Borkman.

[Darkly and threateningly.] If it is Erhart you mean, say so at once!

Mrs. Borkman.

[Looking him straight in the eyes.] Yes, it is Erhart; my son; he whom you are ready to renounce in atonement for your own acts.

Borkman.

[With a look towards Ella.] In atonement for my blackest sin.

Mrs. Borkman.

[Repelling the idea.] A sin towards a stranger only. Remember the sin towards me! [Looking triumphantly at them both.] But he will not obey you! When I cry out to him in my need, he will come to me! It is with me that he will remain! With me, and never with any one else. [Suddenly listens, and cries.] I hear him! He is here, he is here! Erhart!

[Erhart Borkman hastily tears open the hall door, and enters the room. He is wearing an overcoat and has his hat on.

Erhart.