ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Softly, with suppressed pain.] Borkman? John Gabriel Borkman?

MRS. BORKMAN.
He walks up and down like that--backwards and forwards--from
morning to night--day out and day in.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
I have heard something of this----

MRS. BORKMAN.
I daresay. People find plenty to say about us, no doubt.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
Erhart has spoken of it in his letters. He said that his father
generally remained by himself--up there--and you alone down here.

MRS. BORKMAN.
Yes; that is how it has been, Ella, ever since they let him out,
and sent him home to me. All these long eight years.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
I never believed it could really be so. It seemed impossible!

MRS. BORKMAN.
[Nods.] It is so; and it can never be otherwise.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
[Looking at her.] This must be a terrible life, Gunhild.