Adolf. Ridiculous? Can a man’s trusting his wife make him ridiculous?
Gustav. Of course it can. And you’ve been so for some time. No doubt about it. [He walks round the round table on the right.]
Adolf.[Excitedly.] Me? I’d have preferred to be anything but that. I must put matters- right.
Gustav. Don’t you get so excited, otherwise you’ll get an attack again.
Adolf.[After a pause.] Why doesn’t she look ridiculous when’ I stay out all night?
Gustav. Why? Don’t you bother about that. That’s how the matter stands, and while you’re fooling about moping, the mischief is done. [He goes behind the square table, and walks behind the sofa.]
Adolf. What mischief?
Gustav. Her husband, you know, was a tyrant, and she simply married him in order to be free. For what other way is there for a girl to get free, than by getting the so-called husband to act as cover?
Adolf. Why, of course.
Gustav. And now, old man, you’re the cover.