Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/372

 Lona.

I was not thinking of the money; but when it comes out that

Bernick.

Yes, that is the great point. With the unblemished reputation I have hitherto borne, I can take the whole affair upon my shoulders and carry it through, saying to my fellow citizens, "See, this I have ventured for the good of the community!"

Lona.

Of the community?

Bernick.

Yes; and not a soul will question my motives.

Lona.

Then there are some people, it seems, who have acted more openly than you, with no private interests, no ulterior designs.

Bernick.

Who?

Lona.

Why, Rummel and Sandstad and Vigeland, of course.

Bernick.

To make sure of their support, I had to let them into the secret.

Lona.

And they?

Bernick.

They have stipulated for a fifth of the profits.

Lona

Oh, these pillars of society!