[Asta and Borgheim go out together behind the boat-shed. Allmers wanders about for a little. Then he seats himself on a stone under the trees on the left.

Rita.

[Comes up and stands before him, her hands folded and hanging down.] Can you think the thought, Alfred—that we have lost Eyolf?

Allmers.

[Looking sadly at the ground.] We must accustom ourselves to think it.

Rita.

I cannot. I cannot. And then that horrible sight that will haunt me all my life long.

Allmers.

[Looking up.] What sight? What have you seen?

Rita.