Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/107

 Aslaksen.

[Pale.] You wouldn't do that!

Stensgård.

Yes, I would; and you'll see I can edit a paper so as to appeal to the great public.

Aslaksen.

Then I'll go this instant to Chamberlain Bratsberg

Stensgård.

You? What have you to do with him?

Aslaksen.

What have you to do with him? Do you think I don't know why you are invited here? It's because he is afraid of you, and of what you may do; and you are making capital of that. But if he's afraid of what you may do, he'll be no less afraid of what I may print; and I will make capital of that!

Stensgård.

Would you dare to? A wretched creature like you!

Aslaksen.

I'll soon show you. If your speech is to be kept out of the paper, the Chamberlain shall pay me for keeping it out.

Stensgård.

Try it; just try it! You're drunk, fellow!

Aslaksen.

Only in moderation. But I'll fight like a lion if you try to take my poor crust out of my mouth.