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 remains standing by the fire. Werle is looking for something on the writing-table, and, appears to wish that Gregers would go; as Gregers does not move, Werle goes towards the door.

Gregers.

Father, won't you stay a moment?

Werle.

[Stops.] What is it?

Gregers.

I must have a word with you.

Werle.

Can it not wait till we are alone?

Gregers.

No, it cannot; for perhaps we shall never be alone together.

Werle.

[Drawing nearer.] What do you mean by that?

[During what follows, the pianoforte is faintly heard from the distant music-room.

Gregers.

How has that family been allowed to go so miserably to the wall?

Werle.

You mean the Ekdals, I suppose.

Gregers.

Yes, I mean the Ekdals. Lieutenant Ekdal was once so closely associated with you.