Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/257

 Solness.

[Leans over the back of the chair and whispers.] Aline has made up her mind that I am mad. That is what she thinks.

Dr. Herdal.

[Rising.] Why, my dear good fellow!

Solness.

Yes, on my soul she does! I tell you it is so. And she has got you to think the same! Oh, I can assure you, doctor, I see it in your face as clearly as possible. You don't take me in so easily, I can tell you.

Dr. Herdal.

[Looks at him in amazement.] Never, Mr. Solness—never has such a thought entered my mind.

Solness.

[With an incredulous smile.] Really? Has it not?

Dr. Herdal.

No, never! Nor your wife's mind either, I am convinced. I could almost swear to that.

Solness.

Well, I wouldn't advise you to. For, in a certain sense, you see, perhaps—perhaps she is not so far wrong in thinking something of the kind.

Dr. Herdal.

Come now, I really must say