All his longings are for things that must for ever remain unattainable to him. But I will create a conscious happiness in his mind.
[He goes once or twice up and down the room. Asta and Rita follow him with their eyes.
Rita.
You should take these things more quietly, Alfred!
Allmers.
[Stops beside the table on the left, and looks at them.] Eyolf shall carry on my life-work—if he wants to. Or he shall choose one that is altogether his own. Perhaps that would be best. At all events, I shall let mine rest as it is.
Rita.
[Rising.] But, Alfred dear, can you not work both for yourself and for Eyolf?
Allmers.
No, I cannot. It is impossible! I cannot divide myself in this matter—and therefore I efface myself. Eyolf shall be the complete man of our race. And it shall be my new life-work to make him the complete man.
Asta.
[Has risen and now goes up to him.] This must have cost you a terribly hard struggle, Alfred?
