Helen (Goes towards the bedroom').—I will hide in the bedroom.
Vlasák.—That’s where she’s going to build a fire. Stay here. (A renewed, wild ringing.)
Helen (Excited).—Hurry! Whoever it is knows you’re at home—open!
Vlasák (Decisively).—Stay here. And if I don’t say in a loud voice. “So you’ve returned, Mrs. Sebesta?” go at once into the bedroom.
Helen.—All right! Quickly!
Vlasák (Takes the lamp and departs, indicating meanwhile to Helen to be absolutely quiet.)
(Helen nods assent and steps close to the book-case near the door of the bedroom.)
Vlasák (Enters the vestibule. The stage is in complete darkness. Vlasák outside is heard opening the door and then cries out in amazement).—Ah! (In a loud voice.) Is that you, Mr. Dušek?
(Helen trembles.)
Vlasák (Outside).—I am about to go, also
(Helen steps toward the bedroom.)
Dušek (Enters the room talking towards rear).—I just had to return, doctor.
(Helen disappears into the bedroom.)
Vlasák (Enters with the lamp in his hand, behind Dušek.)—Is it so urgent? (Looking about.) Sit down here, please! (Indicates a chair near the table on which he sets lamp.)
Dušek (Shakes the snow from his overcoat with a violent motion, throws off his hat and speaks rapidly without seating himself).—Dr. Vlasák, why didn’t you go away with me at once!
Vlasák (Grasping that Dušek knows about Helen, boldly retorts).—But, by what right
Dušek (Explosively).—By what right? (Pauses, listening.) I’ll very soon tell you that. (Abruptly) Pardon me! (Leaps quickly towards entrance to vestibule and having opened the door stands on the threshold partly turned towards the room and partly towards the vestibule.)
Vlasák (Comprehending his intention, furiously).—Have you gone mad, man? (Seizing him by the hand he draws him away from the door.) What do you want, speak!
Dušek (Again runs to the door).—I’ll tell you at once, but from here!
Vlasák (Raging).—Insolent fellow! (Seizes him again and drags him into the room.) Don’t you yet see what you are doing in my apartments?
