Pettersen. Yes, Mrs. Sorby.
She and the two gentlemen pass into the room at the back, and thence right. Pettersen and Jensen go out the same way.
Pale Fat Gentleman (to the thin-haired one). Phew! That dinner—it was a stiff bit of work!
Thin-haired Gentleman. Oh! with a little good-will one can get through an immense deal in three hours.
Fat Gentleman.—Ah, but afterwards, afterwards, my dear Chamberlain![1]
[1] The title of Chamberlain (Kammeherre) is one bestowed by the king as a special distinction upon men of wealth and position. It is the only title now permitted in Norway, where all titles of nobility were abolished in 1814.
Short-sighted Gentleman. I hear the Mocha and Maraschino are to be served in the music-room.
Fat Gentleman. Brave! Then Mrs. Sorby can play us something.
Thin-haired Gentleman (in a low voice). If only Mrs. Sorby doesn’t play us any tricks.
Fat Gentleman. Oh, no; Bertha will never turn against her old friends!