An unusually strong flash of heat-lightning illumines the figures of the CONSUL and GERDA.
The MASTER rises with an expression of horror on his face. GERDA takes refuge behind the corner of the house.
MASTER. Carl Frederick! [Coming to the window] Are you alone? I thought—Are you really alone?
CONSUL. As you see.
MASTER. The air is so sultry, and the flowers give me a headache—I am just going to finish the newspaper.
[He resumes his former position.
CONSUL. Now let us get at your affairs. Do you want me to go with you?
GERDA. Perhaps! But it will be a hard struggle.
CONSUL. But the child must be saved. And I am a lawyer.
GERDA. Well, for the child's sake, then! Come with me!
[They go out together.