[At the writing-table, putting the pistol-case in a drawer which she shuts.] No. He rushed off to his aunt’s directly after lunch; he didn’t expect you so early.

Brack.

H’m—how stupid of me not to have thought of that!

Hedda.

[Turning her head to look at him.] Why stupid?

Brack.

Because if I had thought of it I should have come a little—earlier.

Hedda.

[Crossing the room.] Then you would have found no one to receive you; for I have been in my room changing my dress ever since lunch.

Brack.