Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/286

 Oswald.

Oh, what does that matter?

[He drinks again.

Mrs. Alving.

But I am fond of her, nevertheless, and I am responsible for her. I wouldn't for all the world have any harm happen to her.

Oswald.

[Springs up.] Mother, Regina is my only salvation!

Mrs. Alving.

[Rising.] What do you mean by that?

Oswald.

I cannot go on bearing all this anguish of soul alone.

Mrs. Alving.

Have you not your mother to share it with you?

Oswald.

Yes; that's what I thought; and so I came home to you. But that will not do. I see it won't do. I cannot endure my life here.

Mrs. Alving.

Oswald!

Oswald.

I must live differently, mother. That is why I must leave you. I will not have you looking on at it.

Mrs. Alving.

My unhappy boy! But, Oswald, while you are so ill as this