Sophie (to Andries). Will it be all right if I give it to this man? [Andries does not answer.] Good gracious! what’s the matter? Why are you standing there as glum and stiff as if you were on parade?
[Tries to seize his hand, but he pushes her gently back.]
Andries (nodding towards the General, who is watching them with an air of amusement). Eh!
Sophie (shakes him by the arm). Do speak! What is it?
Andries. Eh!
Sophie. Has he made you like that? (To Van Weller.) What does this mean? I don’t like it. It doesn’t suit me at all. May I ask you, for the last time, to tell me what it means? [Van Weller laughs heartily.] Still better! He thinks he’s making a fool of me. [Turns to Andries and shakes his arm again.] Andries, Andries, do speak, or I shall be angry!
Andries (under his breath). Do be quiet! It’s the General!
“ENTER SOPHIE WITH A NOTE.”
Sophie. Oh! (Turns to Van Weller.) Please, sir, may I ask why you wouldn’t let Andries go out on leave the other day? That was not nice of you. I’d——