Alma. You've got nothing to say to me any more. (She breaks away)

Robert. Little sister!

Alma. And I'm going to the masked ball, too! Ask mother if I ain't.

Robert. Mother!

Frau Heinecke. Why shouldn't the poor child have a little fun once in a while?

Robert. (Overcome) So we've gone that far?

Michalski. (Sitting in chair, mockingly) Yes, we've gone that far!

Robert. You--Procuror! Get out of that chair! (Michalski remains seated, Robert takes hold of the back of the chair) Get up, I say, and get out of here, both of you!

Michalski. (Threateningly) Now that's a little too fresh!

Robert. (Who has seized the chair) Dare to lay a hand on me!