[Looking up.] Good heavens, are you out on the steps, John Gabriel? [Bowing.] And Mrs. Borkman, too, I see.

Borkman.

[Shortly.] This is not Mrs. Borkman.

Foldal.

Oh, I beg pardon. You see, I have lost my spectacles in the snow. But how is it that you, who never put your foot out of doors——?

Borkman.

[Carelessly and gaily.] It is high time I should come out into the open air again, don’t you see? Nearly three years in detention—five years in prison—eight years in the gallery up there——

Ella Rentheim.

[Distressed.] Borkman, I beg you——

Foldal.