Thekla. No, really?
Adolf [sits down in his previous place by the square table]. No, really? [Pause, during which he appears to be making an effort to remember something, but without success.] Thekla, do you know that your frankness is beginning to be positively agonizing? [Thekla moves away from him behind the square table and goes behind the sofa on the left.] Haven't you told me, times out of number, that frankness is the most beautiful virtue you know, and that I must spend all my time in acquiring it? But it seems to me you take cover behind your frankness.
Thekla. Those are the new tactics, don't you see.
Adolf [after a pause]. I don't know how it is, but this place begins to feel uncanny. If you don't mind, we'll travel home this very night.
Thekla. What an idea you've got into your head again. I've just arrived, and I've no wish to travel off again.
[She sits down on the sofa on the left.]
Adolf. But if I want it?
Thekla. Nonsense! What do I care what you want? Travel alone.
Adolf [seriously]. I now order you to travel with me by the next steamer.
Thekla. Order? What do you mean by that?