You mustn’t think ill of me. I am neither more self-interested nor more ambitious than other men.
Dr. Stockmann.
Why, my dear fellow—who says you are?
Hovstad.
I come of humble folk, as you know; and I have had ample opportunities of seeing what the lower classes really require. And that is to have a share in the direction of public affairs, Doctor. That is what develops ability and knowledge and self-respect——
Dr. Stockmann.
I understand that perfectly.
Hovstad.
Yes; and I think a journalist incurs a heavy responsibility if he lets slip a chance of helping to emancipate the downtrodden masses. I know well enough that our oligarchy will denounce me as an agitator, and so forth; but what do I care? If only my conscience is clear, I——
Dr. Stockmann.