Robert. (Starts to speak then stops) Call Father and mother!
Alma. And now I'm going to ask father if I--(As he threatens her) Yes, yes, I'm going! (She goes out)
Robert. So that is the way it stands?--That's my sister! Ah, what a weak fool I was!--Began to sugar this indecency with poetry and sorrow!--That wasn't seduction--it was in the blood!--Well, I must act, now! Rough if need be, otherwise everything is lost.
(Enter Frau Heinecke, pushing Alma before her, Heinecke follows, his mouth full.)
Heinecke. This impudence!
Frau Heinecke. Masked balls cost money. Now, you'll stay at home.
Heinecke. Do you deserve my curse or not? I curse you again, you toad!
Robert. Alma, go into the other room! I have something to say to father and mother.
Frau Heinecke. And don't slop around so! Dress yourself! The gray dress with the patches!
Alma. That old thing!