LOTH
Helen!
THE CURTAIN DROPS QUICKLY
THE FOURTH ACT
The farmyard, as in the second act. Time: a quarter of an hour after HELEN'S avowal.
MARIE and GOLISCH the cowherd drag a wooden chest down the stairs that lead to the loft. LOTH comes from the house. He is dressed for travelling and goes slowly and thoughtfully diagonally across the yard. Before he turns into the path that leads to the inn, he comes upon HOFFMANN, who is hurrying toward him through the gateway.
HOFFMANN
[In top hat and kid gloves.] Don't be angry with me. [He obstructs
LOTH'S way and grasps both of his hands.] I take it all back herewith
… Mention any reparation you demand … I am ready to give you any!…
I'm most truly, most sincerely sorry.
LOTH
That helps neither of us very much.