banquet board in the form of a horseshoe, the sides of
which run to the rear and are hidden by the oleanders. The centre,
forming the head of the board, is plainly visible from the passage. It
is almost noon. Dim light, reflected from the snow outside, comes in
through the middle window of the back wall, a view of which is afforded
through the opening in the centre. The snowflakes flutter down drearily
as on the previous day. The fire now and then casts a red light upon
the oleanders, which separate the space surrounding the fireplace from
the background. AUNT CLARA, in mourning as before, and LENE, also
dressed in black, are busy at the table, which has been set. They move
to and fro arranging plates, glasses and bottles. After a moment.

AUNT CLARA (comes forward in the direction of the passage, inspects the
whole arrangement and speaks to LENE who is occupied in the background,
where she cannot be seen). Are all of the knives and forks properly
arranged back there?

LENE (not visible). Everything's in order, Miss Clara.

AUNT CLARA. Why, then we are through.

LENE. They can come right along now.

AUNT CLARA. I can't help but think that it's time for the bell. (The
old clock in the corridor outside begins to strike.)

LENE (has come forward). It's striking twelve.

AUNT CLARA. You're certain, are you, that the roast is being basted
properly?

LENE. Oh, Lizzie's looking after things.

AUNT CLARA. The sermon seems to be pretty long.

LENE. Oh, he can never find his finish. Miss Clara.

AUNT CLARA. Let him talk, for all I care! Only I might have put off the
dinner.

LENE (listens). Now the bell is ringing. (Distant, indistinct tones of
a church bell are heard.)

AUNT CLARA (also listens). Yes, they are ringing. Then it is over. (She
folds her hands as if in prayer.)

LENE (timidly). Now the coffin's in the ground, ain't it, Miss Clara?

AUNT CLARA (murmurs). God grant him eternal peace!

LENE (also with hands folded). Amen!

AUNT CLARA (continues murmuring). And light everlasting shine for him!

LENE (as before). Amen!

AUNT CLARA (partly to herself). I _should_ have been glad to pay him
the last honor, but it _was_ impossible. What would have become of the
roast? We shall see each other in the next world anyhow. It will not be
_very_ long!

LENE (comforting her). Oh, Miss Clara.

AUNT CLARA (seizes her arm). Don't stand there! Do your work! They will
surely be here directly, (Counts the plac