Hedvig.
[Skipping and clapping her hands.] Oh mother, mother!
Gina.
There, you see; if you only give him time
Hialmar.
[With a paper.] Look, here it is.
Hedvig. That? Why, that's only a paper.
Hialmar.
That is the bill of fare, my dear; the whole bill of fare. Here you see: "Menu "—that means bill of fare.
Hedvig.
Haven't you anything else?
Hialmar.
I forgot the other things, I tell you. But you may take my word for it, these dainties are very unsatisfying. Sit down at the table and read the bill of fare, and then I'll describe to you how the dishes taste. Here you are, Hedvig.
Hedvig. [Gulping down her tears.] Thank you.
[She seats herself, but does not read; Gina makes signs to her; Hialmar notices it.
Hialmar.
[Pacing up and down the room.] It's monstrous what absurd things the father of a family is expected to think of; and if he forgets the smallest
