Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/407

 looks at it. Gina, with brush and duster, comes from the sitting-room. Hedvig hastily lays down the pistol, unobserved.

Gina.

Don't stand raking amongst father's things, Hedvig.

Hedvig.

[Goes away from the bookcase.] I was only going to tidy up a little.

Gina.

You'd better go into the kitchen, and see if the coffee's keeping hot; I'll take his breakfast on a tray, when I go down to him.

[Hedvig goes out. Gina begins to sweep and clean up the studio. Presently the passage door is opened with hesitation, and Hialmar Ekdal looks in. He has on his overcoat, but not his hat; he is unwashed, and his hair is dishevelled and unkempt. His eyes are dull and heavy.

Gina.

[Standing with the brush in her hand, and looking at him.] Oh, there now, Ekdal—so you've come after all?

Hialmar.

[Comes in and answers in a toneless voice.] I come—only to depart again immediately.

Gina.

Yes, yes, I suppose so. But, Lord help us! what a sight you are!

Hialmar.

A sight?