Dr. Stockmann.

Oh, did she?

Morten Kiil.

Ay ay—and she told me—. I thought she was only making game of me; but that’s not like Petra either.

Dr. Stockmann.

No, indeed; how could you think so?

Morten Kiil.

Oh, you can never be sure of anybody. You may be made a fool of before you know where you are. So it is true, after all?

Dr. Stockmann.

Most certainly it is. Do sit down, father-in-law. [Forces him down on the sofa.] Now isn’t it a real blessing for the town——?