Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/120

 Tesman.

Oh yes, that will be all right.

Brack.

[Smiling.] And that would perhaps be the safest plan for him.

Hedda.

Why so?

Brack.

Well, you know, Mrs. Tesman, how you used to gird at my little bachelor parties. You declared they were adapted only for men of the strictest principles.

Hedda.

But no doubt Mr. Lövborg's principles are strict enough now. A converted sinner

[Berta appears at the hall door.

Berta.

There's a gentleman asking if you are at home, ma'am

Hedda.

Well, show him in.

Tesman.

[Softly.] I'm sure it is he! Fancy that!

Eilert Lövborg enters from the hall. He is slim and lean; of the same age as Tesman, but looks older and somewhat worn-out. His hair and beard are of a blackish brown, his face long and pale, but with patches of colour on the cheek-*bones. He is dressed in a well-cut black visiting suit, quite new. He has dark gloves and a silk hat. He stops near the door, and makes a rapid bow, seeming somewhat embarrassed.