Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/228

 Manders.

Indeed? I thought you had lived almost exclusively in artistic circles.

Oswald.

So I have.

Manders.

And chiefly among the younger artists?

Oswald.

Yes, certainly.

Manders.

But I thought few of those young fellows could afford to set up house and support a family.

Oswald.

There are many who cannot afford to marry, sir.

Manders.

Yes, that is just what I say.

Oswald.

But they may have a home for all that. And several of them have, as a matter of fact; and very pleasant, well-ordered homes they are, too.

[Mrs. Alving follows with breathless interest; nods, but says nothing.

Manders.

But I'm not talking of bachelors' quarters. By a "home" I understand the home of a family, where a man lives with his wife and children.