Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/377

 Aune enters from the right.

Aune.

Asking your pardon, Consul, might I speak to you?

Bernick.

[Turns angrily.] What do you want?

Aune.

I wanted, if I might, to ask you a question, Consul Bernick.

Bernick.

Well, well; be quick. What is it about?

Aune.

I wanted to know if you're still determined—firmly determined—to turn me adrift if the Indian Girl should not be ready for sea to-morrow?

Bernick.

What now? The ship will be ready for sea.

Aune.

Yes—she will. But supposing as she wasn't—should I have to go?

Bernick.

Why ask such useless questions?

Aune.

I want to make quite sure, Consul. Just answer me: should I have to go?

Bernick.

Am I in the habit of changing my mind?