Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/219

 Hedda.

[Returns his look.] Yes, perhaps. [She crosses to the writing-table. Suppressing an involuntary smile, she imitates Tesman's intonations.] Well? Are you getting on, George? Eh?

Tesman.

Heaven knows, dear. In any case it will be the work of months.

Hedda.

[As before.] Fancy that! [Passes her hands softly through Mrs. Elvsted's hair.] Doesn't it seem strange to you, Thea? Here are you sitting with Tesman—just as you used to sit with Eilert Lövborg?

Mrs. Elvsted.

Ah, if I could only inspire your husband in the same way!

Hedda.

Oh, that will come too—in time.

Tesman.

Yes, do you know, Hedda—I really think I begin to feel something of the sort. But won't you go and sit with Brack again?

Hedda.

Is there nothing I can do to help you two?

Tesman.

No, nothing in the world. [Turning his head.] I trust to you to keep Hedda company, my dear Brack!

Brack.

[With a glance at Hedda.] With the very greatest of pleasure.