our customers. . . . There is no possible doubt about it now. . . . The foreman wanted the man discharged a month ago, but you refused to permit it.
Juhasz—But I didn't know he had done this, your excellency.
Count—Well, you know it now. And I trust you have no further doubt that the man must be dismissed.
Juhasz—Well . . . if he has done this . . . then . . . I think the foreman ought to dismiss him.
Count—The foreman ought? Oh, no, Juhasz! You'll dismiss him yourself.
Juhasz—[Aghast.] I?
Count—It's your last chance. Here is the letter. [Gives it to him.] Mate is waiting out there. You will tell him he is dismissed. [Rings.] I'll be back in five minutes. If Mate is dismissed I'll be willing to believe that there is some hope you may mend your ways. If he's not dismissed, then, my son, you and I part company. [Santha enters.] Send Mate in here. [Santha exits at left.] Five minutes!
Juhasz—Excellency, may I ask one favor?
Count—Well?
Juhasz—Make it . . . ten minutes. It's not so easy for me.
