Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/122

 Selma.

[Calls from the circle.] Learned judge, what shall the owner of this forfeit do?

Erik.

[Unnoticed, to Heire.] It's Stensgård's! Think of something amusing.

Heire.

That forfeit? Hee-hee, let me see; he might, for example—yes—he shall make a speech!

Selma.

It's Mr. Stensgård's forfeit.

Erik.

Mr. Stensgård is to make a speech.

Stensgård.

Oh no, spare me that; I came off badly enough last night.

The Chamberlain.

Excellently, Mr. Stensgård; I know something of public speaking.

Lundestad.

[To Heire.] If only he doesn't put his foot in it now.

Heire.

Put his foot in it? Hee-hee! You're a sharp one! That's an inspiration! [In an undertone to Stensgård.] If you came off badly last night, why not put yourself right again to-night?

Stensgård.

[Seized with a sudden idea.] Lundestad, here is the opportunity!