Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/351

 ways been rooted there. But here, in the light of day, here there was a living, warm, human heart that throbbed and glowed for you. And this heart you crushed. Oh worse than that! Ten times worse! You sold it for—for

[Trembles; a cold shudder seems to go through him.] For the kingdom—and the power—and the glory—you mean?

Yes, that's what I mean. I have said it once before to-night: you have murdered the love-life in the woman who loved you. And whom you loved in return, so far as you could love any one. [With uplifted arm.] And therefore I prophesy to you, John Gabriel Borkman—you will never touch the price you demanded for the murder. You will never enter in triumph into your cold, dark kingdom!

[Staggers to the bench and seats himself heavily.] I almost fear your prophecy will come true, Ella.

[Going up to him.] You must not fear it, John. That is the best thing that can happen to you.