Berent. We shall both leave presently. But before we do, we must discuss the question of handing over the house to the Receiver in Bankruptcy.
Tjaelde. Ha, ha, ha! Allow me to inform you that at this very moment a sum is being telegraphed to me which will be sufficient not only to cover my present liabilities, but to set me straight in every direction!
Berent. The telegraph is a useful invention which is open to every one.
Tjaelde (after a moment's thought). What do you mean by that?
Berent. One effect of the noise of your festivities was that I used the telegraph also. Mr. Lind will receive, on board the boat, a telegram from his firm—and I doubt if the money you speak of will be forthcoming.
Tjaelde. It is not true! You have not dared to do that!
Berent. The facts are exactly as I state.
Tjaelde. Give me my balance-sheet; let me look at it again. (Stretches out his hand to take it.)
Berent (taking it up). Excuse me!
Tjaelde. Do you presume to keep back my own balance-sheet in my own writing?