Hovstad.

You are very welcome, Burgomaster; I am at your service. Let me take your cap and stick. [He does so, and puts them on a chair.] And won’t you be seated?

Burgomaster.

[Sitting down by the table.] Thanks. [Hovstad also sits by the table.] I have been much—very much worried to-day, Mr. Hovstad.

Hovstad.

Really? Well, I suppose with all your various duties, Burgomaster——

Burgomaster.

It is the Doctor that has been causing me annoyance to-day.

Hovstad.

Indeed! The Doctor?