Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/140

 Mrs. Stockmann.

Yes, that's just what you do. I know very well that you are the cleverest man in the town; but you're very easily made a fool of, Thomas. [To Hovstad.] Remember that he loses his post at the Baths if you print what he has written

Aslaksen.

What!

Hovsted.

Well now, really, Doctor

Dr. Stockmann.

[Laughing.] Ha ha! just let them try—! No no, my dear, they'll think twice about that. I have the compact majority behind me, you see!

Mrs. Stockmann.

That's just the misfortune, that you should have such a horrid thing behind you.

Dr. Stockmann.

Nonsense, Katrina;—you go home and look after your house, and let me take care of society. How can you be in such a fright when you see me so confident and happy? [Rubbing his hands and walking up and down.] Truth and the People must win the day; you may be perfectly sure of that. Oh! I can see all our free-souled citizens standing shoulder to shoulder like a conquering army! [Stopping by a chair.] Why, what the devil is that?

Aslaksen.

[Looking at it.] Oh Lord!