LOUISE. But how about the child?
MASTER. I have surrendered my rights—and besides—frankly speaking—I don't care for them—not at all now, when she has been here and spoiled the images harboured in my memory. She has wiped out all the beauty that I had cherished, and now there is nothing left.
LOUISE. But that's to be set free!
MASTER. Look, how empty the place seems in there—as if everybody had moved out; and up there—as if there had been a fire.
LOUISE. Who is coming there?
AGNES enters, excited and frightened, but trying hard to control herself; she makes for the gateway, where the confectioner is seated on his chair.
LOUISE [To the MASTER] There is Agnes? What can this mean?
MASTER. Agnes? Then things are getting straightened out.
STARCK. [With perfect calm] Good evening, girl! Where have you been?
AGNES. I have been for a walk.