Manders. Quite so; we will talk over the matter further. Your project attracts me enormously. But in the meantime go back to the Orphanage and put everything tidy and light the lights, so that the occasion may seem a little solemn. And then we will spend a little edifying time together, my dear Engstrand, for now I am sure you are in a suitable frame of mind. 

 Engstrand. I believe I am, sir, truly. Goodbye, then, Mrs. Alving, and thank you for all your kindness; and take good care of Regina for me. (Wipes a tear from his eye.) Poor Joanna's child—it is an extraordinary thing, but she seems to have grown into my life and to hold me by the heartstrings. That's how I feel about it, truly. (Bows, and goes out.) 

 Manders. Now then, what do you think of him, Mrs Alving! That was quite another explanation that he gave us. 

 Mrs. Alving. It was, indeed. 

 Manders. There, you see how exceedingly careful we ought to be in condemning our fellow-men. But at the same time it gives one genuine pleasure to find that one was mistaken. Don't you think so? 

 Mrs. Alving. What I think is that you are, and always will remain, a big baby, Mr. Manders. 

 Menders. I? 

 Mrs. Alving (laying her hands on his shoulders). And I think that I should like very much to give you a good hug. 

 Manders (drawing beck hastily). No, no, good gracious! What an idea! 

 Mrs. Alving (with a smile). Oh, you needn't be afraid of me. 

 Manders (standing by the table). You choose such an extravagant way of expressing yourself sometimes. Now I must get these papers together and put them in my bag. (Does so.) That's it. And now goodbye, for the present. Keep your eyes open when Oswald comes back. I will come back and see you again presently. 

 (He takes his hat and goes out by the hall door. MRS. ALVING sighs, glances out of the window, puts one or two things tidy in the room and turns to go into the dining-room. She stops in the doorway with a stifled cry.) 

 Mrs. Alving. Oswald, are you still sitting at table! 

 Oswald (from the dining-room). I am only finishing my cigar. 

 Mrs. Alving. I thought you had gone out for a little turn. 

 Prev. P 42/70 next