LIND [who has noticed nothing].
I have a brother's compliments to pay.
[He, with the other guests, approaches FALK, but
starts involuntarily and steps back on looking
at him.
What is the matter with you? You're a Janus
With double face!
FALK [smiling].
I cry, like old Montanus,(6)
The earth is flat, Messieurs;—by optics lied;
Flat as a pancake—are you satisfied?
[Goes quickly out to the right.
MISS JAY.
Refused!
THE AUNTS.
Refused!
MRS. HALM.
Hush, ladies, if you please!
[Goes across to SVANHILD.
MRS. STRAWMAN [to STRAWMAN].
Fancy, refused!
STRAWMAN.
It cannot be!
MISS JAY.
It is!