Engstrand. Well, I must tell you I am thinking of taking up a new line now. 

 Regina (whistles). You have tried that so often—but it has always proved a fool's errand. 

 Engstrand. Ah, but this time you will just see, Regina! Strike me dead if— 

 Regina (stamping her foot). Stop swearing! 

 Engstrand. Sh! Sh!—you're quite right, my girl, quite right! What I wanted to say was only this, that I have put by a tidy penny out of what I have made by working at this new Orphanage up here. 

 Regina. Have you? All the better for you. 

 Engstrand. What is there for a man to spend his money on, out here in the country? 

 Regina. Well, what then? 

 Engstrand. Well, you see, I thought of putting the money into something that would pay. I thought of some kind of an eating-house for seafaring folk— 

 Regina. Heavens! 

 Engstrand. Oh, a high-class eating-house, of course—not a pigsty for common sailors. Damn it, no; it would be a place ships' captains and first mates would come to; really good sort of people, you know. 

 Regina. And what should I—? 

 Engstrand. You would help there: But only to make show, you know. You wouldn't find it hard work, I can promise you, my girl. You should do exactly as you liked. 

 Regina. Oh, yes, quite so! 

 Engstrand. But we must have some women in the house; that is as clear as daylight. Because in the evening we must make the place a little attractive—some singing and dancing, and that sort of thing. Remember they are seafolk—wayfarers on the waters of life! (Coming nearer to her.) Now don't be a fool and stand in your own way, Regina. What good are you going to do here? Will this education, that your mistress has paid for, be of any use? You are to look after the children in the new Home, I hear. Is that the sort of work for you? Are you so frightfully anxious to go and wear out your health and strength for the sake of these dirty brats? 

 Regina. No, if things were to go as I want them to, then—. Well, it may 

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