Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/147

 Mrs. Stockmann.

[Taking his arm.] Then I'll show them that an—an old woman can be a man for once in a way. For now I'll stand by you, Thomas.

Dr. Stockmann.

Bravely said, Katrina! I swear by my soul and conscience the truth shall out! If they won't let me a hall, I'll hire a drum and march through the town with it; and I'll read my paper at every street corner.

Burgomaster.

You can scarcely be such a raving lunatic as that?

Dr. Stockmann. I am.

Aslaksen.

You would not get a single man in the whole town to go with you.

Billing. No, strike me dead if you would!

Mrs. Stockmann.

Don't give in, Thomas. I'll ask the boys to go with you.

Dr. Stockmann. That's a splendid idea!

Mrs. Stockmann.

Morten will be delighted; and Eilif will go too, I daresay.

Dr. Stockmann.

Yes, and so will Petra! And you yourself, Katrina!