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TESMAN.
Yes, I am almost sure of it. For what you were telling us this
morning must have been a mere floating rumour.
BRACK.
You think so?
TESMAN.
At any rate, Aunt Julia said she did not believe for a moment that he
would ever stand in my way again. Fancy that!
BRACK.
Well then, that's all right.
TESMAN.
[Placing his hat and gloves on a chair on the right.] Yes, but you
must really let me wait for him as long as possible.
BRACK.
We have plenty of time yet. None of my guests will arrive before
seven or half-past.
TESMAN.
Then meanwhile we can keep Hedda company, and see what happens. Eh?
HEDDA.
[Placing BRACK'S hat and overcoat upon the corner settee.] And at
the worst Mr. Lovborg can remain here with me.
BRACK.
[Offering to take his things.] Oh, allow me, Mrs. Tesman!--What do
you mean by "At the worst"?
HEDDA.
If he won't go with you and Tesman.
TESMAN.
[Looks dubiously at her.] But, Hedda dear--do you think it would
quite do for him to remain here with you? Eh? Remember, Aunt Julia
can't come.
HEDDA.
No, but Mrs. Elvsted is coming. We three can have a cup of tea
together.
TESMAN.
Oh yes, that will be all right.
BRACK.
[Smiling.] And that would perhaps be the safest plan for him.
HEDDA.
Why so?
BRACK.
Well, you know, Mrs. Tesman, how you used to gird at my little
bachelor parties. You declared they were adapted only for men
of the strictest principles.
HEDDA.
But no doubt Mr. Lovborg's principles are strict enough now. A
converted sinner--- [BERTA appears at the hall door.
BERTA.
There's a gentleman asking if you are at home, ma'am---
HEDDA.
Well, show him in.
TESMAN.
[Softly.] I'm sure it is he! Fancy that!
EILERT LOVBORG enters from the hall. He is slim and lean;
of the same age as TESMAN, but looks older and somewhat
worn-out. His hair and beard are of a blackish brown, his
face long and pale, but with patches of colour on the cheeks.
He is dressed in a well-cut black visiting suit, quite new.
He has dark gloves and a silk hat. He stops near the door,
and makes a rapid bow, seeming somewhat embarrassed.
TESMAN.
[Goes up to him and shakes him warmly by the hand.] Well, my dear
Eilert--so at last we meet again!
EILERT LOVBORG.
[Speaks in a subdued voice.] Thanks for your letter, Tesman.
[Approaching HEDDA.] Will you too shake hands with me, Mrs. Tesman?
HEDDA.
[Taking his hand.] I am glad to see you, Mr. Lovborg. [With a
motion of her hand.] I don't know whether you two gentlemen---?
LOVBORG.
[Bowing slightly.] Judge Brack, I think.
BRACK.
[Doing likewise.] Oh yes,--in the old days---
TESMAN.
[To LOVBORG, with his hands on his shoulders.
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