Mrs. Elvsted.

They may say what they like, for aught I care. [Seats herself wearily and sadly on the sofa.] I have done nothing but what I had to do.

Hedda.

[After a short silence.] And what are your plans now? What do you think of doing?

Mrs. Elvsted.

I don’t know yet. I only know this, that I must live here, where Eilert Lövborg is—if I am to live at all.

Hedda.

[Takes a chair from the table, seats herself beside her, and strokes her hands.] My dear Thea—how did this—this friendship—between you and Eilert Lövborg come about?

Mrs. Elvsted.

Oh it grew up gradually. I gained a sort of influence over him.