Regina. In a moment, ma'am; it is all ready lit. (Goes out.) 

 Mrs. Alving (going up to OSWALD). Oswald, don't keep anything back from me. 

 Oswald. I don't, mother. (Goes to the table.) It seems to me I have told you a good lot. 

 (REGINA brings the lamp and puts it upon the table.) 

 Mrs. Alving. Regina, you might bring us a small bottle of champagne. 

 Regina. Yes, ma'am. (Goes out.) 

 Oswald (taking hold of his mother's face). That's right; I knew my mother wouldn't let her son go thirsty. 

 Mrs. Alving. My poor dear boy, how could I refuse you anything now? 

 Oswald (eagerly). Is that true, mother? Do you mean it? 

 Mrs. Alving. Mean what? 

 Oswald. That you couldn't deny me anything? 

 Mrs. Alving. My dear Oswald— 

 Oswald. Hush! 

 (REGINA brings in a tray with a small bottle of champagne and two glasses, which she puts on the table.) 

 Regina. Shall I open the bottle? 

 Oswald. No, thank you, I will do it. (REGINA goes out.) 

 Mrs. Alving (sitting clown at the table). What did you mean, when you asked if I could refuse you nothing? 

 Oswald (busy opening the bottle). Let us have a glass first—or two. 

 (He draws the cork, fills one glass and is going to fill the other.) 

 Mrs. Alving (holding her hand over the second glass) No, thanks—not for me. 

 Prev. P 48/70 next