Ekdal (in the doorway). Must absolutely go to the office, Pettersen.
Pettersen. The office was closed an hour ago and——
Ekdal. Heard so at the door, my lad. But Graberg’s in there still. Be a good fellow, Pettersen, and let me slip in this way. (Pointing to the baize door.) I’ve been that way before.
Pettersen. All right, you can go. (Opens door.) But mind you leave the proper way, for we’ve company.
Ekdal. Know that—h’m! Thanks, Pettersen, my lad. Good old friend. Thanks. (Mutters in a low tone.) Idiot!
He goes into the office. Pettersen closes the door after him.
Jensen. Is he one of the clerks too?
Pettersen. No, he only does writing at home when it’s wanted. But he’s been a great swell in his time, has old Ekdal.
Jensen. Yes, he looks as if he had been a little of everything.
Pettersen. Yes, for you know he’s been a lieutenant.