Berent. Yes, when you have signed. (TJAELDE signs the paper, and sinks back in his chair with an expression of the keenest anguish. BERENT takes the paper, folds it, and puts it in his pocket-book.) Now I will go to the Bankruptcy Court with this, and afterwards to the telegraph office. Probably the officials of the court will come this evening to make their inventory. So you ought to warn your family.
Tjaelde. How shall I be able to do that? Give me a little time! Be merciful!
Berent. The sooner the better for you—not to speak of the interests of all concerned. Well, I have finished for the present.
Tjaelde. Don't desert me like this! Don't desert me!
Berent. You would like your wife to come to you, wouldn't you?
Tjaelde (resignedly). Yes.
Berent (taking up the revolver). And this—I will not take it with me. There is no danger from it now. But I will put it in the desk, for the sake of the others. Now, if you or yours should need me, send word to me.
Tjaelde. Thank you.
Berent. I shall not leave the town until the worst is over.—Remember, night or day, if you need me, send word to me.
Tjaelde. Thank you.