Berent (pointing to the revolver). Is it loaded?
Tjaelde (putting his finger on the trigger). You will find that out in good time. You must answer me now!
Berent. I have a suggestion to make. Shoot yourself first and me afterwards.
Tjaelde (going up to him and holding the revolver to his head). I will soon quiet your pretty wit.
Berent (getting up, and taking out of his pocket a paper which he unfolds). This is a formal surrender of your estate to the Receiver in Bankruptcy. If you sign it, you will be doing your duty to your creditors, to your family, and to yourself. Shooting yourself and me would only be adding an acted lie to all your others. Put away your revolver and take up your pen!
Tjaelde. Never! I had resolved on this long ago. But you shall keep me company, now!
Berent. Do what you please. But you cannot threaten me into a falsehood.
Tjaelde (who has lowered the revolver, takes a step back, raises the revolver and aims at BERENT). Very well!
Berent (walking up to TJAELDE and looking him straight in the eyes, while the latter reluctantly lowers the revolver). Do you suppose I don't know that a man who has for so long shivered with falsehood and terror in his inmost heart has lots of schemes but no courage? You dare not do it!
Tjaelde (furiously). I will show you! (Steps back and raises the revolver again.)