Ah, you are right there. Misfortune will have its way—as the saying goes.
But it's what came of the fire—the dreadful thing that followed—! That is the thing! That, that, that!
[Vehemently.] Don't think about that, Aline!
Ah, that is exactly what I cannot help thinking about. And now, at last, I must speak about it, too; for I don't seem to be able to bear it any longer. And then never to be able to forgive myself—
[Exclaiming.] Yourself—!
Yes, for I had duties on both sides—both towards you and towards the little ones. I ought to have hardened myself—not to have let the horror take such hold upon me—nor the grief for the burning of my home. [Wrings her hands.] Oh, Halvard, if I had only had the strength!
[Softly, much moved, comes closer.] Aline—you must promise me never to think these thoughts any more.—Promise me that, dear!
Oh, promise, promise! One can promise anything.
[Clenches his hands and crosses the room.] Oh, but this is hopeless, hopeless! Never a ray of sunlight! Not so much as a gleam of brightness to light up our home!
This is no home, Halvard.