Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/233

 Lyngstrand.

[Looks in bewilderment from one to the other.] I beg your pardon—I don't know this gentleman. It's only. I meant them for a birthday gift, Mrs. Wangel.

Ellida.

A birthday gift? Then you have made a mistake, Mr. Lyngstrand. To-day is not the birthday of any one in this house.

Lyngstrand.

[Smiling quietly.] Oh, I know all about it. But I didn't know it was such a secret.

Ellida.

What is it you know?

Lyngstrand.

That it's your birthday, Mrs. Wangel

Ellida.

Mine?

Arnholm.

[Looking at her inquiringly.] To-day? No, surely not.

Ellida.

[To Lyngstrand.] What has put that into your head?

Lyngstrand.

It was Miss Hilda that let it out. I happened to look in a little while ago, and I asked the young ladies why they had made such a grand display of flowers and flags

Ellida.

Well?