[She sips a glass of punch. The gentlemen laugh and flirt with her.

Werle.

Mrs. Sörby can always find a loop-hole—when she wants to. Fill your glasses, gentlemen! Pettersen, will you see to it——! Gregers, suppose we have a glass together. [Gregers does not move.] Won’t you join us, Ekdal? I found no opportunity of drinking with you at table.

[Gråberg, the Bookkeeper, looks in at the baize door.

Gråberg.

Excuse me, sir, but I can’t get out.

Werle.

Have you been locked in again?

Gråberg.

Yes, and Flakstad has carried off the keys.