Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 7).djvu/88

 Nora.

Yes.

Helmer.

And you were to do it as if of your own accord? You were to say nothing to me of his having been here. Didn't he suggest that too?

Nora.

Yes, Torvald; but

Helmer.

Nora, Nora! And you could condescend to that! To speak to such a man, to make him a promise! And then to tell me an untruth about it!

Nora.

An untruth!

Helmer.

Didn't you say that nobody had been here?

[Threatens with his finger.] My little bird must never do that again! A song-bird must sing clear and true; no false notes. [Puts his arm round her.] That's so, isn't it? Yes, I was sure of it.

[Lets her go.] And now we'll say no more about it. [Sits down before the fire.] Oh, how cosy and quiet it is here! [Glances into his documents.

Nora.

[Busy with the tree, after a short silence.] Torvald!

Helmer.

Yes.

Nora.

I'm looking forward so much to the Stenborgs' fancy ball the day after to-morrow.