Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/378

 Wangel.

I will have you arrested—as a felon! At once! Before you can get on board! I know all about the murder out at Skioldvik.

Ellida.

Oh Wangel,—how can you?

The Stranger.

I was prepared for that move; and therefore,—[Takes a revolver out of his breast pocket],—I have provided myself with this.

Ellida.

[Throws herself before Wangel.] No, no—do not kill him! Rather kill me!

The Stranger.

Neither you nor him; be easy on that score. This is for myself; I will live and die a free man!

Ellida.

[With increasing agitation.] Wangel! Let me tell you this—tell you in his hearing! I know you can keep me here! You have the power, and no doubt you will use it! But my mind—all my thoughts—all my irresistible longings and desires—these you cannot fetter! They will yearn and strain—out into the unknown—that I was created for—and that you have barred against me!

Wangel.

[In quiet grief.] I see it clearly, Ellida! Step by step you are gliding away from me. Your craving for the limitless and the infinite—and for