Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/310

 I have a great undertaking in hand, as you have probably heard; and if evil-disposed persons should succeed in shaking people's unqualified confidence in me, it may involve me in the most serious difficulties. I must silence these carping and spiteful scribblers at any cost; and that is why I give you till the day after to-morrow.

Aune.

You might just as well give me till this afternoon, Consul Bernick.

Bernick.

You mean that I am demanding impossibilities?

Aune.

Yes, with the present working staff

Bernick.

Oh, very well;—then we must look about us elsewhere.

Aune.

Would you really turn off still more of the old workmen?

Bernick.

No, that is not what I am thinking of.

Aune.

I'm certain sure, if you did, there would be a fine to-do both in the town and in the newspapers.

Bernick.

Very possibly; therefore I won't do it. But if the Indian Girl is not cleared the day after to-morrow, I shall dismiss you.