Mrs. Solness.
[Takes her parasol.] I must go into town now, Halvard. [To Hilda.] And I'll try to get one or two things that you may require.
Hilda.
[Making a motion to throw her arms round her neck.] Oh, you dear, sweet Mrs. Solness! You are really much too kind to me! Frightfully kind
Mrs. Solness.
[Deprecatingly, freeing herself.] Oh, not at all. It's only my duty, so I am very glad to do it.
Hilda.
[Offended, pouts.] But really, I think I am quite fit to be seen in the streets—now that I've put my dress to rights. Or do you think I am not?
Mrs. Solness.
To tell you the truth, I think people would stare at you a little.
Hilda.
[Contemptuously.] Pooh! Is that all? That only amuses me.
Solness.
[With suppressed ill-humour.] Yes, but people might take it into their heads that you were mad too, you see.
Hilda.
Mad? Are there so many mad people here in town, then?