Glyszinski (seizes her hand). Can't you leave Paul! My life is at stake.
Hella. Dear friend, don't stake your life so foolishly! And release my hand. I do not want to leave Paul! I haven't the slightest reason to do so. We agree very well.
Glyszinski (drops his head). Then I was mistaken, after all.
Hella. Yes, it seems so to me also. You simply do not know what Paul has been to me. [Pause.] I want to go to work, I still have much to do. The editorial work is crowding. (Takes several steps.)
Paul (enters from the right, clad in a riding suit and riding boots, shakes of the snow and waves his hat vigorously as he speaks). Good morning, you stay-at-homes! Just see how I look.
Hella (has turned around at his approach and looks at him). You are bringing winter in with you, Paul.
Paul (with dash). That's what I'm doing. I'm bringing winter in with me. Regular country winter, with ice and snow, such as the city knows only by hearsay. Don't you envy me?
Hella (surprised). How so? For what?
Paul. For what, she asks! Why for all the snow in which I have been stamping about! For this honest winter mood, that I have not had for so many years!
Hella. Where in the world have you been!