ELLA RENTHEIM.
It is only a dream that you cherish. For if you hadn't that to
cling to, you feel that you would utterly despair.

MRS. BORKMAN.
Yes, indeed I should despair. [Vehemently.] And I daresay that
is what you would like to see, Ella!

ELLA RENTHEIM.
[With head erect.] Yes, I would rather see that than see you
"redeem" yourself at Erhart's expense.

MRS. BORKMAN.
[Threateningly.] You want to come between us? Between mother
and son? You?

ELLA RENTHEIM.
I want to free him from your power--your will--your despotism.

MRS. BORKMAN.
[Triumphantly.] You are too late! You had him in your nets
all these years--until he was fifteen. But now I have won him
again, you see!

ELLA RENTHEIM.
Then I will win him back from you! [Hoarsely, half whispering.]
We two have fought a life-and-death battle before, Gunhild--for a
man's soul!

MRS. BORKMAN.