Heinecke. Yes, you're a long way from her lap--far away cows have long horns--There, it's "dear little Mother! sweet little sister!"--But if you knew what I've had to stand! Not once does she give me horse-car-fare when I want to go to town for a glass of beer!
Robert. Are you quite fair to her? Doesn't she cherish you as the apple of her eye?
Heinecke. Lord, I didn't mean to say anything against her--shh!--here she comes! (Enter Frau Heinecke with a steaming coffee-pot) Sit down, Bobby,--No, here in the arm-chair! Wait a minute! (Pulls off the covering from the chair) Such a fine gentleman ought to sit on pure silk!
Frau Heinecke. Yes, and the other's just the same! Two pieces we've got! And have you seen the pier-glass? All gold creepers, and the glass in one piece! Augusta's husband says it cost at least two hundred marks!
Robert. Where did all these wonderful things come from.
Frau Heinecke. From the Councillor!
Robert. He gives you things like this?
Heinecke. Naw, only----
Frau Heinecke. (Aside) Ssh! don't you know that Herr Kurt doesn't want it known? (To Robert) Yes, last Christmas he gave us the mirror, and this Christmas the two chairs. Father, quit boring holes in the pound cake!
Robert. Really, I don't like this sort of generosity!