And then he was arrested?
JULIE
Yes, they arrested him, but they let him go the next day. That makes twice in the two months we’ve been living here that Liliom’s been arrested and let go again.
MARIE
Why do they let him go?
JULIE
Because he is innocent.
[MOTHER HOLLUNDER, a very old woman, sharp-tongued, but in reality quite warm-hearted beneath her formidable exterior, enters at back carrying a few sticks of firewood, and scolding, half to herself.]
MOTHER HOLLUNDER
Always wanting something, but never willing to work for it. He won’t work, and he won’t steal, but he’ll use up a poor old widow’s last bit of firewood. He’ll do that cheerfully enough! A big, strong lout like that lying around all day resting his lazy bones! He ought to be ashamed to look decent people in the face.