Gina (coming between them). You mustn’t do that, Relling. But this I will say, Mr. Werle, that after making all that horrid mess in there with the stove, you shouldn’t come here chattering about stenches.
There is a knock at the door.
Hedvig. Mother, someone’s knocking.
Hjalmar. That’s it! Now we’re to be bothered with a lot of people!
Gina. Only leave it to me—— (She goes and opens the door; starts, shudders, and draws back.) Oh! oh, dear!
Mr. Werle in a fur coat comes a step forward.
Werle. I beg your pardon; but I am told my son is living here.
Gina (in a choking voice). Yes——
Hjalmar (coming nearer). Won’t you come in, sir?
Werle. Thanks; I only wish to speak to my son.