Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/148

 Mrs. Linden.

Is it too late?

Krogstad.

Christina, do you know what you are doing? Yes, you do; I see it in your face. Have you the courage then?

Mrs. Linden.

I need some one to be a mother to, and your children need a mother. You need me, and I—I need you. Nils, I believe in your better self. With you I fear nothing.

Krogstad.

[Seizing her hands.] Thank you—thank you, Christina. Now I shall make others see me as you do.—Ah, I forgot

Mrs. Linden.

[Listening.] Hush! The tarantella! Go! go!

Krogstad.

Why? What is it?

Mrs. Linden.

Don't you hear the dancing overhead? As soon as that is over they will be here.

Krogstad.

Oh yes, I shall go. Nothing will come of this, after all. Of course, you don't know the step I have taken against the Helmers.

Mrs. Linden.

Yes, Nils, I do know.