Hedda.
[Returns his look.] Yes, perhaps. [She crosses to the writing-table. Suppressing an involuntary smile, she imitates Tesman's intonations.] Well? Are you getting on, George? Eh?
Tesman.
Heaven knows, dear. In any case it will be the work of months.
Hedda.
[As before.] Fancy that! [Passes her hands softly through Mrs. Elvsted's hair.] Doesn't it seem strange to you, Thea? Here are you sitting with Tesman—just as you used to sit with Eilert Lövborg?
Mrs. Elvsted.
Ah, if I could only inspire your husband in the same way!
Hedda.
Oh, that will come too—in time.
Tesman.
Yes, do you know, Hedda—I really think I begin to feel something of the sort. But won't you go and sit with Brack again?
Hedda.
Is there nothing I can do to help you two?
Tesman.
No, nothing in the world. [Turning his head.] I trust to you to keep Hedda company, my dear Brack!
Brack.
[With a glance at Hedda.] With the very greatest of pleasure.