Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/177

 Dr. Stockmann.

[To the people hooting.] Ah, fools that you are! I tell you that

Aslaksen.

[Ringing.] The Doctor is out of order in speaking. A formal vote must be taken; but out of consideration for personal feelings, it will be taken in writing and without names. Have you any blank paper, Mr. Billing?

Billing. Here's both blue and white paper

Aslaksen.

Capital; that will save time. Cut it up into slips. That's it. [To the meeting.] Blue means no, white means aye. I myself will go round and collect the votes.

[The Burgomaster leaves the room. Aslaksen and a few others go round with pieces of paper in hats.

A Gentleman.

[To Hovstad.] What can be the matter with the Doctor? What does it all mean?

Hovstad.

Why, you know what a hare-brained creature he is.

Another Gentleman.

[To Billing.] I say, you're often at his house. Have you ever noticed if the fellow drinks?

Billing. Strike me dead if I know what to say. The