Fires of St. John Part 31

[_Hesitatingly_.] I, too, George!

George.

[_Stroking her hair sadly, patronizing_.] Yes, yes; you, too.

Brauer.

[_Suddenly bursting out_.] You--you idiots! What do you know about it, anyway? I--I didn't understand it myself, but I have a presentiment there is something sinful about it all!

Pastor.

My dear Mr. von Harten, above all your heathenism watches our good old G.o.d, our Father, and therefore I fearlessly drink to your toast.

Brauer.

Well, well, I'll not be the only exception. [_Drinks also. A glow much nearer, behind the trees. Louder yelling and laughter_.] Well, what is it now?

Paul.

They are dangerously near the sheds now.

Brauer.

Didn't I tell you to take the proper precautions?

Paul.

I did. They had only three tar-barrels early this evening. Where they got the fourth from, I don't know.

Brauer.

I'll wager they found the barrel of axle-grease! Why didn't you lock it up?

Paul.

You know yourself, on this day no lock or key is of any avail.

Brauer.

Don't talk nonsense, but see what's to be done. I will be there myself, presently. Be quick! [Paul _exits_.] I can't depend on anybody these days! Where is my hat? [Marie _gets it_.]

Gertrude.

Can't we go, too, papa?

Brauer.

Will you come, wife?

Mrs. Brauer.

Yes, gladly, but stop scolding. There isn't a breath of air stirring, and therefore no danger.

Brauer.

Come along, Pastor!

[_Exit_ Brauer, George, Gertrude _and_ Mrs. Brauer.]

Pastor.

Won't you accompany us, Miss Marie?

Marie.

No, thank you, Pastor!

Pastor.

Then may I remain with you for a while?

Several Voices.

[_Outside, calling_.] Pastor, Pastor!

Pastor.

[_Speaks through door_.] I will be with you in a moment! [_To_ Marie.]

Well, may I!

Marie.

Why, certainly, if it gives you pleasure!

Pastor.

Pleasure is hardly the proper word. I wanted to thank you for insisting upon my writing the bridal-poem. It has been a work of pleasure, I a.s.sure you. Do you like it?

Marie.

It is very nice. Pastor!

Pastor.

Have you memorized it already?

Marie.

I think so!