Do you think that is worth the trouble? Oh, if you could only understand how poor I am. And fate has made you so rich! [Clasps her passionately in her arms.] I think I must burn your hair off, after all.

Mrs. Elvsted.

Let me go! Let me go! I am afraid of you, Hedda!

Berta.

[In the middle doorway.] Tea is laid in the dining-room, ma’am.

Hedda.

Very well. We are coming.

Mrs. Elvsted.

No, no, no! I would rather go home alone! At once!

Hedda.