with silver stars all over it? Shall they not shine for the first
time to-night?

Laura (smiling). No, there would be no shine in the stars if
mother were not at the dance.

Axel. Very well--I will send our excuses. (Turns to go out.)

Father (still reading). Perhaps it will be better for me to
write. (AXEL stops.)

Mother. Yes, you will do it best.

[MATHILDE comes in, followed by a Servant, who throws the doors
open.]

Mathilde. Breakfast is ready.

Father (taking his wife's arm). Keep your shawl on, my dear; it
is cold in the hall. (They go out.)

Axel (as he offers LAURA his arm and leads her towards the door).
Let me have a word with you, before we follow them!

Laura. But it is breakfast time.

Axel (to MATHILDE, who is standing behind them waiting). Do you
mind going on? (MATHILDE goes out, followed by the Servant. AXEL
turns to LAURA.) Will nothing move you? Go with me to this dance!