Act II, Scene 2 Summary

Captain Horster is in his house, tidying up the kitchen when Billing enters. Horster has agreed to hold a public meeting in his house. Even though he's not political himself, Horster has traveled to many countries that don't allow people to speak publicly about unpopular things. Horster doesn't have an opinion on the current water contamination controversy. Members of the town begin to enter for the meeting. Catherine and Petra enter. Catherine wonders why the people outside don't come in. Horster assumes they're waiting for the Mayor. Billing tells Catherine that the meeting will prove to not be a place for ladies. She asks him why he printed the Mayor's editorial and not her husband's report. She is upset—everyone on the street is against him.

Peter enters the gathering. Apparently Tom is rounding up more people for...