
OLD MAN. What do you know about it?
PEHR. Oh, I can see things from my high place! Come here and I will show you.
OLD MAN. What can you show me that I do not already know?
PEHR. [Leads Old Man to the window.] Look! Do you see the great house on the square?
OLD MAN. Yes; but make haste! Before the clock strikes twelve, you must be in bed.
PEHR. Do you see the Christmas-tree, with its gold and silver?
OLD MAN. Only paper, boy!
PEHR. And the golden fruits of the tropics?