Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/105

 Mrs. Stockmann.

Why, good heavens, Thomas! you're surely not thinking of?

Dr. Stockmann.

What am I not thinking of?

Mrs. Stockmann.

of setting yourself up against your brother, I mean.

Dr. Stockmann.

What the devil would you have me do, if not stick to what is right and true?

Petra.

Yes, that's what I should like to know?

Mrs. Stockmann.

But it will be of no earthly use. If they won't, they won't.

Dr. Stockmann.

Ho-ho, Katrina! just wait a while, and you shall see whether I can fight my battles to the end.

Mrs. Stockmann.

Yes, to the end of getting your dismissal; that is what will happen.

Dr. Stockmann.

Well then, I shall at any rate have done my duty towards the public, towards society—I who am called an enemy of society!

Mrs. Stockmann.

But towards your family, Thomas? Towards us at home? Do you think that is doing your duty towards those who are dependent on you?