Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/115

 understand. And that in every possible department! Such endless vistas have opened out before me to-day. I am not quite clear about everything yet, but I shall see my way presently. It's young and vigorous standard-bearers we must look for, my friends; we must have new captains at all the outposts.

Billing.

Hear, hear!

Dr. Stockmann.

And if only we hold together, it will go so smoothly, so smoothly! The whole revolution will glide off the stocks just like a ship. Don't you think so?

Hovstad.

For my part, I believe we have now every prospect of placing our municipal affairs in the right hands.

Aslaksen.

And if only we proceed with moderation, I really don't think there can be any danger.

Dr. Stockmann.

Who the devil cares whether there's danger or not! What I do, I do in the name of truth and for conscience' sake.

Hovstad.

You are a man to be backed up, Doctor.

Aslaksen.

Yes, there's no doubt the Doctor is a true friend to the town; he's what I call a friend of society.