Borkman.
Then we have been all the time deceiving each other. And perhaps deceiving ourselves—both of us.
Foldal.
But isn’t that just the essence of friendship, John Gabriel?
Borkman.
[Smiling bitterly.] Yes, you are right there. Friendship means—deception. I have learnt that once before.
Foldal.
[Looking at him.] I have no poetic vocation! And you could actually say it to me so bluntly.
Borkman.
[In a gentler tone.] Well, you know, I don’t pretend to know much about these matters.