Brovik.
I must have an answer to this one question. Am I to pass out of life in such utter poverty?
Solness.
[Seems to struggle with himself; finally he says, in a low but firm voice:] You must pass out of life as best you can.
Brovik.
Then be it so. [He goes up the room.
Solness.
[Following him, half in desperation.] Don't you understand that I cannot help it? I am what I am, and I cannot change my nature!
Brovik.
No, on; I suppose you can't. [Reels and supports himself against the sofa-table.] May I have a glass of water?
Solness.
By all means. [Fills a glass and hands it to him.
Brovik.
Thanks. [Drinks and puts the glass down again. [Solness goes up and opens the door of the draughtsmen's office.
Solness.
Ragnar—you must come and take your father home.
Ragnar rises quickly. He and Kaia come into the work-room.
Ragnar. What is the matter, father?
