Tjaelde (coming down the stairs). Sannaes! Sannaes! I can see Jakobsen coming. (Hurries across the room as if pursued by fear. SANNAES follows him.) Of course he will be coming back to look for me again! It is cowardly of me to feel that I cannot stand it; but I cannot—not to-day, not now! I cannot stand any more! Stop him! Don't let him come in! I shall have to drink my cup of misery to the dregs; but (almost in a whisper) not all at one draught! (Hides his face in his hands.)
Sannaes. He shan't come; don't be afraid! (Goes quickly out, with an air of determination.)
Tjaelde. It is hard—oh, it is hard!
Valborg (coming to his side). Father! (He looks at her, anxiously.) You may safely accept the money Sannaes offers you.
Tjaelde (in surprise). What do you mean by that?
Valborg. I mean—that, if you do, I will not forsake you either, but stay here with you too.
Tjaelde (incredulously). You, Valborg?
Valborg. Yes, you know I want to learn office work, and business; and I would rather learn in your office.
Tjaelde (shyly). I don't understand what you—?
Valborg. Don't you understand, dear? I believe I could become of some use in the office. And in that way, you know, we might begin afresh—and try, with God's help, to pay your creditors.