Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/241



And you are to play before the company?

[Biting her lip.] No; at least I am only to play for dancing.

Only for dancing?

Yes; there is to be a dance after supper.

[Stands and looks at her.] Do you like playing dance music? At parties, I mean?

[Putting on her outdoor things.] Yes, when I can get an engagement. I can always earn a little in that way.

[With interest.] Is that the principal thing in your mind as you sit playing for the dancers?

No; I'm generally thinking how hard it is that I mayn't join in the dance myself.

[Nodding.] That is just what I wanted to know. [Moving restlessly about the room.]