Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 3).djvu/137



Gazing a while before him: then bursts out.]

Before—or now,—when did I stray?

comes out with a cloak over her shoulders and the child in her arms; does not see her; she is about to speak, but stands petrified ''with terror at the look in his face. At the same'' moment comes in hastily through the ''garden-gate. The sun is setting.''

Hark, priest, you have a foe!

[Clenching his hand against his breast.]

Yes, here!

Watch well the Mayor. The seed you sow Sprang ever bravely into ear, Till blighting slanders laid it low. With meaning hints he has implied That by-and-by this house would lack A tenant, and you'd turn your back, The day your wealthy mother died.

And if it were so

Priest, I know you; Know, why these poisonous tales are rife; You stood against him still at strife; He could not bend your purpose;—lo, you, That's what these slanders signified