Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/154

 Dr. Stockmann.

[Controlling himself.] Very well then; let the meeting have its way.

Aslaksen.

Will not the Burgomaster take the chair?

Three Gentlemen.

[Clapping.] Bravo! Bravo!

Burgomaster.

For reasons you will easily understand, I must decline. But, fortunately, we have among us one whom I think we can all accept. I allude to the president of the House-owners' Association, Mr. Aslaksen.

Many Voices.

Yes, yes! Bravo Aslaksen! Hurrah for Aslaksen!

[Dr. Stockmann takes his MS. and descends from the platform.

Aslaksen.

Since my fellow citizens repose this trust in me, I cannot refuse

[Applause and cheers. Aslaksen ascends the platform.

Billing.

[Writing.] So—"Mr. Aslaksen was elected by acclamation"

Aslaksen.

And now, as I have been called to the chair, I take the liberty of saying a few brief words. I am a quiet, peace-loving man; I am in favour of discreet moderation, and of—and of moderate