Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 1).pdf/374

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Falk.

You think the occasion good to get it <g>curled</g>?
Well, my good friend, you won't be disappointed;
Go and announce your union to the world!

Lind.

Other reflections also weigh with me,
And one of more especial gravity;
Say that there lurked among our motley band
Some sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;
Say, his attentions became undisguised,—
We should be disagreeably compromised.

Falk.

Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,
You for a higher office were designed,
Love as his young licentiate has retained you;
Shortly you'll get a permanent position;
But it would be defying all tradition
If at the present moment he ordained you.

Lind.

Yes if the merchant does not—

Falk.

                                What of him?

Anna [troubled].

Oh, it is Lind's unreasonable whim.