SCHIGOLCH. If only she doesn't skid away from the gentlemen with honorable intentions and bring us up instead some vagabond she's exchanged her heart's secrets with.
ALVA. I kissed her for the first time in her rustling bridal dress. But afterwards she didn't remember it.... All the same, I believe she had thought of me even in my father's arms. It can't have been often with him: he had his best time behind him, and she deceived him with coachman and boot-black; but when she did give herself to him, then I stood before her soul. Thru that, too, without my realizing it, she attained this dreadful power over me.
SCHIGOLCH. There they are! (Heavy steps are heard mounting the stairs.)
ALVA. (Starting up.) I will not endure it! I'll throw the fellow out!
SCHIGOLCH. (Wearily picks himself up, takes Alva by the collar and cuffs him toward the left.) Forward, forward! How is the young man to confess his trouble to her with us two sprawling round here?
ALVA. But if he demands other things—low things—of her?
SCHIGOLCH. If, well, if! What more will he demand of her? He's only a man like the rest of us!
ALVA. We must leave the door open.
SCHIGOLCH. (Pushing Alva in, right.) Nonsense! Lie down!
ALVA. I'll hear it soon enough. Heaven spare him!