Sophie [entering]. Madam, the lady has gone away. She left this. [She extends a visiting card.] But—
Louise. What is it, Sophie?
Sophie. She told me to tell you that you must think of the bay mare. Here is her card.
Louise [excitedly]. Oh, a card [tries to restrain herself]. Give it to me.
Sophie. Then she said nothing about Elsa and the race.
[Louise takes the card and goes a little to the side.]
Vennema. What's the matter, Louise? What ails you?
Louise [deeply affected]. Father, father! [She looks from the card to her father with tears in her eyes; then she goes mutely toward the couch, sits down, and stares blankly in front of her.]
Louise [sobbing]. I can't do it!
Vennema [takes the visiting card from her hands]. Must you pay all that? Have you lost all that money?