Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/36

 Billing.

[Eating.] It is excellent—really first rate.

Mrs. Stockmann.

You know how Stockmann insists on regular meal-hours

Billing.

Oh, I don't mind at all. I almost think I enjoy my supper more when I can sit down to it like this, alone and undisturbed.

Mrs. Stockmann.

Oh, well, if you enjoy it[Listening in the direction of the hall.] I believe this is Mr. Hovstad coming too.

Billing.

Very likely.

Burgomaster Stockmann enters, wearing an overcoat and an official gold-laced cap, and carrying a stick.

Burgomaster.

Good evening, sister-in-law.

Mrs. Stockmann.

[Coming forward into the sitting-room.] Oh, good evening; is it you? It is good of you to look in.

Burgomaster.

I was just passing, and so[Looks towards the drawing-room.] Ah, I see you have company.

Mrs. Stockmann.

[Rather embarrassed.] Oh no, not at all; it's the merest chance. [Hurriedly.] Won't you sit down and have a little supper?