Leonore. Do you know what they are whispering around the factory? That you are paying far too much attention to Robert Heinecke's sister--that you----
Kurt. (Shrugging his shoulders) Yes, and you allow yourself to carry the gossip of the backstairs about----
Leonore. Kurt, not that tone! I defended you from Mama and Papa to-day. The next time I shan't do it. And remember one thing: Robert has come back.--If he finds his sister guilty--don't worry, I wouldn't dare think it!--But the girl is frivolous and vain! If it were so--and you were to blame, Kurt, take care! He would break you in pieces!
Kurt. Who? My clerk?--with his sample-case?
Leonore. And you stoop to steal this from your clerk.
Kurt. What's that? Steal--steal what?
Leonore. His position in the world! His good name!
Kurt, The good name of Heinecke--bah!
(Enter a servant with two visiting cards which he hands to Leonore.)
Leonore. Visitors for you.