Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/49

 Kroll.

If matters were to shape so that you took the empty place

Rebecca.

I have the only place I want, Rector.

Kroll.

In fact, yes; but not in

Rebecca.

[Interrupting gravely.] For shame, Rector Kroll. How can you joke about such things?

Kroll.

Oh well, our good Johannes Rosmer very likely thinks he has had more than enough of married life already. But nevertheless

Rebecca.

You are really too absurd, Rector.

Kroll.

Nevertheless. Tell me, Miss West—if you will forgive the question—what is your age?

Rebecca.

I'm sorry to say I am over nine-and-twenty, Rector; I am in my thirtieth year.

Kroll.

Indeed. And Rosmer—how old is he? Let me see: he is five years younger than I am, so that makes him well over forty-three I think it would be most suitable.