Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/43

 Rector Kroll.

[In the hall, laying down his stick.] Thanks. Then I am not disturbing you?

Rebecca.

You? How can you ask?

Kroll.

[Comes in.] Amiable as ever. [Looks round.] Is Rosmer upstairs in his room?

Rebecca.

No, he is out walking. He has stayed out rather longer than usual; but he is sure to be in directly. [Motioning him to sit on the sofa.] Won't you sit down till he comes?

Kroll.

[Laying down his hat.] Many thanks. [Sits down and looks about him.] Why, how you have brightened up the old room! Flowers everywhere!

Rebecca.

Mr. Rosmer is so fond of having fresh, growing flowers about him.

Kroll.

And you are too, are you not?

Rebecca.

Yes; they have a delightfully soothing effect on me. We had to do without them though, till lately.

Kroll.

[Nods sadly.] Yes, their scent was too much for poor Beata.