The Master Builder Part 21

The Master Builder Part 21

HILDA.


Cant you get hold of some one else who will do just as well?


SOLNESS.


Perhaps you would stay here and--and write in the ledger?


HILDA.


[Measures him with a glance.] Yes, I daresay! No, thank you--nothing of that sort for me.


[She again strolls across the room, and sits down on the rocking-chair. SOLNESS too goes to the table.


HILDA.


[Continuing.] For there must surely be plenty of other thing to be done here. [Looks smilingly at him.] Dont you think so, too?


SOLNESS.


Of course. First of all, I suppose, you want to make a round of the shops, and get yourself up in the height of fashion.


HILDA.


[Amused.] No, I think I shall let that alone!


SOLNESS.


Indeed?


HILDA.


For you must know I have run through all my money.


SOLNESS.


[Laughs.] Neither trunk nor money, then?


HILDA.


Neither one nor the other. But never mind--it doesnt matter now.


SOLNESS.


Come now, I like you for that.


HILDA.


Only for that?


SOLNESS.


For that among other things. [Sits in the arm-chair.] Is your father alive still?


HILDA.


Yes, fathers alive.


SOLNESS.


Perhaps you are thinking of studying here?


HILDA.


No, that hadnt occurred to me.


SOLNESS.


But I suppose you will be staying for some time?


HILDA.


That must depend upon circ.u.mstances.


[She sits awhile rocking herself and looking at him, half seriously, half with a suppressed smile. Then she takes off her hat and puts it on the table in front of her.


HILDA.


Mr. Solness!