Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/271

 now; but it's just like as if she'd growd into the very apple of my eye. It is, indeed.

[He bows and goes out through the hall.

Manders.

Well, what do you say of that man now, Mrs. Alving? That was a very different account of matters, was it not?

Mrs. Alving.

Yes, it certainly was.

Manders.

It only shows how excessively careful one ought to be in judging one's fellow creatures. But what a heartfelt joy it is to ascertain that one has been mistaken! Don't you think so?

Mrs. Alving.

I think you are, and will always be, a great baby, Manders.

Manders.

I?

Mrs. Alving.

[Laying her two hands upon his shoulders.] And I say that I have half a mind to put my arms round your neck, and kiss you.

Manders.

[Stepping hastily back.] No, no! God bless me! What an idea!

Mrs. Alving.

[With a smile.] Oh, you needn't be afraid of me.