Better to drink oneself to death than live as a scoundrel! And a scoundrel I must remain before the world. William, a bottle and a glass. Have matters come to that pass, that I am no longer master in my own house? Hurry up, there!
[Exit WILLIAM.]
SOPHY.
If only you would change your mind! But you will not do it, and—I must leave you.
FORESTER.
That matter is settled, woman, and my resolution is taken. None of your lamentations! Tomorrow I am going. Since I am not an official of the State and—today I intend to be right jolly.
[WILLIAM brings wine; the FORESTER pours out and drinks repeatedly, every time a full glass. Between glasses he whistles and drums.]
FORESTER.
Put that light away, so that I may not see my shadow.
[WILLIAM puts the lamp on the table near the women, seats himself by them and takes the still opened Bible before him.]