A. (Springing up and waltzing about the room.) They’re here—in this very village—to learn German—for three months! Es sollte mich sehr freuen wenn Sie—
M. (Joining in the dance.) Oh, it’s just too lovely for anything! (Unconsciously memorising:) Es ware mir lieb wenn Sie morgen mit mir in die Kirche gehen konnten, aber ich kann selbst nicht gehen, weil ich Sonntags gewohnlich krank bin. Juckhe!
A. (Finishing some unconscious memorising.)—morgen Mittag bei mir speisen konnten. Juckhe! Sit down and I’ll tell you all I’ve heard. (They sit.) They’re here, and under that same odious law that fetters us—our tongues, I mean; the metaphor’s faulty, but no matter. They can go out, and see people, only on condition that they hear and speak German, and German only.
M. Isn’t—that—too lovely!
A. And they’re coming to see us!
M. Darling! (Kissing her.) But are you sure?
A. Sure as guns—Gatling guns!
M. ‘Sh! don’t, child, it’s schrecklich! Darling—you aren’t mistaken?
A. As sure as g—batteries! (They jump up and dance a moment—then—)
M. (With distress.) But, Annie dear!—we can’t talk German—and neither can they!