Burgomaster.

The small taxpayers form the majority—here as everywhere.

Aslaksen.

That’s very true.

Burgomaster.

And I have no doubt that you know the general feeling among them. Am I right?

Aslaksen.

Yes, I think I may say that I do, Burgomaster.

Burgomaster.

Well—since our townsfolk of the poorer class appear to be so heroically eager to make sacrifices——