Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 6).djvu/389

 much. You have stood here too long without the moral support that should have sustained you. I blame myself for not having given you that support sooner.

Dina.

You must not speak now!

Mrs. Bernick.

What is all this?

Rörlund.

It is now that I must speak, Dina, though your conduct yesterday and to-day has made it ten times more difficult for me. But all other considerations must give place to your rescue. You remember the promise I gave you. You remember what you promised to answer, when I found that the time had come. Now I can hesitate no longer, and therefore—[To Johan Tönnesen]—I tell you that this girl, whom you are pursuing, is betrothed to me.

Mrs. Bernick.

What do you say?

Bernick.

Dina!

Johan.

She! Betrothed to?

Martha.

No, no, Dina!

Lona.

A lie!

Johan.

Dina—does that man speak the truth?

Dina.

[After a short pause.] Yes.