Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/51

 Dr. Stockmann.

We must remember that Peter is a lonely bachelor, poor devil! He has no home to be happy in; only business, business. And then all that cursëd weak tea he goes and pours down his throat! Now then, chairs round the table, boys! Katrina, shan't we have the toddy now?

Mrs. Stockmann.

[Going towards the dining-room.] I am just getting it.

Dr. Stockmann.

And you, Captain Horster, sit beside me on the sofa. So rare a guest as you. Sit down, gentlemen, sit down.

[The men sit round the table; Mrs. Stockmann brings in a tray with kettle, glasses, decanters, etc.

Mrs. Stockmann.

Here you have it: here's arrak, and this is rum, and this cognac. Now, help yourselves.

Dr. Stockmann.

[Taking a glass.] So we will. [While the toddy is being mixed.] And now out with the cigars. Eilif, I think you know where the box is. And Morten, you may fetch my pipe. [The boys go into the room on the right.] I have a suspicion that Eilif sneaks a cigar now and then, but I pretend not to notice. [Calls.] And my smoking-cap, Morten! Katrina, can't you tell him where I left it. Ah, he's got it. [The boys bring in the things.] Now, friends, help yourselves. I stick to my pipe, you know;—this one has been on many a stormy