[Nearly crying.] You mustn’t say such things, Ekdal. Me, that has only wanted to do the best I could for you, all my days!
Hialmar.
I ask you, what becomes of the breadwinner’s dream? When I used to lie in there on the sofa and brood over my invention, I had a clear enough presentiment that it would sap my vitality to the last drop. I felt even then that the day when I held the patent in my hand—that day—would bring my—release. And then it was my dream that you should live on after me, the dead inventor’s well-to-do widow.
Gina.
[Drying her tears.] No, you mustn’t talk like that, Ekdal. May the Lord never let me see the day I am left a widow!
Hialmar.
Oh, the whole dream has vanished. It is all over now. All over!
Gregers Werle opens the passage door cautiously and looks in.
Gregers.
May I come in?