Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/351

 Ballested.

What do you say?—Yes of course it's in honour of the English steamer. It's her last trip this year. But if you want to enjoy the music you mustn't put off too long. [Calls out.] What? [Shakes his head.] Can't hear what you say!

[Ellida, with a shawl over her head, comes in from the left, followed by Dr. Wangel.

Wangel.

But, my dear Ellida, I assure you there is ample time.

Ellida.

No, no,—there is not! He may come at any moment.

Ballested.

[Outside, by the garden fence.] Ah, good evening, Doctor! Good evening, Mrs. Wangel!

Wangel.

[Notices him.] Oh, are you there? Is there to be music to-night again?

Ballested.

Yes. The Musical Society proposes to show what it can do. There's no lack of festive occasions at this season. To-night it's in honour of the Englishman.

Ellida.

The English steamer! Is it in sight already?

Ballested.

Not yet; but you see it comes down the fiord among the islands. It is on you before you know where you are.