[As a thought flashes upon him.] Or——! Wait a moment! There is something under all this, you may depend!

Hilda.

[Does not move.]

Solness.

[In a low voice, but with emphasis.] I must have thought all that. I must have wished it—have willed it—have longed to do it. And then——. May not that be the explanation?

Hilda.

[Is still silent.]

Solness.

[Impatiently.] Oh very well, deuce take it all—then I did do it, I suppose.[suppose.]

Hilda.