Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/274



Never! I was so absolutely certain of victory.

Well then, why was it that?

[Shrugging his shoulders.] Upon my soul, Ella, it is not so easy to remember one's motives of twenty years ago. I only know that when I used to grapple, silently and alone, with all the great projects I had in my mind, I had something like the feeling of a man who is starting on a balloon-voyage. All through my sleepless nights I was inflating my giant balloon, and preparing to soar away into perilous, unknown regions.

[Smiling.] You, who never had the least doubt of victory?

[Impatiently.] Men are made so, Ella. They both doubt and believe at the same time. [Looking straight before him.] And I suppose that was why I would not take you and yours with me in the balloon.

[Eagerly.] Why, I ask you? Tell me why!

[Without looking at her.] One shrinks from risking what one holds dearest on such a voyage.