Oh, it doesn't matter! They soon put you at your ease in that
house! They are such cheerful, hospitable people--the house swarms
with young ladies.

MRS. BORKMAN.
[With emphasis.] If I know my son rightly, Mrs. Wilton, they
are no fit company for him.

MRS. WILTON.
Why, good gracious, dear lady, he is young, too, you know!

MRS. BORKMAN.
Yes, fortunately he's young. He would need to be young.

ERHART.
[Concealing his impatience.] Well, well, well, mother, it's
quite clear I can't got to the Hinkels' this evening. Of course
I shall remain here with you and Aunt Ella.

MRS. BORKMAN.
I knew you would, my dear Erhart.

ELLA RENTHEIM.
No, Erhart, you must not stop at home on my account----

ERHART.
Yes, indeed, my dear Aunt; I can't think of going. [Looking
doubtfully at MRS. WILTON.] But how shall we manage? Can I get
out of it? You have said "Yes" for me, haven't you?