Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/37

 Burgomaster.

I? No, thank you. Good gracious! hot meat in the evening! That wouldn't suit my digestion.

Mrs. Stockmann.

Oh, for once in a way

Burgomaster.

No, no,—much obliged to you. I stick to tea and bread and butter. It's more wholesome in the long run—and rather more economical, too.

Mrs. Stockmann.

[Smiling.] You mustn't think Thomas and I are mere spendthrifts, either.

Burgomaster.

You are not, sister-in-law; far be it from me to say that. [Pointing to the Doctor's study.] Is he not at home?

Mrs. Stockmann.

No, he has gone for a little turn after supper—with the boys.

Burgomaster.

I wonder if that is a good thing to do? [Listening.] There he is, no doubt.

Mrs. Stockmann.

No, that is not he. [A knock.] Come in!

Hovstad enters from the hall.

Mrs. Stockmann.

Ah, it's Mr. Hovstad