Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/126

 Rebecca.

And because of this miserable figment of the brain, you will let slip the hold you were beginning to take upon the living world?

Rosmer.

You may well think it hard. Yes, hard, Rebecca. But I have no choice. How could I ever leave this behind me?

Rebecca.

[Behind his chair.] By entering into new relations.

Rosmer.

[Surprised, looks up.] New relations?

Rebecca.

Yes, new relations to the outside world. Live, work, act. Don't sit here brooding and groping among insoluble enigmas.

Rosmer.

[Rises.] New relations? [Walks across the floor, stops at the door and then comes back.] One question occurs to me. Has it not occurred to you too, Rebecca?

Rebecca.

[Drawing breath with difficulty.] Let me—hear—what it is?

Rosmer.

What form do you think our relations will take after to-day?

Rebecca.

I believe our friendship will endure—come what may.