_Gregers_ (_reprovingly_). I _thought_ you hadn't grown up quite
unharmed in this house! But if you really had the true, joyous spirit
of self-sacrifice, you'd have a shot at that Wild Duck, if you died
for it!

_Hedvig_ (_slowly_). I see; you mean that my constitution's changing,
and I ought to behave as such?

_Gregers_. Exactly, I'm what Americans would term a "crank"--but _I_
believe in you, HEDVIG.

[_HEDVIG takes down the pistol from the mantelpiece, and goes
into the garret with flashing eyes; GINA comes in._

_Hialmar_ (_looking in at door with hesitation; he is unwashed and
dishevelled_). Has anybody happened to see my hat?

_Gina_. Gracious, what a sight you are! Sit down and have some
breakfast, do. [_She brings it._

_Hialmar_ (_indignantly_). What! touch food under _this_ roof? Never!
(_Helps himself to bread-and-butter and coffee._) Go and pack up my
scientific uncut books, my manuscripts, and all the best rabbits, in
my portmanteau. I am going away for ever. On second thoughts, I shall
stay in the spare room for another day or two--it won't be the same as
living with you!

[_He takes some salt meat._

_Gregers_. _Must_ you go? Just when you've got nice firm ground to