Heinecke. I--I----
Muhlingk. I have offered an unusually large amount in order to free myself of a promise extracted yesterday by your son from my son.--It amounts to--a--fifty thousand marks.
Heinecke. (With an exclamation) God! Herr Councillor, are you in earnest?
Frau Heinecke. I'm getting dizzy! (Sinks into a chair)
Muhlingk. (Aside) I made it too high!--I put the question again, will you be satisfied with forty thousand marks?
Auguste. (Nudging her father) Say yes, quick--or he'll come down again.
Heinecke. I can't believe it, Herr Councillor! Even the forty--There isn't that much money--It's nonsense--show me the money.
Muhlingk. It is at the office, waiting for you.
Heinecke. And the cashier won't say: Put the fellow out--he's drunk!--Oh, he can be right sharp with the poor people when he wants to--that cashier! (Muhlingk draws out a check and fills it; hands it to Heinecke: they all study the writing) Forty thousand marks! Always the generous gentleman, Herr Councillor. Give me your hand!
Muhlingk. (Putting his hand in his pocket) One thing more: to-morrow evening a moving van will be in front of your door; within two hours you will be good enough to leave my property,--and I hope that will be the last I hear of you.