Mrs. Bernick.
Just when everything was so nice and quiet too!
Hilmar.
Well, for my part, I shouldn't mind their beginning their bickerings again. It would be a variety at least.
Rörlund.
I think we can dispense with that sort of variety.
Hilmar.
It depends upon one's constitution. Some natures crave for a Titanic struggle now and then. But there's no room for that sort of thing in our petty provincial life, and it's not every one that can[Turning over the leaves of Rörlund's book.] "Woman as the Servant of Society"—what rubbish is this!
Mrs. Bernick.
Oh, Hilmar, you mustn't say that. You have surely not read the book.
Hilmar.
No, and don't intend to.
Mrs. Bernick.
You seem out of sorts to-day.
Hilmar.
Yes, I am.
Mrs. Bernick.
Perhaps you didn't sleep well last night?
Hilmar.
No, I slept very badly. I went a walk yesterday evening, by my doctor's orders. Then I
