Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/176



I cannot think otherwise. All the old hovels ought to be torn down.

And then what is to become of all the poor people?

They must go somewhere else.

And the children, too?

Does it make much difference where they go to the dogs?

[Quietly and reproachfully.] You are forcing yourself into this harshness, Alfred.

[Vehemently.] I have a right to be harsh now! It is my duty.

Your duty?

My duty to Eyolf. He must not lie unavenged. Once for all, Rita—it is as I tell you! Think it over! Have the whole place down there razed to the ground—when I am gone.