Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/298

 Mrs. Solness.

Yes, who else should it be but myself?

Solness.

[Involuntarily to himself.] That too!

Mrs. Solness.

As for the old house, I wouldn't mind so much about that. When once misfortune was in the air—why

Solness.

Ah, you are right there. Misfortune will have its way—as the saying goes.

Mrs. Solness.

But it's what came of the fire—the dreadful thing that followed! That is the thing! That, that, that!

Solness.

[Vehemently.] Don't think about that, Aline!

Mrs. Solness.

Ah, that is exactly what I cannot help thinking about. And now, at last, I must speak about it, too; for I don't seem able to bear it any longer. And then never to be able to forgive myself

Solness.

[Exclaiming.] Yourself!

Mrs. Solness.

Yes, for I had duties on both sides—both towards you and towards the little ones. I ought to have hardened myself—not to have let the