Mrs. Riis. But, my dear doctor, you surely think—as we all do—that this will be a happy marriage?
Nordan. He is a fine lad. But, all the same—I have been taken in so often.—Oh, well!
Mrs. Riis. She was so happy, and is just as happy to-day.
Nordan. It is a pity I shall not see her. Good-bye, Mrs. Riis.
Mrs. Riis. Good-bye, doctor. Then you are off to-day?
Nordan. Yes, I need a change of air.
Mrs. Riis. Quite so. Well, I hope you will enjoy yourself—and, many thanks for what you have done!
Nordan. It is I ought to thank you, my dear lady! I aim vexed not to be able to say good-bye to Svava. (Goes out. MRS. RIIS takes up a magazine from the table on the left and settles herself comfortably on a couch from which she can see into the park. During what follows she reads whenever opportunity allows. RIIS comes in through the door to the right, in his shirt sleeves and struggling with his collar.)
Riis. Good morning! Was that Nordan that went out just now?
Mrs. Riis. Yes. (RIIS crosses the room, then turns back and disappears through the door on the right. He comes back again immediately and goes through the same proceeding, all the tine busy with his collar.) Can I help you at all?