Manders. Nor can I entirely overlook the difficult—indeed, I may say, painful—position I might possibly be placed in. In the best circles in town the matter of this Orphanage is attracting a great deal of attention. Indeed the Orphanage is to some extent built for the benefit of the town too, and it is to be hoped that it may result in the lowering of our poor-rate by a considerable amount. But as I have been your adviser in the matter and have taken charge of the business side of it, I should be afraid that it would be I that spiteful persons would attack first of all. 

 Mrs. Alving. Yes, you ought not to expose yourself to that. 

 Manders. Not to mention the attacks that would undoubtedly be made upon me in certain newspapers and reviews. 

 Mrs. Alving. Say no more about it, dear Mr. Manders; that quite decides it. 

 Manders. Then you don't wish it to be insured? 

 Mrs. Alving. No, we will give up the idea. 

 Manders (leaning back in his chair). But suppose, now, that some accident happened?—one can never tell—would you be prepared to make good the damage? 

 Mrs. Alving. No; I tell you quite plainly I would not do so under any circumstances. 

 Manders. Still, you know, Mrs. Alving—after all, it is a serious responsibility that we are taking upon ourselves. 

 Mrs. Alving. But do you think we can do otherwise? 

 Manders. No, that's just it. We really can't do otherwise. We ought not to expose ourselves to a mistaken judgment; and we have no right to do anything that will scandalise the community. 

 Mrs. Alving. You ought not to, as a clergyman, at any rate. 

 Manders. And, what is more, I certainly think that we may count upon our enterprise being attended by good fortune—indeed, that it will be under a special protection. 

 Mrs. Alving. Let us hope so, Mr. Manders. 

 Manders. Then we will leave it alone? 

 Mrs. Alving. Certainly. 

 Manders. Very good. As you wish. (Makes a note.) No insurance, then. 

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