Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/364

 Arnholm.

Well, well—if you feel absolutely sure that you cannot—then the relation between us remains unaltered, my dear Boletta.

Boletta.

How do you mean?

Arnholm.

Of course I stand to my proposition, none the less. I will take care that you get away from home and see something of the world. I will enable you to learn what you really want to, and live in security and independence. Your more distant future, too, I will provide for, Boletta. In me you will always have a firm, steadfast friend to rely upon. Be sure of that!

Boletta.

Oh dear—Mr. Arnholm—all this has become quite impossible now.

Arnholm.

Is this impossible too?

Boletta.

Yes, surely you can see it is! After what you have said to me—and after the answer I have given you. Oh, you must surely understand that I cannot accept such great favours from you! I can accept nothing in the world from you; never after this!

Arnholm.

Then would you rather stay at home here and let life slip away from you?