Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/86

 clothes. Pauses.] But? No, it's impossible! Why, I did it for love!

Children.

[At the door, left.] Mamma, the strange man has gone now.

Nora.

Yes, yes, I know. But don't tell any one about the strange man. Do you hear? Not even papa!

Children.

No, mamma; and now will you play with us again?

Nora.

No, no; not now.

Children.

Oh, do, mamma; you know you promised.

Nora.

Yes, but I can't just now. Run to the nursery; I have so much to do. Run along, run along, and be good, my darlings! [She pushes them gently into the inner room, and closes the door behind them. Sits on the sofa, embroiders a few stitches, but soon pauses.] No! [Throws down the work, rises, goes to the hall door and calls out.] Ellen, bring in the Christmas-tree! [Goes to table, left, and opens the drawer; again pauses.] No, it's quite impossible!

Ellen.

[With Christmas-tree.] Where shall I stand it, ma'am?

Nora.

There, in the middle of the room.