Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/276

 Mrs. Lynge.

Yes, what became of Dina's parents?

Mrs. Rummel.

Oh, Dorf deserted both wife and child. But Madam was impudent enough to remain here a whole year. She didn't dare to show herself in the theatre again; but she made a living by washing and sewing

Mrs. Holt.

And she tried to set up a dancing-school.

Mrs. Rummel.

Of course it was a failure. What parents could trust their children with such a person? But she could not hold out long; the fine Madam wasn't accustomed to work, you see; some chest trouble set in, and carried her off.

Mrs. Lynge.

What a wretched story!

Mrs. Rummel.

Yes, you may believe it has been a terrible thing for the Bernicks. It is the dark spot on the sun of their happiness, as Rummel once expressed it. So you must never talk of these things in this house again, Mrs. Lynge.

Mrs. Holt.

And, for heaven's sake, don't mention the step-sister either.

Mrs. Lynge.

Yes, by-the-bye, Mrs. Bernick has a step-sister too?