Dr. Stockmann.

Oh, I shall keep myself well in hand. [Looks at his watch, ascends the platform, and bows.] It’s a quarter past the hour, so I shall begin——

[Takes out his MS.

Aslaksen.

But surely a chairman must be elected first.

Dr. Stockmann.

No, that’s not at all necessary.

Several Gentlemen.

[Shouting.] Yes, yes.

Burgomaster.