Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/284

 Hilda.

I have known it all along. Why do you ask me that?

Solness.

[Lightly.] Oh, well, it just occurred to me. [Looks earnestly at her, and says in a low voice.] What have you come for?

Hilda.

I want my kingdom. The time is up.

Solness.

[Laughs involuntarily.] What a girl you are!

Hilda.

[Gaily.] Out with my kingdom, Mr. Solness! [Raps with her fingers.] The kingdom on the table!

Solness.

[Pushing the rocking-chair nearer and sitting down.] Now, seriously speaking—what have you come for? What do you really want to do here?

Hilda.

Oh, first of all, I want to go round and look at all the things that you have built.

Solness.

That will give you plenty of exercise.

Hilda.

Yes, I know you have built a tremendous lot.

Solness.

I have indeed—especially of late years.