Sannaes (seriously). But I should suffer horribly if you did.
Valborg. Believe me, Sannaes, I love you well enough to be able to afford to have a little laugh sometimes at your little imperfections. Indeed, I often do! And suppose we were out in society, and I saw you weighed down under the necessity for pretty manners that do not come easy to you; if I did laugh at you, do you think there would be any unkindness behind my laughter? If others laughed at you, do you suppose I would not, the very next moment, take your arm and walk proudly down the room with you? I know what you really are, and others know it too! Thank God it is not only bad deeds that are known to others in this world!
Sannaes. Your words intoxicate me and carry me off my feet!
Valborg (earnestly). If you think I am only flattering you, let us put it to the test. Mr. Berent is here. He moves in the very best society, but he is superior to its littlenesses. Shall we take his opinion? Without betraying anything, I could make him give it in a moment.
Sannaes (carried away). I want no one's opinion but yours!
Valborg. That's right! If only you feel certain of my love—
Sannaes (impetuously).—then nothing else will seem to matter; and that alone will be able to teach me all that I lack, in a very short time.
Valborg. Look into my eyes!
Sannaes (taking her hands). Yes!
Valborg. Do you believe that nothing would ever make me ashamed of you!