Frau Heinecke. Oh, that only happens in books!
Heinecke. Hey?
Robert. My dear parents! You mustn't go on like this! Please leave me alone with her a moment. Meanwhile, dress. I daresay there will be visitors.
Heinecke. And I'm not allowed to curse my--Hmm, wait!
(Frau Heinecke pulls him out of the room.)
Robert. (To himself) Now I'll see what she really thinks, and what I have to do! (Softly) Come here, sister.
Alma. Mother said I had to clean the room.
Robert. That can wait! (Takes her hand) You don't need to be afraid I won't strike you! And I won't curse you, either. You may be sure you have one good friend who is willing to keep watch over you--a true and considerate friend.
Alma. You are too good--Much too good! (She sinks down before him weeping)
Robert. There, there--get up! Sit on the footstool!--There--(She sits on the stool) and straighten up, so I can see your eyes. (Tries to lift her head, but she hides it in her lap) You won't! Well, cry then! I won't send you away from here--and you will cry for many a day and many a night when you really understand what you have done! Tell me, you realize, don't you, that all the rest of your life must be repentance?