They were immensely pleased with his idea. They thought it exceedingly original, they said.
Oho! Original! Not the old-fashioned stuff that I am in the habit of turning out!
It seemed to them different.
[With suppressed irritation.] So it was to see Ragnar that they came here—whilst I was out!
They came to call upon you—and at the same time to ask whether you would mind retiring—
[Angrily.] Retire? I?
In case you thought that Ragnar's drawings—
I! Retire in favour of your son!
Retire from the agreement, they meant.
Oh, it comes to the same thing. [Laughs angrily.] So that is it, is it? Halvard Solness is to see about retiring now! To make room for younger men! For the very youngest, perhaps! He must make room! Room! Room!