Hedda.

You acknowledged that you envied him his work.

Tesman.

Oh, of course I didn’t mean that literally.

Hedda.

No matter—I could not bear the idea that any one should throw you into the shade.

Tesman.

[In an outburst of mingled doubt and joy.] Hedda! Oh, is this true? But—but—I never knew you show your love like that before. Fancy that!

Hedda.

Well, I may as well tell you that—just at this time——[Impatiently, breaking off.] No, no; you can ask Aunt Julia. She will tell you, fast enough.