Helmer.

[Inspecting parcels.] H'm—rather an expensive little lark!

[Takes her playfully by the ear.

Nora.

Little birds like to have a flutter occasionally. Which reminds me—— [Plays with his coat-buttons.] I'm such a simple ickle sing—but if you are thinking of giving me a Christmas present, make it cash!

Helmer.

Just like your poor father, he always asked me to make it cash—he never made any himself! It's heredity, I suppose. Well—well!

[Goes back to his Bank. Nora goes on humming.

[Enter Mrs. Linden, doubtfully.

Nora.