Miss Tesman.

And, most of all, now that you have got the wife of your heart, my dear George.

Tesman.

[Embracing her.] Oh yes, yes, Aunt Julia! Hedda—she is the best part of it all! [Looks towards the doorway.] I believe I hear her coming—eh?

Hedda enters from the left through the inner room. She is a woman of nine-and-twenty. Her face and figure show refinement and distinction. Her complexion is pale and opaque. Her steel-grey eyes express a cold, unruffled repose. Her hair is of an agreeable medium brown, but not particularly abundant. She is dressed in a tasteful, somewhat loose-fitting morning gown.

Miss Tesman.

[Going to meet Hedda.] Good morning, my dear Hedda! Good morning, and a hearty welcome!

Hedda.

[Holds out her hand.] Good morning, dear Miss Tesman! So early a call! That is kind of you.

Miss Tesman.