BORKMAN. I understand you well enough. You want to save my son from having to bear his father's name. That is your meaning.
ELLA RENTHEIM. No, no, not that! I myself would have borne it proudly and gladly along with you! But a mother who is at the point of death—— There is more binding force in a name than you think or believe, Borkman.
BORKMAN. [Coldly and proudly.] Well and good, Ella. I am man enough to bear my own name alone.
ELLA RENTHEIM. [Seizing and pressing his hand.] Thank you, thank you! Now there has been a full settlement between us! Yes, yes, let it be so! You have made all the atonement in your power. For when I have gone from the world, I shall leave Erhart Rentheim behind me!
[The tapestry door is thrown open. MRS. BORKMAN, with the large shawl over her head, stands in the doorway.
MRS. BORKMAN. [In violent agitation.] Never to his dying day shall Erhart be called by that name!
ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Shrinking back.] Gunhild!
BORKMAN. [Harshly and threateningly.] I allow no one to come up to my room!
MRS. BORKMAN.
[Advancing a step.] I do not ask your permission.
BORKMAN.
[Going towards her.] What do you want with me?