Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/96

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Tesman.

Yes, dear—there is no denying—it was adventurous to go and marry and set up house upon mere expectations.

Hedda.

Perhaps you are right there.

Tesman.

Well—at all events, we have our delightful home, Hedda! Fancy, the home we both dreamed of—the home we were in love with, I may almost say. Eh?

Hedda.

[Rising slowly and wearily.] It was part of our compact that we were to go into society—to keep open house.

Tesman.

Yes, if you only knew how I had been looking forward to it! Fancy—to see you as hostess—in a select circle! Eh? Well, well, well—for the present we shall have to get on without society, Hedda—only to invite Aunt Julia now and then.—Oh, I intended you to lead such an utterly different life, dear——!

Hedda.

Of course I cannot have my man in livery just yet.

Tesman.

Oh no, unfortunately. It would be out of the question for us to keep a footman, you know.

Hedda.

And the saddle-horse I was to have had——