BORKMAN. Yes it is. And that was why, when they came and took me, they found all your securities untouched in the strong-room of the bank.
ELLA RENTHEIM. [Looking at him.] I have often and often wondered what was your real reason for sparing all my property? That, and that alone.
BORKMAN.
My reason?
ELLA RENTHEIM.
Yes, your reason. Tell me.
BORKMAN. [Harshly and scornfully.] Perhaps you think it was that I might have something to fall back upon, if things went wrong?
ELLA RENTHEIM.
Oh no, I am sure you did not think of that in those days.
BORKMAN.
Never! I was so absolutely certain of victory.
ELLA RENTHEIM.
Well then, why was it that——?
BORKMAN. [Shrugging his shoulders.] Upon my soul, Ella, it is not so easy to remember one's motives of twenty years ago. I only know that when I used to grapple, silently and alone, with all the great projects I had in my mind, I had something like the feeling of a man who is starting on a balloon voyage. All through my sleepless nights I was inflating my giant balloon, and preparing to soar away into perilous, unknown regions.
ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Smiling.] You, who never had the least doubt of victory?