Kneirtje.
I wanted to——
Bos.
[Peevishly.] You’ve come five minutes too late. That hussy that lives with you has been in here kicking up such a scandal that I came near telephoning for the police. [Crossly.] Come in. Close the gate after you.
Kneirtje.
[Speaking with difficulty.] Is it true—is it true that——The priest said——[Bos nods with a sombre expression.] Oh, oh——[She stares helplessly, her arms hang limp.]
Bos.
I have sympathy for you. I know you as a respectable woman—and your husband too. But your children! I’m sorry to have to say it to you now after such a blow, your children and that niece of yours have never been any good. [Kneirtje’s head sinks down.] How many years haven’t we had you around, until your son Geert threatened me with his fists, mocked my grey hairs, and all but threw me out of your house—and your other son——[Frightened.] Kneirtje! Kneirtje! [Rising.] Kaps! Water! [Bathing her forehead and wrists.] I’ll be damned! I’ll be damned!
Kaps.
Shall I call Mevrouw or your daughter?