Oh yes, but there is. There is a great deal more—I can see that. Sit here—and we’ll have a cosy, confidential chat.

[She forces Mrs. Elvsted to sit in the easy-chair beside the stove, and seats herself on one of the footstools.

Mrs. Elvsted.

[Anxiously, looking at her watch.] But, my dear Mrs. Tesman—I was really on the point of going.

Hedda.

Oh, you can’t be in such a hurry.—Well? Now tell me something about your life at home.

Mrs. Elvsted.

Oh, that is just what I care least to speak about.

Hedda.

But to me, dear——? Why, weren’t we schoolfellows?