Mrs. Knobbe monologue (Act 1) — The Dramatic Works of Gerhart Hauptmann, Volume II

[_Disregarding these words except by a proud toss of the head._] To my great regret I caused a certain amount of disturbance in the yard. From the yard as a place of vantage it is possible to command every window and I made inquiries of the poor cigar maker in the second story and of the consumptive little seamstress in the third as to whether my Selma and my little son were with either of them. But nothing is farther from my intention than to create a scandal. I want you to know--- for I am quite conscious of being in the presence of a distinguished, indeed, of a famous man--you are to know that where Helfgott Gundofried is concerned I am obliged to be strictly on my guard! [_With quivering voice and an occasional application of her handkerchief to her eyes._] I am an unfortunate woman who is pursued by fate, who has sunk low but who has seen better days. I do not care to bore you with my troubles. But I am being pursued and there are those who would rob me of my last hope.