Magda Part 24

She has made noise enough, at least.

MAGDA.

Oh, she couldn't live without a good row. And when she gets too excited, she quietly throws a plate at your head. I'm accustomed to it.

What is papa doing?

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

He's making his excuses to the members of the Committee.

MAGDA.

Is your life still half made up of excuses? What sort of a committee is it?

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

It's the Christian Aid Society. They should have had a meeting here this morning in our house. Now we thought it would not do. It would look as if we wanted to introduce you.

FRANZISKA.

But, Augusta, now it will look as if your daughter were more important to you--

MAGDA.

Well, I hope she is!

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

Of course! But--oh dear, you don't know what sort of people they are.

They are deserving of great respect. For instance, there's Mrs. General von Klebs. [_Proudly_.] We are friends of hers.

MAGDA.

[_With sham respect_.] Really?

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

Now, they'll probably come to-morrow. Then you'll meet, besides, some other pious and aristocratic ladies whose patronage gains us a great deal of influence. I'm curious to see how they'll like you.

MAGDA.

How I shall like them, you should say.

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

Yes--that is--but we're talking and talking--

MARIE.

[_Jumping up_.] Oh, excuse me, mamma.

MAGDA.

No, you must stay here.

MRS. SCHWARTZE.

Yes, Magda; but about your trunks at the hotel,--I am constantly on the rack for fear something should be left.

MAGDA.

Send for them, then, children.

FRANZISKA.

[_Aside to_ Mrs. Schwartze.] Now I'll question her thoroughly, Augusta.

Leave us alone.

[_Exit_ Mrs. Schwartze.

FRANZISKA.

[_Sitting down, with importance_.] And now, my dear Magda, you must tell your old aunt all about it.

MAGDA.

Eh? Ah, look here, mamma needs help. Go on, quick! Make yourself useful.

FRANZISKA.

[_Viciously_.] If you command it.

MAGDA.

Oh, I have only to request.

FRANZISKA.

[_Rising_.] It seems to me that your requests are somewhat forcible.

MAGDA.

[_Laughing_.] Perhaps.

[_Exit_ Franziska _in a rage_.

MARIE.