Olga monologue — The lighting of the Christmas tree

As soon as he has filled the sledge with boughs, for he knows we need him here on Christmas Eve. (_She goes to the window. Sleighbells are heard._) There they are, coming up the drive. We must have some place to put the branches. (_She spreads a cloth on the floor._ RUSTER _steals a drink from his flask. The door opens. Enter_ LILJEKRONA. _He is a tall, finely erect man, clad in a heavy fur coat that is covered with snow. As he takes off his cap, he discloses a mass of light hair brushed back from an unusually high forehead. His face is at once sensitive and strong. He carries a load of boughs._) Well, what an armful you have!