ERHART. Oh, not at all. How can you think so! She only says it in fun. [Breaking off.] But don't let us talk about Mrs. Wilton. [He forces ELLA RENTHEIM to seat herself at the armchair beside the stove, then stands and looks at her.] To think of your having taken all this long journey, Aunt Ella! And in winter too!
ELLA RENTHEIM.
I found I had to, Erhart.
ERHART.
Indeed? Why so?
ELLA RENTHEIM.
I had to come to town after all, to consult the doctors.
ERHART.
Oh, I'm glad of that!
ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Smiling.] Are you glad of that?
ERHART.
I mean I am glad you made up your mind to it at last.
MRS. BORKMAN.
[On the sofa, coldly.] Are you ill, Ella?
ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Looking hardly at her.] You know quite well that I am ill.
MRS. BORKMAN.
I knew you were not strong, and hadn't been for years.