Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/371

 Bernick.

As these properties now lie, they are as good as worthless to their scattered owners; so they have sold comparatively cheap. If the purchaser had waited until the branch line was known to be in contemplation, the vendors would have demanded fancy prices.

Lona.

Very likely; but what then?

Bernick.

Now comes the point which may or may not be interpreted favourably—a risk which no man in our community could afford to incur, unless he had a spotless and honoured name to rely upon.

Lona.

Well?

Bernick.

It is I who have bought up the whole.

Lona.

You?

Johan.

On your own account?

Bernick.

On my own account. If the branch line is made, I am a millionaire; if not, I am ruined.

Lona.

This is a great risk, Karsten.

Bernick.

I have staked all I possess upon the throw.