There is no necessity; I understand the circumstances very well. Your house was in a difficult position; and I was far away, and you had my unprotected name and fame to do what you liked with——Well, I don’t blame you so much for it; we were young and thoughtless in those days. But now I need the truth, and now you must speak out.

Bernick.

And just at this moment I require all my moral authority, and therefore I cannot speak out.

Johan.

I don’t care so much about the falsehoods you have trumped up at my expense; it is the other thing that you must take upon your own shoulders. Dina shall be my wife, and I will live here, here in this town, along with her.

Lona.

You will?

Bernick.

With Dina! As your wife? Here, in this town?

Johan.