Sophie. But I think there’s some hurry about it. The young gentleman said I was to bring a key back with me.
[Van Weller takes the note, and reads it, with gestures of astonishment. Looking round, he sees the casket. He goes up to it, and stands still, lost in thought. At last he takes the key out of the lock and gives it to Sophie.]
Van Weller. There’s the key, my girl. You have done your errand well—so go now—just go.
Sophie. But Andries said you wanted to talk to me.
Van Weller. Yes ... no ... it’s hardly needed now.... Or.... (hesitating) How are things going, Sophie?—is there to be a wedding soon?
Sophie (confused). Yes—if Andries....
Van Weller. I’m not speaking of Andries now—I mean in the Van Wachler family.
Sophie. Ah! I think there will, indeed! for the young lady has three lovers.
Van Weller. That’s enough to begin with. I had only heard of one. And who are they?
Sophie (counts on her fingers). First, Jonkar Van Bergen,—then the music-master, Holm,—and the third is old Mr Buys.