Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/200

 Dr. Stockmann. What things?

Burgomaster.

So the whole affair has been a carefully-concocted intrigue. Your recklessly violent onslaught—in the name of truth—upon the leading men of the town

Dr. Stockmann. Well, what of it?

Burgomaster.

It was nothing but a preconcerted requital for that vindictive old Morten Kiil's will.

Dr. Stockmann.

[Almost speechless.] Peter—you are the most abominable plebeian I have ever known in all my born days.

Burgomaster.

All is over between us. Your dismissal is irrevocable—for now we have a weapon against you. [He goes out.

Dr. Stockmann.

Shame! shame! shame! [Calls.] Katrina! The floor must be scrubbed after him! Tell her to come here with a pail—what's her name? confound it—the girl with the smudge on her nose

Mrs. Stockmann.

[In the sitting-room doorway.] Hush, hush Thomas!

Petra.

[Also in the doorway.] Father, here's grandfather; he wants to know if he can speak to you alone.