He might perhaps live on it; but what could he live for?
The Chamberlain.
For? Well, if he absolutely must have something to live for, hasn’t he qualified as a lawyer? He might live for his profession.
Fieldbo.
No, that he couldn’t do; it is against his nature. Then there was no official appointment he could well hope for; you have kept the management of your property in your own hands; and your son has no children to educate. Under these circumstances, when he sees tempting examples around him—people who have started from nothing and are worth their half million——
The Chamberlain.
Their half million! Oh, come now, let us keep to the hundred thousands. But neither the half million nor the hundred thousands can be scraped together with perfectly clean hands;—I don’t mean in the eyes of the world; Heaven knows it is easy enough to keep within the law; but in respect to one’s own conscience. Of course my son cannot descend to anything questionable; so you may be quite sure Mr. Erik Bratsberg’s financial operations won’t bring in any half millions.
Selma, in walking dress, enters from the back.
Selma.
Good-morning! Is Erik not here?