Adolf. I’ve never seen him. He was away for more than six months, but the good fellow must have been as perfect an ass as they’re made, judging by her description—you can take it from me, old man, that her description wasn’t exaggerated.
Gustav. Quite, but why did she marry him?
Adolf. She didn’t know him then. People only get to know one another afterward, don’t you know.
Gustav. But, according to that, people have no business to marry until Well, the man was a tyrant, obviously.
Adolf. Obviously?
Gustav. What husband wouldn’t be? [Casually.] Why, old chap, you’re as much a tyrant as: any of the others.
Adolf. Me? I? Why, I allow my wife to come and go as she jolly well pleases!
Gustav.[Stands up.] Pah! a lot of good that is. I didn’t suppose you kept her locked up. [He turns round behind the square table and comes over to ADOLF on the right.] Don’t you mind if she’s out all night?
Adolf. I should think I do.
Gustav. Look here. [Resuming, his earlier tone.] Speaking as man to man, it simply makes you- ridiculous.