Engstrand. I have made a practice of saying a few prayers there myself each evening.
Mrs. Alving. Have you?
Engstrand. Yes, ma'am, now—and then—just as a little edification, so to speak. But I am only a poor common man, and haven't rightly the gift, alas—and so I thought that as Mr. Manders happened to be here, perhaps—
Manders. Look here, Engstrand! First of all I must ask you a question. Are you in a proper frame of mind for such a thing? Is your conscience free and untroubled?
Engstrand. Heaven have mercy on me a sinner! My conscience isn't worth our speaking about, Mr. Manders.
Manders. But it is just what we must speak about. What do you say to my question?
Engstrand. My conscience? Well—it's uneasy sometimes, of course.
Manders. Ah, you admit that at all events. Now will you tell me, without any concealment—what is your relationship to Regina?
Mrs. Alving (hastily). Mr. Manders!
Manders (calming her).—Leave it to me!