Dear people, as you know very well.
William (growing each moment more constrained and depressed, speaks as though to himself).
Extraordinary! (his eyes catch sight of the Christmas tree, he immediately lowers them; starting involuntarily).
Ida.
But, dearest, surely that’s not the first Christmas tree which you—
William.
Yes, here, and you cannot possibly feel with me how—how—extraordinary——
Ida (taking off his coat; he remains passive).
Please, please, Willy (standing in front of him, his coat over her arm, his hat and satchel in her hand), Willy, look at me! (encouragingly) straight—(stands a moment drawn up to her full height, then puts the things quickly to one side, and comes back to William). You have promised me!