Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/48

 Dr. Stockmann.

[Standing still.] The fact is, Peter, I really cannot tell you just now; not this evening, at all events. There may prove to be a great deal that is unusual in the circumstances. On the other hand, there may be nothing at all. Very likely it's only my fancy.

Burgomaster.

Upon my word, you are very enigmatical. Is there anything in the wind? Anything I am to be kept in the dark about? I should think, as Chairman of the Bath Committee

Dr. Stockmann.

And I should think that I Well, well, don't let us get our backs up, Peter.

Burgomaster.

God forbid! I am not in the habit of "getting my back up," as you express it. But I must absolutely insist that all arrangements shall be made and carried out in a businesslike manner, and through the properly constituted authorities. I cannot be a party to crooked or underhand courses.

Dr. Stockmann.

Have I ever been given to crooked or underhand courses?

Burgomaster.

At any rate you have an ingrained propensity to taking your own course. And that, in a well-ordered community, is almost as inadmissible. The individual must subordinate himself to society, or,