M: What's wrong with the children, sir?

　　C: There was nothing wrong with the children, only the governesses. They were completely unable to maintain discipline. Without it, the house cannot be properly run. Please remember that, Fraulein.

　　M: Yes, Sir.

　　C: Every morning you will drill the children in their studies. I will not permit them to dream away their summer holidays. Each afternoon they will march about the ground, breathing deeply. Bedtime is to be strictly observed. No exceptions.

　　M: Excuse me, sir. When do they play?

　　C: You'll see to that they conduct themselves at all time with the utmost orderliness and decorum, I'm placing you in command.

　　M: Yes, sir.

　　(Captain blows his whistle. After slamming of doors, the children appear on the terrace in a line, and then walk down one by one.)

　　C: Now, this is your new governess, Fraulein Maria. As I sound your signals, you will step forward and give your name. You, Fraulein, will listen carefully. Learn their signal so you can call them when you want them.

　　Liesl: Liesl.

　　Frederick: Frederick.

　　Louisa: Louisa.

　　Kurt: Kurt.

　　Bargitta: Bargitta.

　　Marta: Marta.

　　(The youngest girl steps forward.)

　　C: And Gretl. Now, let's see how well you listened.

　　M: Oh, I won't need to whistle for them, Reverend Captain. I mean, I'll use their names. And such lovely names.

　　C: Fraulein, this is a large house. The grounds are very extensive. I will not have anyone shouting. You will take this, please. Learn to use it. The children will help you. Now, when I want you, this is what you will hear.

　　M: No, sir. I'm sorry, sir. I could never answer to a whistle. Whistles are for dogs and cats and other animals but not for children and definitely not for me. It would be too humiliating.

　　C: Fraulein, were you this much trouble at the abbey?