Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/55

 Kroll.

No, who would have dreamt of such a thing? In my house, the very home of obedience and order—where one will, and one only, has always prevailed

Rebecca.

How does your wife take all this?

Kroll.

Why, that is the most incredible part of it. My wife, who all her life long has shared my opinions and concurred in my views, both in great things and small—she is actually inclined to side with the children on many points. And she blames me for what has happened. She says I tyrannise over the children. As if it weren't necessary to. Well, you see how my house is divided against itself. But of course I say as little about it as possible. Such things are best kept quiet. [Wanders up the room.] Ah, well, well, well.

[Stands at the window with his hands behind his back, and looks out.

Rebecca.

[Comes up close to Rosmer, and says rapidly and in a low voice, so that the Rector does not hear her.] Do it now!

Rosmer.

[Also in a low voice.] Not this evening.

Rebecca.

[As before.] Yes, just this evening.

[Goes to the table and busies herself with the lamp.