Ring. A very important moment, however!
Holm. A very unexpected one, anyway!
Knutzon (jestingly). Allow me, amidst the cannon's roar, to introduce to you a man who has been led by the nose!
Ring. Oh, Tjaelde knows what he is about!
Tjaelde. Mr. Lind is kind enough to wish to propose a toast. (They all compose themselves into respectful silence.)
Lind. Our worthy host has proposed my health in most flattering terms. I would merely add this, that wealth is entrusted to those who have it precisely in order that they may support industry, genius, and great undertakings.
Pram (who has never changed his position). Nobly said.
Lind. I am only an administrator of a trust, and too often a weak and short-sighted one.
Pram. Beautiful.
Lind. But I shall not be mistaken if I say that Mr. Tjaelde's many-sided activities, which we must all admire, rest upon a sound foundation; and of that fact no one, at the present moment, is better able to judge than I. (The guests look at one another in surprise.) Therefore I have no hesitation in saying that his activities are an honour to this town, to this district, to our whole country, and that therefore his genius and his energy deserve support. I propose the toast of "prosperity to the firm of Tjaelde!"