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MRS. SOLNESS.
Very well, then I won't say it, Halvard.
SOLNESS.
But I stick to what _I_ said. You'll see that things will be easier for you in the new place.
MRS. SOLNESS.
Oh, heavens--easier for me--!
SOLNESS.
[Eagerly.] Yes, indeed they will! You may be quite sure of that! For you see--there will be so very, very much there that will remind you of your own home--
MRS. SOLNESS.
The home that used to be father's and mother's--and that was burnt to the ground--
SOLNESS.
[In a low voice.] Yes, yes, my poor Aline. That was a terrible blow for you.
MRS. SOLNESS.
[Breaking out in lamentation.] You may build as much as ever you like, Halvard--you can never build up again a real home for me!
SOLNESS.
[Crosses the room.] Well, in Heaven's name, let us talk no more about it then.
MRS. SOLNESS.
We are not in the habit of talking about it. For you always put the thought away from you--
SOLNESS.
[Stops suddenly and looks at her.] Do I? And why should I do that? Put the thought away from me?
MRS. SOLNESS.
Oh yes, Halvard, I understand you very well. You are so anxious to spare me--and to find excuses for me too--as much as ever you can.
SOLNESS.
[With astonishment in his eyes.] You! Is it you--yourself, that your are talking about, Aline?
MRS. SOLNESS.
Yes, who else should it be but myself?
SOLNESS.
[Involuntarily to himself.] That too!
MRS. SOLNESS.
As for the old house, I wouldn't mind so much about that. When once misfortune was in the air--why--
SOLNESS.
Ah, you are right there. Misfortune will have its way--as the saying goes.
MRS. SOLNESS.
But it's what came of the fire--the dreadful thing that followed--! That is the thing! That, that, that!
SOLNESS.
[Vehemently.] Don't think about that, Aline!
MRS. SOLNESS.
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--
SOLNESS.
[Exclaiming.] Yourself--!
