What is there to tell you, child? Nothing has happened. We were peacefully eating, and a beggar came who talked of bygone days, and then I thought of your father.

LOUISE

My father?

JULIE

Your father—Liliom. [There is a pause.]

LOUISE

Mother—tell me—has it ever happened to you—has anyone ever hit you—without hurting you in the least?

JULIE

Yes, my child. It has happened to me, too. [There is a pause.]

LOUISE