Krogstad.
Well, I've got the sack, and so I came to see how you are getting on. I mayn't be a nice man, but—[with feeling]—I have a heart! And, as I don't intend to give up the forged I.O.U.. unless I'm taken back, I was afraid you might be contemplating suicide, or something of that kind; and so I called to tell you that, if I were you, I wouldn't. Bad thing for the complexion, suicide—and silly, too, because it wouldn't mend matters in the least. [Kindly.] You must not take this affair too seriously, Mrs. Helmer. Get your husband to settle it amicably by taking me back as Cashier; then I shall soon get the whip-hand of him, and we shall all be as pleasant and comfortable as possible together!
Nora.
Not even that prospect can tempt me! Besides, Torvald wouldn't have you back at any price now!
Krogstad.
All right, then. I have here a letter, telling your husband all. I will take the liberty of dropping it in the letter-box at your hall-door as I go out. I'll wish you good evening!
[He goes out; presently the dull sound of a thick letter dropping into a wire box is heard.
Nora.
[Softly, and hoarsely.] He's done it! How am I to prevent Torvald from seeing it?
Helmer.