MRS. SOLNESS.

Very well, then I won't say it, Halvard.

SOLNESS.

But I stick to what _I_ said. You'll see that things will be easier for you in the new place.

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh, heavens--easier for me--!

SOLNESS.

[Eagerly.] Yes, indeed they will! You may be quite sure of that! For you see--there will be so very, very much there that will remind you of your own home--

MRS. SOLNESS.

The home that used to be father's and mother's--and that was burnt to the ground--

SOLNESS.

[In a low voice.] Yes, yes, my poor Aline. That was a terrible blow for you.

MRS. SOLNESS.

[Breaking out in lamentation.] You may build as much as ever you like, Halvard--you can never build up again a real home for me!

SOLNESS.

[Crosses the room.] Well, in Heaven's name, let us talk no more about it then.

MRS. SOLNESS.

We are not in the habit of talking about it. For you always put the thought away from you--

SOLNESS.

[Stops suddenly and looks at her.] Do I? And why should I do that? Put the thought away from me?

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh yes, Halvard, I understand you very well. You are so anxious to spare me--and to find excuses for me too--as much as ever you can.

SOLNESS.

[With astonishment in his eyes.] You! Is it you--yourself, that your are talking about, Aline?

MRS. SOLNESS.

Yes, who else should it be but myself?

SOLNESS.

[Involuntarily to himself.] That too!

MRS. SOLNESS.

As for the old house, I wouldn't mind so much about that. When once misfortune was in the air--why--

SOLNESS.

Ah, you are right there. Misfortune will have its way--as the saying goes.

MRS. SOLNESS.

But it's what came of the fire--the dreadful thing that followed--! That is the thing! That, that, that!

SOLNESS.

[Vehemently.] Don't think about that, Aline!

MRS. SOLNESS.

Ah, that is exactly what I cannot help thinking about. And now, at last, I must speak about it, too; for I don't seem to be able to bear it any longer. And then never to be able to forgive myself--

SOLNESS.

[Exclaiming.] Yourself--!