Oswald. Oh, well, for me then! (He empties his glass, fills it again and empties it; then sits down at the table.) 

 Mrs. Alving (expectantly). Now, tell me. 

 Oswald (without looking at her). Tell me this; I thought you and Mr. Manders seemed so strange—so quiet—at dinner. 

 Mrs. Alving. Did you notice that? 

 Oswald. Yes. Ahem! (After a short pause.) Tell me—what do you think of Regina? 

 Mrs. Alving. What do I think of her? 

 Oswald. Yes, isn't she splendid! 

 Mrs. Alving. Dear Oswald, you don't know her as well as I do— 

 Oswald. What of that? 

 Mrs. Alving. Regina was too long at home, unfortunately. I ought to have taken her under my charge sooner. 

 Oswald. Yes, but isn't she splendid to look at, mother? (Fills his glass,) 

 Mrs. Alving. Regina has many serious faults— 

 Oswald. Yes, but what of that? (Drinks.) 

 Mrs. Alving. But I am fond of her, all the same; and I have made myself responsible for her. I wouldn't for the world she should come to any harm. 

 Oswald (jumping up). Mother, Regina is my only hope of salvation! 

 Mrs. Alving (getting up). What do you mean? 

 Oswald. I can't go on bearing all this agony of mind alone. 

 Mrs. Alving, Haven't you your mother to help you to bear it? 

 Oswald. Yes, I thought so; that was why I came home to you. But it is no use; I see that it isn't. I cannot spend my life here. 

 Mrs. Alving. Oswald! 

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