Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/80

 been sealed books to me. I wanted to make myself thoroughly at home in the great world of truth and freedom that has been revealed to me.

Kroll.

Apostate! Every word proves it. But why, then, do you confess your secret apostasy after all? And why just at this time?

Rosmer.

You yourself have driven me to it, Kroll.

Kroll.

I? Have I driven you?

Rosmer.

When I heard of your violence on the platform—when I read all the rancorous speeches you made—your bitter onslaughts on your opponents—the contemptuous invectives you heaped on them—oh Kroll, to think that you—you—could come to this!—then my duty stood imperatively before me. Men are growing evil in this struggle. Peace and joy and mutual forbearance must once more enter into our souls. That is why I now intend to step forward and openly avow myself for what I am. I, too, will try my strength. Could not you—from your side—help me in this, Kroll?

Kroll.

Never so long as I live will I make peace with the subversive forces in society.

Rosmer.

Then at least let us fight with honourable weapons—since fight we must.