Does she really play tricks of that sort?

Erhart.

Oh, not at all. How can you think so! She only says it in fun. [Breaking off.] But don’t let us talk about Mrs. Wilton. [He forces Ella Rentheim to seat herself in the armchair beside the stove, then stands and looks at her.] To think of your having taken all this long journey, Aunt Ella! And in winter too!

Ella Rentheim.

I found I had to, Erhart.

Erhart.

Indeed? Why so?

Ella Rentheim.

I had to come to town after all, to consult the doctors.

Erhart.