Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 3).djvu/227



Is that an end I reach by plunging in the mire?

Whoso him humbleth shall go higher! Hooks will not catch, unless they bend.

Man can't be used, unless he perish!

Good God! How can you think I cherish Any such purpose?

Ay, indeed, That's the condition! First to bleed! Your bloodless spirit to put on Man must be first a skeleton!

I would not put the lancet through A very kitten—far less you; But yet I thought no harm were done In leaving just ajar the door That opens, where I went before.

And do you know what you have sought? This, that upon the State's cock-cry I that Ideal should deny For which I until now have fought?

Deny, friend? Who makes such request? Duty is all I bid you follow: