The Stranger
Scene
A small room with tiny windows. The walls have not been whitewashed for a long time, and poverty peeps out of every corner. It is the end of summer, about midday. Fraidele is kneading the dough in a large tub, which stands on a log in the middle of the room. The work is far too hard for her and she stops to rest frequently without removing her hands from the dough. A wagon is heard driving up to the house. Mordcha comes in, carrying an armful of wood.
Fraidele
Where do you come from, papa?
Mordcha
From the woods.
Fraidele
Are you taking wood to the city?
Mordcha
Yes, my child. Here, I have brought you some dry wood. I’ll put it right into the oven.
Fraidele
I can do it myself, papa. Better go now so you can come home early.
Mordcha
I’ll be home early today anyway. I promised to deliver the wood in time for the Sabbath.
Fraidele
When you come home late I get so—lonely.
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