Alfred (disappointed). It was the most interesting part! But the long and the short of it is that I have resolved to renounce writing my wonderful work on Canine Idiosyncracy! I am going to act it out instead—on Little Mopsëman. (With shining eyes.) I intend to perfect the rich possibilities that lie hidden in that rather unprepossessing poodle. There!
Spreta (holding aloof from him). And is that all?
Alfred. H'm, yes, that's all. But you never did properly appreciate poor Little Mopsëman!
Mopsa (pressing his hand). She never did, Alfred. But I do. And we will teach him the loveliest new tricks together. (Fixes her eyes on him.) Just you and I.
Spreta. Alfred, I won't have the dog taught any tomfoolery. You shall not divide yourself up like that. Do you hear?
Sanitary Engineer Blochdrähn (enters by door). Aha, so you've got your husband thoroughly in hand, as usual, eh, Mrs. Früyseck? (To the others.) I bring glorious news. I have just been called in to see to the Schoolhouse drains again! I only laid them last Autumn; but there seems to be a leakage somewhere. Quite a big piece of new work, really!
Mopsa. And you are beaming with joy over that?
San. Eng. Bloch. I am indeed. And afterwards I have several important drains to disconnect at the great new hotel in Christiania, and the most tremendous scientific safeguards to grapple with and overthrow. What a glorious thing it is to be a plumber and make a little extra work for oneself in the world! Miss Mopsa, can I persuade you to take a little turn in the garden? Do!
[Offers his arm.
Mopsa (takes it). Oh, I don't mind—provided you don't talk either shop or sentiment.