Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/173

 in having forgiven his wife—honestly forgiven her, from the bottom of his heart. She becomes his property in a double sense. She is as though born again; she has become, so to speak, at once his wife and his child. That is what you shall henceforth be to me, my bewildered, helpless darling. Don't be troubled about anything, Nora; only open your heart to me, and I will be both will and conscience to you. [Nora enters in everyday dress.] Why, what's this? Not gone to bed? You have changed your dress?

Nora.

Yes, Torvald; now I have changed my dress.

Helmer.

But why now, so late?

Nora.

I shall not sleep to-night.

Helmer.

But, Nora dear

Nora.

[Looking at her watch.] It's not so late yet. Sit down, Torvald; you and I have much to say to each other. [She sits at one side of the table.

Helmer.

Nora—what does this mean? Your cold, set face

Nora.

Sit down. It will take some time. I have much to talk over with you.

[Helmer sits at the other side of the table.