[Making a motion to throw her arms round her neck.] Oh, you dear, sweet Mrs. Solness! You are really much too kind to me! Frightfully kind——

Mrs. Solness.

[Deprecatingly, freeing herself.] Oh, not at all. It’s only my duty, so I am very glad to do it.

Hilda.

[Offended, pouts.] But really, I think I am quite fit to be seen in the streets—now that I’ve put my dress to rights. Or do you think I am not?

Mrs. Solness.

To tell you the truth, I think people would stare at you a little.

Hilda.

[Contemptuously.] Pooh! Is that all? That only amuses me.

Solness.