The Master Builder Part 67

The Master Builder Part 67

[With an outburst.] Oh, it all seems to me so foolish--so foolish!


SOLNESS.


All what?


HILDA.


Not to be able to grasp at your own happiness--at your own life! Merely because some one you know happens to stand in the way!


SOLNESS.


One whom you have no right to set aside.


HILDA.


I wonder whether one really has not the right! And yet, and yet--. Oh!


if one could only sleep the whole thing away!


[She lays her arms flat don on the table, rests the left side of her head on her hands, and shuts her eyes.


SOLNESS.


[Turns the arm-chair and sits down at the table.] Had you a cosy, happy home--up there with your father, Hilda?


HILDA.


[Without stirring, answers as if half asleep.] I had only a cage.


SOLNESS.


And you are determined not to go back to it?


HILDA.


[As before.] The wild bird never wants to go back to the cage.


SOLNESS.


Rather range through the free air--


HILDA.


[Still as before.] The bird of prey loves to range--


SOLNESS.


[Lets his eyes rest on her.] If only one had the viking-spirit in life--


HILDA.


[In her usual voice; opens her eyes but does not move.] And the other thing? Say what that was!


SOLNESS.


A robust conscience.


[HILDA sits erect on the bench, with animation. Her eyes have once more the sparkling expression of gladness.


HILDA.


[Nods to him.] _I_ know what you are going to build next!


SOLNESS.


Then you know more than I do, Hilda.


HILDA.


Yes, builders are such stupid people.


SOLNESS.


What is it to be then?


HILDA.


[Nods again.] The castle.


SOLNESS.