(Enter Frau Muhlingk.)
Kurt. (Aside) Here comes the old lady, this will be great.
Frau Muhlingk. Oh, Kurt! Kurt!
Kurt. Yes, Mother?
Frau Muhlingk. (Sitting) You have brought a great deal of trouble to your parents. You forced your father to bargain with that rabble. (Leonore enters left) Oh, how disgusting! what humiliation for us! (To Leonore) What do you want?
Leonore. I have something to say to you.
Muhlingk. We haven't time now, go to your room.
Leonore. No, Father. I can't play the part of the silent daughter any longer. If I am a member of the family I want to take part in this conversation.
Muhlingk. What is the meaning of all this ceremony?
Leonore. Something very unfortunate has taken place in our family.