[Harshly.] I won't have any thanks! Tell him that from me.

KAIA.

Yes, I will--

SOLNESS.

And tell him at the same time that henceforward I do not require his services--nor yours either.

KAIA.

[Softly and quiveringly.] Not mine either?

SOLNESS.

You will have other things to think of now, and to attend to; and that is a very good thing for you. Well, go home with the drawings now, Miss Fosli. At once! Do you hear?

KAIA.

[As before.] Yes, Mr. Solness. [She goes out.

MRS. SOLNESS.

Heavens! what deceitful eyes she has.

SOLNESS.

She? That poor little creature?

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh--I can see what I can see, Halvard.----Are you really dismissing them?

SOLNESS.

Yes.

MRS. SOLNESS.

Her as well?

SOLNESS.

Was not that what you wished?

MRS. SOLNESS.

But how can you get on without her--? Oh well, no doubt you have some one else in reserve, Halvard.

HILDA.

[Playfully.] Well, _I_ for one am not the person to stand at a desk.

SOLNESS.

Never mind, never mind--it will be all right, Aline. Now all you have to do is think about moving into our new home--as quickly as you can. This evening we will hang up the wreath--[Turns to HILDA.] What do you say to that, Miss Hilda?

HILDA.

[Looks at him with sparkling eyes.] It will be splendid to see you so high up once more.

SOLNESS.

Me!

MRS. SOLNESS.

For Heaven's sake, Miss w.a.n.gel, don't imagine such a thing! My husband!--when he always gets so dizzy!

HILDA.

He get dizzy! No, I know quite well he does not!

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh yes, indeed he does.

HILDA.