Regina. But, dear Mr. Manders—at any rate don't forget me, in case— 

 Manders (getting up). No, I won't forget you, Miss Engstrand. 

 Regina. Because, if I— 

 Manders. Perhaps you will be so kind as to let Mrs. Alving know I am here? 

 Regina. I will fetch her at once, Mr. Manders. (Goes out to the left. MANDERS walks up and down the room once or twice, stands for a moment at the farther end of the room with his hands behind his back and looks out into the garden. Then he comes back to the table, takes up a book and looks at the title page, gives a start, and looks at some of the others.) 

 Manders. Hm!—Really! 

 (MRS. ALVING comes in by the door on the left. She is followed by REGINA, who goes out again at once through the nearer door on the right.) 

 Mrs. Alving (holding out her hand). I am very glad to see you, Mr. Manders. 

 Manders. How do you do, Mrs. Alving. Here I am, as I promised. 

 Mrs. Alving. Always punctual! 

 Manders. Indeed, I was hard put to it to get away. What with vestry meetings and committees. 

 Mrs. Alving. It was all the kinder of you to come in such good time; we can settle our business before dinner. But where is your luggage? 

 Manders (quickly). My things are down at the village shop. I am going to sleep there tonight. 

 Mrs. Alving (repressing a smile). Can't I really persuade you to stay the night here this time? 

 Manders. No, no; many thanks all the same; I will put up there, as usual. It is so handy for getting on board the boat again. 

 Mrs. Alving. Of course, you shall do as you please. But it seems to me quite another thing, now we are two old people— 

 Manders. Ha! ha! You will have your joke! And it's natural you should be in high spirits today—first of all there is the great event tomorrow, and also you have got Oswald home. 

 Mrs. Alving. Yes, am I not a lucky woman! It is more than two years since he was home last, and he has promised to stay the 

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