Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/291

 Bernick.

The cargo keep her afloat! These gentlemen know very well that, if anything should happen, that cargo will send her to the bottom like a stone.

Rörlund.

Ay, this shows the state of things in these vaunted great nations.

Bernick.

You are right there—even human life counts for nothing when dollars are at stake. [To Krap.] Can the Indian Girl be ready for sea in four or five days?

Krap.

Yes, if Mr. Vigeland will agree to let the Palm Tree stand over in the meantime.

Bernick.

H'm—he will scarcely agree to that. Oh, just look through the mail, please. By the way, did you see Olaf down on the pier?

Krap.

No, Consul. [He goes into Consul's office.

Bernick.

[Looking again at the telegram.] These gentlemen think nothing of risking the lives of eighteen men

Hilmar.

Well, it's a sailor's calling to brave the elements. It must brace up your nerves to feel that you have only a thin plank between you and eternity