Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/235



[Looks hardly at him.] Away from your mother? So that is what you want to do?

Of course I'll come out again—to-morrow perhaps.

[With passionate emotion.] You want to go away from me! To be with those strange people! With—with—no, I will not even think of it!

There are bright lights down there, and young, happy faces; and there's music there, mother!

[Pointing upwards.] There is music here, too, Erhart.

Yes, it's just that music that drives me out of the house.

Do you grudge your father a moment of self-forgetfulness?

No, I don't. I'm very, very glad that he should have it—if only I don't have to listen.

[Looking solemnly at him.] Be strong, Erhart! Be strong, my son! Do not forget that you have your great mission.