Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/278

 Hialmar.

That was only to be expected. If people won't keep their eyes open. Nothing can be done without a real effort, Gina!

Hedvig. [Going towards him.] Shall I fetch you the flute, father?

Hialmar.

No; no flute for me; I want no pleasures in this world. [Pacing about.] Yes, indeed I will work to-morrow; you shall see if I don't. You may be sure I shall work as long as my strength holds out.

Gina.

But my dear good Ekdal, I didn't mean it in that way.

Hedvig.

Father, mayn't I bring in a bottle of beer?

Hialmar.

No, certainly not. I require nothing, nothing [Comes to a standstill.] Beer? Was it beer you were talking about?

Hedvig. [Cheerfully.] Yes, father; beautiful fresh beer.

Hialmar.

Well—since you insist upon it, you may bring in a bottle.

Gina.

Yes, do; and we'll be nice and cosy.

[Hedvig runs towards the kitchen door.