[In unquiet thought.] Go to the bottom——?

Aune enters from the right.

Aune.

Asking your pardon, Consul, might I speak to you——?

Bernick.

[Turns angrily.] What do you want?

Aune.

I wanted, if I might, to ask you a question, Consul Bernick.

Bernick.

Well, well; be quick. What is it about?