Horster. He is waiting in the next room. (Movement in the crowd by the door at the back.)
Hovstad. Look—here comes the Mayor!
Billing. Yes, I’m damned if he hasn’t come after all!
(PETER STOCKMANN makes his way gradually through the crowd, bows courteously, and takes up a position by the wall on the left. Shortly afterwards Dr. STOCKMANN comes in by the right-hand door. He is dressed in a black frock-coat, with a white tie. There is a little feeble applause, which is hushed down. Silence is obtained.)
Dr. Stockmann (in an undertone). How do you feel, Katherine?
Mrs. Stockmann. All right, thank you. (Lowering her voice.) Be sure not to lose your temper, Thomas.
Dr. Stockmann. Oh, I know how to control myself.
(Looks at his watch, steps on to the platform, and bows. It is a quarter past—so I will begin. (Takes his MS. out of his pocket).
Aslaksen. I think we ought to elect a chairman first.
Dr. Stockmann. No, it is quite unnecessary.