Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/222

 Mrs. Alving.

Well now, what do you think of him, Mr. Manders?

Manders. I—I—can it really be?

Oswald. Yes, it's really the Prodigal Son, sir.

Manders. [Protesting.] My dear young friend

Oswald. Well, then, the Lost Sheep Found.

Mrs. Alving.

Oswald is thinking of the time when you were so much opposed to his becoming a painter.

Manders.

To our human eyes many a step seems dubious, which afterwards proves [Wrings his hand.]

But first of all, welcome, welcome home! Do not think, my dear Oswald—I suppose I may call you by your Christian name?

Oswald. What else should you call me?

Manders.

Very good. What I wanted to say was this, my dear Oswald—you must not think that I utterly condemn the artist's calling. I have no doubt there are many who can keep their inner self unharmed in that profession, as in any other.