REGINA. [Open-mouthed.] You want me--? What are you talking about? 

ENGSTRAND. I want you to come home with me, I say. 

REGINA. [Scornfully.] Never in this world shall you get me home with you. 

ENGSTRAND. Oh, we'll see about that. 

REGINA. Yes, you may be sure we'll see about it! Me, that have been brought up by a lady like Mrs. Alving! Me, that am treated almost as a daughter here! Is it me you want to go home with you?--to a house like yours? For shame! 

ENGSTRAND. What the devil do you mean? Do you set yourself up against your father, you hussy? 

REGINA. [Mutters without looking at him.] You've said often enough I was no concern of yours. 

ENGSTRAND. Pooh! Why should you bother about that-- 

REGINA. Haven't you many a time sworn at me and called me a--? _Fi donc_! 

ENGSTRAND. Curse me, now, if ever I used such an ugly word. 

REGINA. Oh, I remember very well what word you used. 

ENGSTRAND. Well, but that was only when I was a bit on, don't you know? Temptations are manifold in this world, Regina. 

REGINA. Ugh! 

ENGSTRAND. And besides, it was when your mother was that aggravating--I had to find something to twit her with, my child. She was always setting up for a fine lady. [Mimics.] "Let me go, Engstrand; let me be. Remember I was three years in Chamberlain Alving's family at Rosenvold." [Laughs.] Mercy on us! She could never forget that the Captain was made a Chamberlain while she was in service here. 

REGINA. Poor mother! you very soon tormented her into her grave. 

ENGSTRAND. [With a twist of his shoulders.] Oh, of course! I'm to have the blame for everything. 

REGINA. [Turns away; half aloud.] Ugh--! And that leg too! 

ENGSTRAND. What do you say, my child? 

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