The Burgomaster
Well, my poor Claus? Why, what have they been doing to you? You’re bleeding at the mouth and forehead.
Claus
There’s no great harm done, Mr. Burgomaster. They knocked me about a bit, because I didn’t at once understand what they wanted with me; but there’s no great harm done. Luckily I had on an old shirt and my third-best trousers.
The Burgomaster
You know what you’re accused of?
Claus
Yes, Mr. Burgomaster; I didn’t understand at first, but Mr. Otto has explained.
The Burgomaster
You and I have worked together for over forty years, my dear old Claus, and neither of us has anything to say against the other. Do you trust me?