HIALMAR, with your deep mind, surely _you_ feel a new consecration,
eh?

_Hialmar_ (_dubiously_). Oh--er--yes. I suppose so--in a sort of way.

[_HEDVIG runs in, overjoyed._

_Hedvig_. Father, only see what Mrs. SÖRBY has given, me for a
birthday present--a beautiful deed of gift! [_Shows it._

_Hialmar_ (_eluding her_). Ha! Mrs. SÖRBY, the family Housekeeper.
My father's sight failing! HEDVIG in goggles! What vistas of heredity
these astonishing coincidences open up! _I_ am not short-sighted, at
all events, and I see it all--all! _This_ is my answer. (_He takes
the deed, and tears it across._) Now I have nothing more to do in this
house. (_Puts on overcoat._) My home has fallen in ruins about me.
(_Bursts into tears._) My hat!

_Gregers_. Oh, but you _mustn't_ go. You must be all three together,
to attain the true frame of mind for self-sacrificing forgiveness, you
know!

_Hialmar_. Self-sacrificing forgiveness be blowed!

[_He tears himself away, and goes out._

_Hedvig_ (_with despairing eyes_). Oh, he said it might be blowed! Now
he'll _never_ come home any more!

_Gregers_. Shall I tell you how to regain your father's confidence,