Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 10).djvu/71

 Hedda.

That he should send you to town on such an errand—that he does not come himself and look after his friend.

Mrs. Elvsted.

Oh no, no—my husband has no time. And besides, I—I had some shopping to do.

Hedda.

[With a slight smile.] Ah, that is a different matter.

Mrs. Elvsted.

[Rising quickly and uneasily.] And now I beg and implore you, Mr. Tesman—receive Eilert Lövborg kindly if he comes to you! And that he is sure to do. You see you were such great friends in the old days. And then you are interested in the same studies—the same branch of science—so far as I can understand.

Tesman.

We used to be, at any rate.

Mrs. Elvsted.

That is why I beg so earnestly that you—you too—will keep a sharp eye upon him. Oh, you will promise me that, Mr. Tesman—won't you?

Tesman.

With the greatest of pleasure, Mrs. Rysing

Hedda.

Elvsted.

Tesman.

I assure you I shall do all I possibly can for Eilert. You may rely upon me.