Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/237

 Brovik.

I must have an answer to this one question. Am I to pass out of life in such utter poverty?

Solness.

[Seems to struggle with himself; finally he says, in a low but firm voice:] You must pass out of life as best you can.

Brovik.

Then be it so. [He goes up the room.

Solness.

[Following him, half in desperation.] Don't you understand that I cannot help it? I am what I am, and I cannot change my nature!

Brovik.

No, on; I suppose you can't. [Reels and supports himself against the sofa-table.] May I have a glass of water?

Solness.

By all means. [Fills a glass and hands it to him.

Brovik.

Thanks. [Drinks and puts the glass down again. [Solness goes up and opens the door of the draughtsmen's office.

Solness.

Ragnar—you must come and take your father home.

Ragnar rises quickly. He and Kaia come into the work-room.

Ragnar. What is the matter, father?