Very well; then perhaps we had better go in. [To Hilda.] Still in your mountaineering dress, Miss Wangel?

Hilda.

[Gaily, rising.] Yes—in full uniform! But to-day I am not going climbing and breaking my neck. We two will stop quietly below and look on, doctor.

Dr. Herdal.

What are we to look on at?

Mrs. Solness.

[Softly, in alarm, to Hilda.] Hush, hush—for God’s sake! He is coming! Try to get that idea out of his head. And let us be friends, Miss Wangel. Don’t you think we can?

Hilda.

[Throws her arms impetuously round Mrs. Solness’s neck.] Oh, if we only could!

Mrs. Solness.