Lizzie. Not even a second! Fanny has—
Hindes [taking an apple from a bag]. Have an apple.
Lizzie [refusing it]. Let me speak, won't you! Fa—
Hindes. May I at least sit down?
Lizzie [loudly]. Fanny has received a letter from Berman!
Hindes [taking a seat]. Saying that his drama has been accepted. I, too, have received a letter from Berman.
Lizzie. That's nothing. The point is that he is seeking to make a match with her. He has practically proposed to her.
Hindes [astonished]. Practically proposed? To Fanny?
Lizzie. Yes, and when Fanny comes back you just see to it that you wish her a right friendly congratulation, and that you make no—[Stops suddenly.] Hm! I came near saying something silly.—Oh, I'm so happy, and I'd just have the whole world happy with me. Do you hear? You must help her celebrate, do you hear? And now, good night to you, for I must run along to the Ginsbergs'.
[Turns to the door at the left singing: "Joy, thou goddess, fair, immortal...."]