Johan.

[Softly seizing Bernick’s arm.] Karsten, Karsten, what have you done?

Mrs. Bernick.

[Softly, in tears.] Oh, Karsten, that I should bring all this shame upon you!

Sandstad.

[Enters hastily from the right, and says, with his hand still on the door-handle.] You must really come now, Consul! The whole railway is hanging by a thread.

Bernick.

[Absently.] What is it? What am I to——?

Lona.

[Earnestly and with emphasis.] You are to rise and support society, brother-in-law!