Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/153

 Dr. Stockmann.

[In a low tone.] How do you feel, Katrina?

Mrs. Stockmann.

Quite comfortable, thank you. [In a low voice.] Now do keep your temper, Thomas.

Dr. Stockmann.

Oh, I shall keep myself well in hand. [Looks at his watch, ascends the platform, and bows.] It's a quarter past the hour, so I shall begin

[Takes out his MS.

Aslaksen.

But surely a chairman must be elected first.

Dr. Stockmann.

No, that's not at all necessary.

Several Gentlemen.

[Shouting.] Yes, yes.

Burgomaster.

I should certainly say that a chairman ought to be elected.

Dr. Stockmann.

But I've called this meeting to give a lecture, Peter!

Burgomaster.

Dr. Stockmann's lecture may possibly lead to differences of opinion.

Several Voices in the Crowd.

A chairman! A chairman!

Hovstad.

The general voice of the meeting seems to be for a chairman!