Krogstad.

I am wildly happy! Engaged to the female cashier of the manager who has discharged me, our future is bright and secure!

[He goes out; and Mrs. Linden sets the furniture straight; presently a noise is heard outside, and Helmer enters, dragging Nora in. She is in fancy dress, and he in an open black domino.

Nora.

I shan't! It's too early to come away from such a nice party. I won't go to bed!

[She whimpers.

Helmer.

[Tenderly.] There'sh a naughty lil' larkie for you, Mrs. Linen! Poshtively had to drag her 'way! She'sh a capricious lil' girl—from Capri. 'Scuse me!—'fraid I've been and made a pun. Shan' 'cur again! Shplendid champagne the Consul gave us—'counts for it! [Sits down smiling.] Do you knit, Mrs. Cotton?... You shouldn't. Never knit. 'Broider. [Nodding to her, solemnly.] 'Member that. Alwaysh 'broider. More—[hiccoughing]—Oriental! Gobblesh you!—goo'ni!

Mrs. Linden.

I only came in to—to see Nora's costume. Now I've seen it, I'll go.