No, I don't think that would be possible. For the inspiration, you see—

HEDDA.

Yes, yes—I suppose it depends on that—[Lightly.] But, by-the-bye —here is a letter for you.

TESMAN.

Fancy—!

HEDDA.

[Handing it to him.] It came early this morning.

TESMAN.

It's from Aunt Julia! What can it be? [He lays the packet on the other footstool, opens the letter, runs his eye through it, and jumps up.] Oh, Hedda—she says that poor Aunt Rina is dying!

HEDDA.