[Friebe nods and obeys with joyful alacrity.
Mrs Scholz.
But Fritz, tell me—only tell me, my mind’s all confused (weeping, embraces him). Ah Fritz! what grief you’ve caused me all this long, long time.
Dr Scholz (putting his wife gently from him).
Ah well, my life too—we’d better not begin with reproaches. You’re just the same doleful old thing (with gentle bitterness). Anyhow I should certainly not have troubled you—if it hadn’t been for—(Friebe takes his cloak, etc.) There are times in life, dear Minna—if one has powerful enemies as I have—
[Friebe goes out through the stairway with the Dr’s belongings.
Mrs Scholz (pretending to be cross).
Nobody made you come, Fritz. Here there has always been a safe, cosy home;—you could have lived so comfortably here.
Dr Scholz.