Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/228

 chair, places the portfolios on the table by the sofa, and approaches the desk again. Kaia goes on writing without intermission, but seems nervous and uneasy.

Solness.

[Aloud.] What is that you are entering, Miss Fosli?

Kaia.

[Starts.] Oh, it is only something that

Solness.

Let me look at it, Miss Fosli. [Bends over her, pretends to be looking into the ledger, and whispers:] Kaia!

Kaia.

[Softly, still writing.] Well?

Solness.

Why do you always take that shade off when I come?

Kaia.

[As before.] I look so ugly with it on.

Solness.

[Smiling.] Then you don't like to look ugly, Kaia?

Kaia.

[Half glancing up at him.] Not for all the world. Not in your eyes.

Solness.

[Strokes her hair gently.] Poor, poor little Kaia