Aslaksen.

Well, that has nothing to do with me. But if I am to be accused of cowardice and inconsistency, I should just like to point out this: My political record is open to every one. I have not changed at all, except in becoming more moderate. My heart still belongs to the people; but I don’t deny that my reason inclines somewhat towards the authorities—the local ones, I mean.

[Goes into the printing-room.]

Billing.

Don’t you think we should try to get rid of him, Hovstad?

Hovstad.

Do you know of any one else that will pay for our paper and printing?

Billing.

What a confounded nuisance it is to have no capital!

Hovstad.