Borkman.

[Nodding.] I remember that phrase. [Slowly.] All the sleeping spirits of the mine.

Ella Rentheim.

But you did not take it as a jest. You said: “Yes, yes, Ella, that is just what I want to do.”

Borkman.

And so it was. If only I could get my foot into the stirrup——And that depended on that one man. He could and would secure me the control of the bank—if I on my side——

Ella Rentheim.

Yes, just so! If you on your side would renounce the woman you loved—and who loved you beyond words in return.

Borkman.

I knew his consuming passion for you. I knew that on no other condition would he——