FIRST SCENE.
Archibald Alexander translation
Wilhelm (servant over sixty, in half livery, is engaged in arranging the samovar for the afternoon coffee). Agnes (extremely slender, nervous, with traces of mental distress--twenty years of age--blonde hair smoothed on the temples, light muslin gown, a garden hat in her hand--enters from the terrace).
Agnes.
Wilhelm, has the postman been here?
Wilhelm (sighing).
Yes, yes, he was here.
Agnes.
Where are the things?
Wilhelm.
They are on the table, Fräulein.
Agnes.
(Goes quickly to the table and with feverish haste looks through the small pile of newspapers and letters lying there.) Again, nothing!
Wilhelm.
Yes, indeed--and this is the seventh day. Ah, it is really heart-breaking.
Agnes.
Are your master and mistress still taking their afternoon nap?
Wilhelm.
I have just heard the Major. He will be here directly--there he is now!