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 comfort. (At the door.) Tell your wife to tidy up the place. (Leaves.)

Let her only tell me the truth. The plain truth. (A long silence.)

Come in. Come in. Your father won't beat you. (Pause.) Go in, I tell you. (Pushes Rifkele into the room. Rifkele has a shawl over her head. She stands silent and motionless at the door, a shameless look in her eyes, biting her lips.) Well, what are you standing there for, my darling? Much pleasure you've brought us ... in return for our trouble in bringing you up. We'll square that with you later. (Interrupting herself.) Get into your room. Comb your hair. Put on a dress. We're expecting guests. (To Yekel.) I just met Reb Ali. He's going for the groom's father. (Looks about the room.) Goodness me! How the place looks! (She begins hastily to place things in order.)

, seeing Rifkele, fastens his gaze upon her, approaches her, takes her gently by the hand and leads her to the table.

Don't be afraid. I'll not hurt you. (He sits down.) Sit down here beside me. (Pushes a chair toward her.) Sit down.