Mrs. Röst. Oh!--But if you come with me, my dear!--Are we to meet this woman? Why do you stand still? Surely you don't want to--?
Mrs. Röst. Wait? So that you may talk to her? Oh, you men--you are all alike!
Bishop. But, you know, some one must--. Cornelia!
Cornelia. Not for worlds! I am not going to stir an inch.
Mrs. Röst. Now the old lady is going to interfere. I thought as much!
Grandmother. Courtesy is a duty that every one must recognise.
Bishop. You are quite right. (Goes towards the back of the room; at the same time a knock is heard on the door). Come in! (The door opens, and LEONARDA enters.)
Leonarda. Excuse me, am I speaking to the Bishop?
Bishop. Yes, madam. Whom have I the honour to--?
Bishop. Allow me to introduce my sister--and Mr. Justice Röst and Mrs. Röst--and this is--
Leonarda. "Grandmamma" of whom I have heard, I think!
Bishop. Yes. Let me present Mrs. Falk to you, grandmother.
Grandmother (getting up). I am very glad to see you, ma'am.
Mrs. Röst and Cornelia. What does she say?
Grandmother. As the oldest of the family--which is the only merit I possess--let me bid you welcome. (LEONARDA gives a start, then kneels down and kisses her hand.)
Röst (in a low voice). Does your lordship wish--?
Bishop (in the same tone). No, thank you--I must go through with it now.
Bishop. Many thanks for your visit and for being so frank with me.
Mrs. Röst. That is always our way, your lordship. Good morning!
Cornelia (as they advance to take leave of her). I will see you out.
Röst (to the GRANDMOTHER). I hope I shall always see you looking as well, madam!
Mrs. Röst. Good-bye, madam! No, please don't disturb yourself. You have over-exerted yourself just now you know.
Bishop. She thought you were wishing her good day--or something of that sort.
Röst and Mrs. Röst. Oh, I see! (They laugh. They both ceremoniously in silence to LEONARDA as they pass her; CORNELIA and the BISHOP go with them to see them out, the BISHOP turning at the door and coming back into the room.)
Bishop (to LEONARDA). Won't you sit down?
Leonarda. Your lordship sent me a letter to-day. (She pauses for an answer, but without effect.) In it you give me to understand, as politely as possible, that your family does not wish to have any intercourse with me.
