Aslaksen.
Well—chiefly among the lower middle-class.
Burgomaster.
The small taxpayers form the majority—here as everywhere.
Aslaksen.
That's very true.
Burgomaster.
And I have no doubt that you know the general feeling among them. Am I right?
Aslaksen. Yes, I think I may say that I do, Burgomaster.
Burgomaster.
Well—since our townsfolk of the poorer class appear to be so heroically eager to make sacrifices
Aslaksen. How so?
Hovstad.
Sacrifices?
Burgomaster.
It is a pleasing evidence of public spirit—a most pleasing evidence. I admit it is more than I should quite have expected. But, of course, you know public feeling better than I do.
Aslaksen. Yes but, Burgomaster
Burgomaster.
And assuredly it is no small sacrifice the town will have to make.
