Besides, a man of science must live in some style. Why, I believe a mere sheriff[[7]] spends much more a year than I do.
Burgomaster.
Yes, I should think so! A member of the superior magistracy——
Dr. Stockmann.
Well then, even a common shipowner! A man of that sort will get through many times as much——
Burgomaster.
That is natural, in your relative positions.
Dr. Stockmann.
And after all, Peter, I really don’t squander any money. But I can’t deny myself the delight of having people about me. I must have them. After living so long out of the world, I find it a necessity of life to have bright, cheerful, freedom-loving, hard-working young fellows around me—and that’s what they are, all of them, that are sitting there eating so heartily. I wish you knew more of Hovstad——
Burgomaster.