GERDA. He—has been a singer.
CONSUL. Has been—and what is he now? An adventurer?
GERDA. Yes!
CONSUL. Keeps a gambling-house?
GERDA. Yes!
CONSUL. And the child? Bait?
GERDA. Oh, don't say that!
CONSUL. It's horrible!
GERDA. You are too harsh about the whole thing.
CONSUL. Of course, filth must be handled gently—so very gently! But a just cause should be dragged in the dirt. Why did you defile his honour, and why did you lure me into becoming your accomplice? I was childish enough to trust your word, and I defended your unjust cause against his.