1st Citizen (to HOVSTAD). I say, what has come to the Doctor? What are we to think of it?
Hovstad. Oh, you know how headstrong he is.
2nd Citizen (to BILLING). Billing, you go to their house—have you ever noticed if the fellow drinks?
Billing. Well I'm hanged if I know what to say. There are always spirits on the table when you go.
3rd Citizen. I rather think he goes quite off his head sometimes.
1st Citizen. I wonder if there is any madness in his family?
Billing. I shouldn't wonder if there were.
4th Citizen. No, it is nothing more than sheer malice; he wants to get even with somebody for something or other.
Billing. Well certainly he suggested a rise in his salary on one occasion lately, and did not get it.
The Citizens (together). Ah!—then it is easy to understand how it is!