At Werle’s house. A richly and comfortably furnished study; bookcases and upholstered furniture; a writing-table, with papers and documents, in the centre of the room; lighted lamps with green shades, giving a subdued light. At the back, open folding-doors with curtains drawn back. Within is seen a large and handsome room, brilliantly lighted with lamps and branching candlesticks. In front, on the right (in the study), a small baize door leads into Werle’s office. On the left, in front, a fireplace with a glowing coal fire, and farther back a double door leading into the dining-room.
Werle’s servant, Pettersen, in livery, and Jensen, the hired waiter, in black, are putting the study in order. In the large room, two or three other hired waiters are moving about, arranging things and lighting more candles. From the dining-room, the hum of conversation and laughter of many voices are heard; a glass is tapped with a knife; silence follows, and a toast is proposed; shouts of “Bravo!” and then again a buzz of conversation.
Pettersen.
[Lights a lamp on the chimney-place and places a shade over it.] Hark to them, Jensen! now the old man’s on his legs holding a long palaver about Mrs. Sörby.
Jensen.
[Pushing forward an arm-chair.] Is it true, what folks say, that they’re—very good friends, eh?
Pettersen.
Lord knows.
Jensen.
I've heard tell as he’s been a lively customer in his day.