Ruster. (Blinking) I dare not!
Olga. (Laughing joyously) Then you must accustom yourself to them, Ruster! Perhaps you could help them with their reading. They need a schoolmaster! (Turning to children triumphantly.) How would you like that, children?
(Enter Liljekrona, violin under his arm. Ruster remains motionless by the fireplace with bowed head.)
Liljekrona. Why are you laughing, Olga, what is it?
Olga. Nothing—but that Ruster has come again!
Liljekrona. (Perplexed) Ruster here again?
Olga. (Beaming) Yes, and he is going to stay with us to teach our little boys.
Liljekrona. Ruster! (With amazement) You have asked him to teach——?
Olga. Yes, Oswald and Sigurd. He has been helping them this afternoon.
Liljekrona. But—has he promised to give up——?