clothes. Pauses.] But? No, it's impossible! Why, I did it for love!
Children.
[At the door, left.] Mamma, the strange man has gone now.
Nora.
Yes, yes, I know. But don't tell any one about the strange man. Do you hear? Not even papa!
Children.
No, mamma; and now will you play with us again?
Nora.
No, no; not now.
Children.
Oh, do, mamma; you know you promised.
Nora.
Yes, but I can't just now. Run to the nursery; I have so much to do. Run along, run along, and be good, my darlings! [She pushes them gently into the inner room, and closes the door behind them. Sits on the sofa, embroiders a few stitches, but soon pauses.] No! [Throws down the work, rises, goes to the hall door and calls out.] Ellen, bring in the Christmas-tree! [Goes to table, left, and opens the drawer; again pauses.] No, it's quite impossible!
Ellen.
[With Christmas-tree.] Where shall I stand it, ma'am?
Nora.
There, in the middle of the room.
