Ella Rentheim.
Oh, how glad I am that you can still say that!
Erhart.
But I cannot sacrifice myself to you now. It is not possible for me to devote myself wholly to taking a son's place towards you.
Mrs. Borkman.
[Triumphing.] Ah, I knew it! You shall not have him! You shall not have him, Ella!
Ella Rentheim.
[Sadly.] I see it. You have won him back.
Mrs. Borkman.
Yes, yes! Mine he is, and mine he shall remain! Erhart, say it is so, dear; we two have still a long way to go together, have we not?
Erhart.
[Struggling with himself.] Mother, I may as well tell you plainly
Mrs. Borkman.
[Eagerly.] What?
Erhart.
I am afraid it is only a very little way you and I can go together.
Mrs. Borkman.
[Stands as though thunderstruck.] What do you mean by that?
