The Dramatic Works of Gerhart Hauptmann, Volume I

by Gerhart Hauptmann

Of course it would be best if we could procure an additional witness.

MOTES

I would have to look about. The trouble is, though, that the man is very prodigal of his money.

WEHRHAHN

Ah, just wait a minute. Krueger is coming in now. I will first attend to his business. At all events I am very grateful to you for your active assistance. One is absolutely dependent on such assistance if one desires to accomplish anything nowadays.

KRUEGER

[Enters hastily and excitedly.] O Lord, O Lord! Good day, your honour.

WEHRHAHN

[To MOTES.] Pardon me just a moment. [In an arrogant and inquisitorial tone to KRUEGER.] What is it you want?

KRUEGER is a small man, somewhat hard of hearing and nearly seventy years old. He is slightly bowed with age; his left shoulder hangs somewhat. Otherwise he is still very vigorous and emphasises his remarks by violent gesticulations. He wears a fur cap which he is now holding in his hand, a brown winter overcoat and a thick woolen shawl around his neck.