MRS. FLAMM
It's official business.
FLAMM, without coat or waistcoat, appears in the door of his den. His gleaming white shirt is open in front. He is busy cleaning the barrels of a shotgun.
FLAMM
Here I am. The machinist Streckmann was here just now. I'd like to have my threshing done at once, but the machine is down there on the estate and they're far from being done … Dear me! Surely that's father Bernd.
BERND
Yes, Mr. Flamm, we have come here. We were wantin' to….
FLAMM
One thing after another! Patience! [He examines the barrels of the gun carefully.] If you have official business for the magistrate, you'd better wait a little while. Steckel will be my successor and he will take these matters a deal more solemnly.