[Clenching his hands.] Oh, why did you not carry out your threat? Why did you not shoot me down?

Hedda.

Because I have such a dread of scandal.

Lövborg.

Yes, Hedda, you are a coward at heart.

Hedda.

A terrible coward. [Changing her tone.] But it was a lucky thing for you. And now you have found ample consolation at the Elvsteds’.

Lövborg.

I know what Thea has confided to you.

Hedda.