Dr. Herdal.

[Struggles with himself.] I—I cannot. You should not attempt to compound pills on your own account.

Rübub.

[Breathing laboriously.] And yet there was a time when you, too——

Dr. Herdal.

[Complacently.] Yes, it was certainly a pill that came as a lucky stepping stone—but not a pill like that!

Rübub.

[Vehemently.] Listen! Is that your last word? Is my aged mother to pass out of this world without ever knowing whether I am competent to construct an effective pill or not?

Dr. Herdal.

[As if in desperation.] You had better try it upon your mother—it will enable her to form an opinion. Only mind—I will not be responsible for the result.