Svava. He is. But I have heard of one shocking experience after another. There was poor Helga, only a month ago! And I myself—I can speak about it now, for I am happy now and feel secure—I can tell you now why I have been so long about it. For a long time I did nut dare to trust myself; because I too have been on the brink of being deceived.
Riis and Mrs. Riis (together, starting up from their chairs). You, Svava?
Svava. I was quite young at the time. Like most young girls, I was looking for my ideal, and found it in a young, vivacious man—I won't describe him more accurately. He had—oh, the noblest principles and the highest aims—the most complete contrast to you in that respect father! To say I loved him, is much too mild; I worshipped him. But I never can tell you what I discovered or how I discovered it. It was the time when you all thought I had—
Mrs. Riis.—something wrong with your lungs? Is it possible, child? Was it then?
Svava. Yes, it was then.—No one could endure or forgive being deceived like that!
Mrs. Riis. And you never said a word to me?
Svava. Only those who have made such a mistake as I did can understand the shame one feels.—Well, it is all over now. But this much is certain, that no one who has had such an experience once will make the same mistake again. (Meanwhile RIIS has gone into his room.)
Mrs. Riis. Perhaps it was a good thing for you, after all?
Svava. I am sure it was.—Well, it is all done with now. But it was not quite done with till I found Alfred. Where is father?
Mrs. Riis. Your father? Here he comes.