Sophie. It may be the lady who was here before.

Louise. Heavens, I had almost forgotten her. If it's the lady—

Sophie. Yes?

Louise. See who it is.

Sophie [going]. Yes, madam.

Vennema. What is it, Louise? What does the lady wish?

Louise. Nothing, father [with a forced laugh]. Nothing at all.

Vennema. Must you see her? Can't you say that you are about to go away on a trip and that you cannot see her? Say that, and let us go.

Louise. Oh, it's nothing. I will just speak to her, and then we will go at once. [She laughs again in a forced manner.]

Vennema. But why are you so excited?