Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 1).pdf/78

 whither he goes! You are setting at naught the harsh decree that forbids you to harbour or succour the outlaw

Enough, I say!

You mistake, Elina—'tis no outlaw I look for.

[Rises.] Then I have understood you ill indeed.

Listen to me, my child; but think as you listen; if indeed you can tame that wild spirit of yours.

I am tame, till you have spoken.

Attend, then, to what I have to tell you.—I have sought, so far as lay in my power, to keep you in ignorance of all our griefs and miseries. What could it avail to fill your young heart with wrath and care? 'Tis not women's weeping and wailing that can deliver us; we need the courage and strength of men.

Who has told you that, when courage and strength are needed, I shall be found wanting?

Hush, child;—I might take you at your word.