BERTHA [Listening without]. No, you must go now.
MRS. HALL. Just a moment. What was I going to say?—Well, it doesn't matter.
[Goes out. Bertha is alone for a moment, when she hears Axel coming. She hides the green letter in her pocket.]
BERTHA. Back already? Well, did you meet her—him?
AXEL. I didn't meet him, but her, which was much better. I congratulate you, Bertha. Your picture is already accepted!
BERTHA. Oh, no! What are you saying? And yours?
AXEL. It isn't decided yet—but it will surely go through, too.
BERTHA. Are you sure of that?
AXEL. Of course—
BERTHA. Oh, I'm accepted! Good, how good! But why don't you congratulate me?