Aslaksen.

The authorities always move slowly, Doctor—God forbid I should blame them for it——

Hovstad.

We’ll stir them up in the paper to-morrow, Aslaksen.

Aslaksen.

No violence, Mr. Hovstad. Proceed with moderation, or you’ll do nothing with them. Take my advice; I've picked up experience in the school of life.—And now I'll say good morning, Doctor. You know now that at least you have us small middle-class men behind you, solid as a wall. You have the compact majority on your side, Doctor.

Dr. Stockmann.

Many thanks, my dear Mr. Aslaksen. [Holds out his hand.] Good-bye, good-bye.

Aslaksen.

Are you coming to the office, Mr. Hovstad?