[With self-control.] Mrs. Borkman, there are forces in human life that you seem to know very little about.

Mrs. Borkman.

What forces, may I ask?

Mrs. Wilton.

The forces which ordain that two people shall join their lives together, indissolubly—and fearlessly.

Mrs. Borkman.

[With a smile.] I thought you were already indissolubly bound—to another.

Mrs. Wilton.

[Shortly.] That other has deserted me.

Mrs. Borkman.