Foldal.

Yes, Heaven knows I do, John Gabriel.

Borkman.

[Seating himself again on the sofa.] I firmly believe it. I am immovably convinced—I know that they will come. If I had not been certain of that I would have put a bullet through my head long ago.

Foldal.

[Anxiously.] Oh no, for Heaven’s sake——!

Borkman.

[Exultantly.] But they will come! They will come sure enough! You shall see! I expect them any day, any moment. And you see, I hold myself in readiness to receive them.

Foldal.

[With a sigh.] If only they would come quickly.