HOVSTAD.
Precisely my opinion.
Dr. Stockmann.
A demonstration, you say? But in what way would you demonstrate?
Aslaksen.
Of course with great moderation, Doctor. I always insist upon moderation; for moderation is a citizen's first virtue—at least that's my way of thinking.
Dr. Stockmann.
We all know that, Mr. Aslaksen.
Aslaksen.
Yes, I think my moderation is generally recognised. And this affair of the water-works is very important for us small middle-class men. The Baths bid fair to become, as you might say, a little gold-mine for the town. We shall all have to live by the Baths, especially we house-owners. So we want to support the Baths all we can; and as I am Chairman of the House-owners' Association
Dr. Stockmann.
Well?
Aslaksen.
And as I'm an active worker for the Temperance[1] Society—of course you know, Doctor, that I'm a temperance man?
Dr. Stockmann.
To be sure, to be sure.
- ↑ The word "mådehold," in Norwegian, means both "moderation" and "temperance."
