Alfred. When it came to the point, I could not do anything else—I had to come here.
Christensen. I quite agree with you.
Riis. Yes, it was only the natural thing to do. (ALFRED comes forward and bows respectfully to SVAVA. She bows slightly, but without looking at him. He steps back again.)
Nordan. Good morning, my boy!
Alfred. Perhaps I have come at an inconvenient moment.
Riis. Not a bit of it! Quite the contrary!
Alfred. At the same time, it seems evident to me that my presence is not welcome to Miss Riis. (No one answers him.)
Mrs. Christensen. But it is a family council we are holding—isn't it, my dear girl?
Riis. I assure you, you are welcome! And we are all particularly anxious to hear what you have to say!
Christensen. That is so.