BERND

Maybe she thought as the feller meant mischief. He's been a sinner from his childhood on! Many a time his mother complained of it!… It may be! 'Twouldn't surprise no one in him.

AUGUST

When I see that man, I don't seem to be myself no longer. Hot an' cold shudders run down my back, an' I come near to accusin' our Heavenly Father … because he didn't make me a Samson in strength. Such times, God forgive me, I have evil thoughts. [The whizzing of Streckmann's engine is heard.] There he is!

BERND

Don't take no notice of him.

AUGUST

I won't. An' when 'tis all over, I'll shut myself up in my four walls an' we can lead a quiet life.

BERND

A good, quiet life—God grant it!