[Controlling himself.] Very well then; let the meeting have its way.
Aslaksen.
Will not the Burgomaster take the chair?
Three Gentlemen.
[Clapping.] Bravo! Bravo!
Burgomaster.
For reasons you will easily understand, I must decline. But, fortunately, we have among us one whom I think we can all accept. I allude to the president of the House-owners' Association, Mr. Aslaksen.
Many Voices.
Yes, yes! Bravo Aslaksen! Hurrah for Aslaksen!
[Dr. Stockmann takes his MS. and descends from the platform.