Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/66

 Kroll.

Very likely. But I disclaim any closer acquaintanceship.

Brendel.

Well, well! Nach Belieben, Herr Doctor. It's all one to me. Ulric Brendel remains the man he is for all that.

Rebecca.

You are on your way into town, Mr. Brendel?

Brendel.

You have hit it, gracious lady. At certain intervals, I am constrained to strike a blow for existence. It goes against the grain; but—enfin—imperious necessity

Rosmer.

Oh but, my dear Mr. Brendel, you must allow me to help you. In one way or another, I am sure

Brendel.

Ha, such a proposal to me! Would you desecrate the bond that unites us? Never, Johannes, never!

Rosmer.

But what do you think of doing in town? Believe me, you won't find it easy to

Brendel.

Leave that to me, my boy. The die is cast. Simple as I stand here before you, I am engaged in a comprehensive campaign—more comprehensive than all my previous excursions put together. [To Rector Kroll.] Dare I ask the Herr