May I have a few words with you?
Certainly.
[To KAIA.] Just go in there for moment, Kaia.
[Uneasily.] Oh, but uncle—
Do as I say, child. And shut the door after you.
[KAIA goes reluctantly into the draughtsmen's office, glances
anxiously and imploringly at SOLNESS, and shuts the door.
[Lowering his voice a little.] I don't want the poor children to know how I am.
Yes, you have been looking very poorly of late.
It will soon be all over with me. My strength is ebbing—from day to day.
Won't you sit down?