Good Lord, don't you see how upset I am? You might at least give me a glass of water. [MRS. Schwartze brings it.]

HEFFTERDINGT.

Will you promise me, my dear sir, that whatever may happen you will preserve your calmness? You may believe me, much depends upon it.

SCHWARTZE.

Yes, yes; but what--

HEFFTERDINGT.

Miss Franziska will tell you better.

FRANZISKA.

[After drinking the water.] This is a day indeed! Fate is avenging me. This man has for years outraged my holiest feelings, but today I can heap coals of fire on his head. [Moved.] Brother-in-law, give me your hand. Sister, yours.

HEFFTERDINGT.