[Pale and anxious.] Mother! What in Heaven’s name——! [Seeing Borkman, who is standing beside the doorway leading into the garden-room, he starts and takes off his hat. After a moment’s silence, he asks:] What do you want with me, mother? What has happened?

Mrs. Borkman.

[Stretching out her arms towards him.] I want to see you, Erhart! I want to have you with me, always!

Erhart.

[Stammering.] Have me——? Always? What do you mean by that?

Mrs. Borkman.

I will have you, I say! There is some one who wants to take you from me!

Erhart.

[Recoiling a step.] Ah—so you know?

Mrs. Borkman.