You will excuse me. I must pay my respects to our hostess.
[He goes off quickly. KARL and ELSA sit down on the L. side of the stage.
ELSA
I don't like that man. Who is he?
[Sits R. of table L.
KARL, sits on sofa L.
A casual acquaintance who insists upon posing as my friend. Don't let us talk about him. I'm glad I found you here—something natural in this stifling artificial atmosphere. Doesn't it seem close to you?
ELSA
Yes, as if some hot wind had passed through these rooms—it seems to take my breath away.
KARL