Robert. (Sadly reproving) No, mother, I wasn't listening!
Heinecke. (Defiantly) And I want a new paste-pot--you ought to be able to afford that! (The three come back from the bedroom. Auguste carries a colored shawl, Alma a jewel-case, Michalski a Turkish pipe. They surround Robert and thank him)
Auguste. What a pity they don't wear Indian shawls any more!
Michalski. (Puffing at the stem of his pipe) Course it don't draw!
Robert. (To Alma, who is playing with her jewels) Are you satisfied, Alma? Look at the three blue stones, they are Indian sapphire.
Alma. Very pretty! But to tell the truth, I like the dark-blue sapphires more! They have such beautiful brilliancy!
Robert. How do you know so much about such things?
Alma. Oh--from the shop windows! People of our sort like to look in windows!
Robert. And what's that shining in your ear?
Alma. Paste, that's all! Two Marks a pair!