Werle. That may be. But the fact remains that he was found guilty, and I acquitted.
Gregers. Yes, of course I know that nothing was proved against you.
Werle. Acquittal is acquittal. Why do you rake up old troubles?... I’ve done all I could without positively exposing myself, and giving rise to all sorts of suspicion and gossip.... I’ve given Ekdal copying to do from the office, and I pay him far, far more for it than his work is worth.
Werle thus shuffles his fault on Ekdal, and the latter breaks down under the weight of the cross. Afterwards, when Hjalmar learns that little Hedwig is not his child, and disowns her, the idiot Gregers Werle goes to the despairing maiden, and says:
But suppose you were to sacrifice the wild duck, of your own free will, for his sake?
Hedwig (rising). The wild duck!
Gregers. Suppose you were to sacrifice, for his sake, the dearest treasure you have in the world?
Hedwig. Do you think that would do any good?
Gregers. Try it, Hedwig.
Hedwig (softly, with flashing eyes). Yes, I will try it.