[Taking the card.] Let me see---- [Reads it; rises hastily and
looks intently at the girl.] Are you sure this is for me?

THE MAID.
Yes, I understand it was for you, ma'am.

MRS. BORKMAN.
Did she say she wanted to see Mrs. Borkman?

THE MAID.
Yes, she did.

MRS. BORKMAN.
[Shortly, resolutely.] Good. Then say I am at home.

[THE MAID opens the door for the strange lady and goes out.
MISS ELLA RENTHEIM enters. She resembles her sister; but
her face has rather a suffering than a hard expression.
It still shows signs of great beauty, combined with strong
character. She has a great deal of hair, which is drawn
back from the forehead in natural ripples, and is snow-white.
She is dressed in black velvet, with a hat and a fur-lined
cloak of the same material.

[The two sisters stand silent for a time, and look searchingly
at each other. Each is evidently waiting for the other to
speak first.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Who has remained near the door.] You are surprised to see me,