Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/42

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people who spring direct from the peasant class never can get over their want of tact.

Mrs. Stockmann.

But why should you care? Surely you and Thomas can share the honour, like brothers.

Burgomaster.

Yes, one would suppose so; but it seems a share of the honour is not enough for some persons.

Mrs. Stockmann.

What nonsense! You and Thomas always get on so well together. [Listening.] There, I think I hear him. [Goes and opens the door to the hall.

Dr. Stockmann.

[Laughing and talking loudly, without.] Here's another visitor for you, Katrina. Isn't it capital, eh? Come in, Captain Horster. Hang your coat on that peg. What! you don't wear an overcoat? Fancy, Katrina, I caught him in the street, and I could hardly get him to come in.

Captain Horster.

Enters and bows to Mrs. Stockmann.

Dr. Stockmann.

[In the doorway.] In with you, boys. They're famishing again! Come along, Captain Horster; you must try our roast beef——

[He forces Horster into the dining-room. Eilif and Morten follow them.

Mrs. Stockmann.

But, Thomas, don't you see——