Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/81

 ASLAKSEN.

Is it true, what Mr. Billing tells me, that you're going to get us a better set of water-works?

Dr. Stockmann.

Yes, for the Baths.

ASLAKSEN.

Of course, of course. Then I just looked in to say that I'll back up the movement with all my might.

Hovstad.

[To the Doctor.] You see!

Dr. Stockmann.

I'm sure I thank you heartily; but

ASLAKSEN.

You may find it no such bad thing to have us small middle-class men at your back. We form what you may call a compact majority in the town—when we really make up our minds, that's to say. And it's always well to have the majority with you, Doctor.

Dr. Stockmann.

No doubt, no doubt; but I can't conceive that any special measures will be necessary in this case. I should think in so clear and straightforward a matter

ASLAKSEN.

Yes, but all the same, it can do no harm. I know the local authorities very well—the powers that be are not over ready to adopt suggestions from outsiders. So I think it wouldn't be amiss if we made some sort of a demonstration.