Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/369

 Hilda.

I wonder whether one really has not the right! And yet, and yet. Oh! if one could only sleep the whole thing away!

[She lays her arms flat down on the table, rests the left side of her head on her hands, and shuts her eyes.

Solness.

[Turns the arm-chair and sits down at the table.] Had you a cosy, happy home—up there with your father, Hilda?

Hilda.

[Without stirring, answers as if half asleep.] I had only a cage.

Solness.

And you are determined not to go back to it?

Hilda.

[As before.] The wild bird never wants to go into the cage.

Solness.

Rather range through the free air

Hilda.

[Still as before.] The bird of prey loves to range

Solness.

[Lets his eyes rest on her.] If only one had the viking-spirit in life

Hilda.

[In her usual voice; opens her eyes but does not move.] And the other thing? Say what that was!