Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 8).djvu/84

 Dr. Stockmann.

[Shaking his hand.] I can't tell you, my dear Mr. Aslaksen, how heartily it delights me to find so much support among my fellow townsmen. I'm so happy—so happy! Come, you'll have a glass of sherry? Eh?

Aslaksen.

No, thank you; I never touch spirituous liquors.

Dr. Stockmann.

Well, then, a glass of beer—what do you say to that?

Aslaksen.

Thanks, not that either, Doctor. I never take anything so early in the day. And now I'll be off round the town, and talk to some of the house-owners, and prepare public opinion.

Dr. Stockmann.

It's extremely kind of you, Mr. Aslaksen; but I really cannot get it into my head that all these preparations are necessary. The affair seems to me so simple and self-evident.

Aslaksen.

The authorities always move slowly, Doctor—God forbid I should blame them for it

Hovstad.

We'll stir them up in the paper to-morrow, Aslaksen.

Aslaksen.

No violence, Mr. Hovstad. Proceed with moderation, or you'll do nothing with them. Take