Glyszinski (enters, makes a sign suggesting silence, points toward the outside). Do you hear that instrument, madam? That's what they call a pot harp, very interesting!
Hella (as before). Interesting or not. Why must you disturb us just now?
Glyszinski (offended). If I had known this, I should not have come! (About to go out.)
Paul (quite cold again). Stay right here, dear Glyszinski! You haven't disturbed us up to the present! I do not see that you are disturbing us now!
Inspector (comes in through the open door). Sir, the people are outside with the pot harp and want to sing their song.
Hella (annoyed). Oh, tell them to go and be done with it!
Paul (quickly). No, please, Hella, that won't do. That is an old custom here on New Year's eve. Let them sing their song. Besides, I like to hear it. I heard it many a time in my boyhood days.
Inspector. Shall I leave the door open, sir?
Paul. Please! (He sits down at the fireplace.)
Hella (steps up to him, with a voice that betrays excitement). Paul, do not listen to that nonsense out there! Don't let them muddle your head!