Tesman.
[In an outburst of mingled doubt and joy.] Hedda! Oh, is this true? But—but—I never knew you show your love like that before. Fancy that!
Hedda.
Well, I may as well tell you that—just at this time [Impatiently, breaking off.] No, no; you can ask Aunt Julia. She will tell you, fast enough.
Tesman.
Oh, I almost think I understand you, Hedda! [Clasps his hands together.] Great heavens! do you really mean it! Eh?
Hedda. Don't shout so. The servant might hear.
Tesman.
[Laughing in irrepressible glee.] The servant! Why, how absurd you are, Hedda. It's only my old Berta! Why, I'll tell Berta myself.
Hedda.
[Clenching her hands together in desperation.] Oh, it is killing me,—it is killing me, all this!
Tesman. What is, Hedda? Eh?
Hedda.
[Coldly, controlling herself.] All this—absurdity—George.
Tesman.
Absurdity! Do you see anything absurd in my
