Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 4).djvu/298

 I'm not the person you seem to think me.— You look at my fingers: What see you in them?

A nail-system somewhat extremely developed.

And now? You are casting a glance at my feet?

[Pointing.]

That's a natural hoof?

So I flatter myself.

[Raises his hat.]

I'd have taken my oath you were simply a parson; And I find I've the honour. Well, best is best;— When the hall door stands wide,—shun the kitchen way; When the king's to be met with,—avoid the lackey.

Your hand! You appear to be free from prejudice. Say on then, my friend; in what way can I serve you? Now you mustn't ask me for wealth or power; I couldn't supply them although I should hang for it. You can't think how slack the whole business is;— Transactions have dwindled most pitiably. Nothing doing in souls; only now and again A stray one