STRAWMAN.
Between us two there's a battle to the death;
You've slandered me, my wife, my little flock,
From Molly down to Millie, in one breath.
Crow on, crow on—Emancipation's cock,—
[Goes in followed by his wife and children.
FALK.
And go you on observing Peter's faith
To Love your lord—who, thanks to your advice,
Was thrice denied before the cock crew thrice!
MISS JAY [turning faint].
Attend me, Stiver! help me get unlaced
My corset—this way, this way—do make haste!
STIVER [to FALK as he withdraws with MISS JAY on his arm].
I here renounce your friendship.
LIND.
I likewise.
FALK [seriously].
You too, my Lind?
LIND.
Farewell.
FALK.
You were my nearest one—
LIND.
No help, it is the pleasure of my dearest one.
[He goes in: SVANHILD has remained standing on the
verandah steps.