Hagbart. As there is no help for it—well, I will tell you straight out, although it may be a shock to you—I am here to ask for your niece's hand.
Leonarda (taking up her gloves). If I were a man, so that there should be nothing "doubtful" about my reply, I would strike you across the face with my gloves.
Hagbart. But you are a woman, so you will not.
[Enter HANS.]
Hans. Here is Miss Aagot, ma'am.
Aagot (from without). Aunt!
Leonarda. Aagot!
[Enter AAGOT. HANS goes out.]
Aagot. Aunt!—That wretched Hans! I was signalling to him—I wanted to surprise you. (Throws herself into LEONARDA'S arms.)
Leonarda. Child, have you deceived me?