Frederica, Gernau.

Fred. Tell me immediately, dear Gernau, what is the matter between you and my brother?

Gern. He is not a good man, Frederica.

Fred. Shall I go to him, Gernau?

Gern. Do not embitter my life, good soul; I have trouble enough besides. Your brother will drive me away.

Fred. What?

Gern. He will throw me out of my office.

Fred. Why?

Gern. To put a more accommodating man in my place.

Fred. He does not wish to do that certainly, nor could he even effect it.