Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/187

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page needs to be proofread.

JOHN GABRIEL BORKMAN

PLAY IN FOUR ACTS



ACT FIRST


Mrs. Borkman's drawing-room, furnished with old-fashioned, faded splendour. At the back, an open sliding-door leads into a garden-room, with windows and a glass door. Through it a view over the garden; twilight with driving snow. On the right, a door leading from the hall. Further forward, a large old-fashioned iron stove, with the fire lighted. On the left, towards the back, a single smaller door. In front, on the same side, a window, covered with thick curtains. Between the window and the door a horsehair sofa, with a table in front of it covered with a cloth. On the table, a lighted lamp with a shade. Beside the stove a high-backed armchair.

Mrs. Gunhild Borkman sits on the sofa, crocheting. She is an elderly lady, of cold, distinguished appearance, with stiff carriage and immobile features. Her abundant hair is very grey. Delicate transparent hands. Dressed in a gown of heavy