Svava. You believe not? I asked because I thought you wanted our Society to help you. This really is all very distressful to me.
Hoff. I thought it would be—I thought as much. Besides, I am not really sure if I—. You cannot understand this, then?
Svava. No, I cannot.
Hoff. No, you cannot.-I have heard so much good spoken of you for many years. My wife used to sing your praises, too.
Svava. Did she know me?
Hoff. She was Maren Tang—who used to be companion to—
Svava.—to Mrs. Christensen, my future mother-in-law? Was it she? She was such a well-bred, quiet woman. Are you sure you are not mistaken? One or two notes, unsigned and undated—what?
Hoff. Did you not recognise the handwriting?
Svava. I? No. Besides, isn't it a disguised hand?
Hoff. Yes, but not much disguised.