Dr. Stockmann.
And when, at last, fate ordered things so happily that I could come home again—then, fellow citizens, it seemed to me that I hadn’t another desire in the world. Yes, one desire I had: an eager, constant, burning desire to be of service to my birthplace, and to its people.
Burgomaster.
[Gazing into vacancy.] A strange method to select——!
Dr. Stockmann.
So I went about revelling in my happy illusions. But yesterday morning—no, it was really two nights ago—my mind’s eyes were opened wide, and the first thing I saw was the colossal stupidity of the authorities——
[Noise, cries, and laughter. Mrs. Stockmann coughs repeatedly.
Burgomaster.
Mr. Chairman!
Aslaksen.