Gregers.

To be sure; and I suppose the studio is your wife’s special department?

Hialmar.

As a rule, I leave the everyday details of business to her; for then I can take refuge in the parlour and give my mind to more important things.

Gregers.

What things may they be, Hialmar?

Hialmar.

I wonder you have not asked that question sooner. But perhaps you haven’t heard of the invention?

Gregers.

The invention? No.