Lona.
[Looking after her.] Poor Betty!
[Consul Bernick comes out of his office.
Bernick.
[Still at the door.] Yes, yes; that's all right, Krap—that's excellent. Send four hundred crowns for a dinner to the poor. [Turns.] Lona? [Advancing.] You are alone? Is not Betty here?
Lona.
No. Shall I call her?
Bernick.
No, no; please don't! Oh, Lona, you don't know how I have been burning to talk openly with you—to beg for your forgiveness.
Lona.
Now listen, Karsten: don't let us get sentimental. It doesn't suit us.
Bernick.
You must hear me, Lona. I know very well how much appearances are against me, since you have heard all about Dina's mother. But I swear to you it was only a momentary aberration; at one time I really, truly, and honestly loved you.
Lona.
What do you think has brought me home just now?
Bernick.
Whatever you have in mind, I implore you to do nothing before I have justified myself. I can do it, Lona; at least I can show that I was not altogether to blame.
