Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/240

 there is only one person I care for now! One, and one only, in all the world! I shall never care for any one else.

Solness. Yes, you say that. And yet you go away from me—leave me alone here with everything on my hands.

Kaia. But could I not stay with you, even if Ragnar?

Solness. [Repudiating the idea.] No, no, that is quite impossible. If Ragnar leaves me and starts work on his own account, then of course he will need you himself.

Kaia. [Wringing her hands.] Oh, I feel as if I could not be separated from you! It's quite, quite impossible!

Solness. Then be sure you get those foolish notions out of Ragnar's head. Marry him as much as you please—[Alters his tone.] I mean—don't let him throw up his good situation with me. For then I can keep you too, my dear Kaia.

Kaia. Oh yes, how lovely that would be, if it could only be managed!

Solness. [Clasps her head with his two hands and whispers.] For I cannot get on without you, you see. I must have you with me every single day.