Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/248

 that's just it. That is the curse we exceptional, chosen people have to bear. The common herd—the average man and woman—they do not understand us, Vilhelm.

[With resignation.] If it were only the lack of understanding—with a little patience, one could manage to wait for that awhile yet. [''His voice choked with tears.''] But there is something still bitterer.

[Vehemently.] There is nothing bitterer than that.

Yes, there is, John Gabriel. I have gone through a domestic scene to-night—just before I started.

Indeed? What about?

[With an outburst.] My people at home—they despise me.

[Indignantly.] Despise!

[Wiping his eyes.] I have long known it; but to-day it came out unmistakably.