[Hialmar and Relling go off to the right. Gina takes Hedvig with her into the kitchen.

Gregers.

[After a short pause.] Well, now we are alone.

Werle.

From something you let fall last evening, and from your coming to lodge with the Ekdals, I can’t help inferring that you intend to make yourself unpleasant to me, in one way or another.

Gregers.

I intend to open Hialmar Ekdal’s eyes. He shall see his position as it really is—that is all.

Werle.

Is that the mission in life you spoke of yesterday?

Gregers.