Vlasák (Lightly protesting).—Our gracious hostess speaks a little too definitely. . . . . .
Mrs. Heller.—Well, and—? Mrs. Daneš doesn’t contradict in the least when it is mentioned.
Vlasák (Slightly surprised).—Really? (With a smile.) Truly, dear Mrs. Heller, your news is always agreeable
Nedoma.—And how about Miss Daneš?
Mrs. Heller.—You don’t know even that? And you are their family physician?
Nedoma.—But only their physician, my dear lady. Among our sort it is true that a physician may also become a family confidant but not in every case. In your household, to be sure, that honor is accorded me.
Mrs. Heller (Laughingly).—Our doctor is even gallant at times!
Nedoma.—Is that so strange?
Mrs. Heller.—Strange enough especially since some one of us is ill all the time. Why, you don’t even have any time left for gallantry.
(Helen enters from the back through the door at the left. She is dressed in a rich and daintily attractive gown.)
(Dušek follows her. Since the first act Dušek has changed into a perfect dandy; his evening clothes are faultless, his hair smoothly brushed and his beard cut according to the mode.)
(Vlasák bows silently to Helen who extends her hand.)
Nedoma (Greets Helen and presses Dušek’s hand).—If one wouldn’t seek you in reception halls, Mr. Dušek, he never would find you in your studio.
Vlasák (Gives his hand to Dušek).—My respects, Mr. Dušek! Never mind in the least the doctor’s reproaches, Mr. Dušek. Today is again one of his bad days.
Dušek (To Nedoma).—Ah, did you struggle clear upstairs to see me, Doctor?
Nedoma (Surprised).—Didn’t you find my card?
Mrs. Heller.—Pardon me, gentlemen. (She departs through the left door at the rear.)
(All bow silently.)
Nedoma (To Dušek).—I was at your studio Sunday morning—and today is Wednesday.
Helen (To Dušek).—What! You haven’t been at the studio since Sunday? (She shakes her finger at him.) You! you!
Nedoma (To Helen).—And you scold Mr. Dušek for that?
