The Master Builder Part 34

The Master Builder Part 34

MRS. SOLNESS.


Very well, then I wont say it, Halvard.


SOLNESS.


But I stick to what _I_ said. Youll 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 fathers and mothers--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 Heavens 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 wouldnt 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 its what came of the fire--the dreadful thing that followed--! That is the thing! That, that, that!


SOLNESS.


[Vehemently.] Dont 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 dont seem to be able to bear it any longer. And then never to be able to forgive myself--


SOLNESS.


[Exclaiming.] Yourself--!