Tjaelde (surprised). Coming here?
Sannaes. He is just coming up the steps! (Goes out by the further door on the right.)
Tjaelde. (calls after him in a whisper). Send up some wine and cakes!—It is just as I suspected! (Catches sight of himself in a mirror.) Good Lord, how bad I look! (Turns away painfully from the mirror; looks in it again, forces a smile to his face, and so, smiling, goes towards the verandah, where BERENT is seen coming in slowly from the left.)
Tjaelde (greeting BERENT politely but with reserve). I feel honoured at receiving a visit from so distinguished a man.
Berent. Mr. Tjaelde, I believe?
Tjaelde. At your service! My eldest daughter has just been telling me that she had seen you walking about my property.
Berent. Yes; an extensive property—and an extensive business.
Tjaelde. Too extensive, Mr. Berent. Too many-sided. But one thing has led to another. Pray sit down.
Berent. Thank you; it is very warm to-day. (A maid brings in cakes and wine, and puts them on the table.)
Tjaelde. Let me give you a glass of wine?