The Master Builder Part 26

The Master Builder Part 26

HILDA.


And kissed me?


SOLNESS.


Yes, I did.


HILDA.


Many times?


SOLNESS.


As many as ever you like.


HILDA.


[Turns quickly toward him and has once more the sparkling expression of gladness in her eyes.] Well, you see, I got it out of you at last!


SOLNESS.


[With a slight smile.] Yes--just think of my forgetting such a thing as that.


HILDA.


[Again a little sulky, retreats from him.] Oh, you have kissed so many people in your time, I suppose.


SOLNESS.


No, you mustnt think that of me. [HILDA seats herself in the arm-chair.


SOLNESS stands and leans against the rocking-chair. Looks observantly at her.] Miss w.a.n.gel!


HILDA.


Yes!


SOLNESS.


How was it now? What came of all this--between us two.


HILDA.


Why, nothing more came of it. You know that quite well. For then the other guests came in, and then--bah!


SOLNESS.


Quite so! The others came in. To think of my forgetting that too!


HILDA.


Oh, you havent really forgotten anything: you are only a little ashamed of it all. I am sure one doesnt forget things of that kind.


SOLNESS.


No, one would suppose not.


HILDA.


[Lively again, looks at him.] Perhaps you have even forgotten what day it was?


SOLNESS.


What day--?


HILDA.


Yes, on what day did you hang the wreath on the tower? Well? Tell me at once!


SOLNESS.


Hm--I confess I have forgotten the particular day. I only know it was ten years ago. Some time in autumn.


HILDA.


[Nods her head slowly several times.] It was ten years ago--on the 19th of September.


SOLNESS.


Yes, it must have been about that time. Fancy your remembering that too!


[Stops.] But wait a moment--! Yes--its the 19th of September today.