MRS. WILTON.
[Gaily.] What nonsense! Not get out of it! When I make my
entrance into the festive halls--just imagine it!--deserted and
forlorn--then I must simply say "No" for you.

ERHART.
[Hesitatingly.] Well, if you really think I can get out of
it----

MRS. WILTON.
[Putting the matter lightly aside.] I am quite used to saying
both yes and no--on my own account. And you can't possibly think
of leaving your aunt the moment she has arrived! For shame,
Monsieur Erhart! Would that be behaving like a good son?

MRS. BORKMAN.
[Annoyed.] Son?

MRS. WILTON.
Well, adopted son then, Mrs. Borkman.

MRS. BORKMAN.
Yes, you may well add that.

MRS. WILTON.
Oh, it seems to me we have often more cause to be grateful to
a foster-mother than to our own mother.

MRS. BORKMAN.
Has that been your experience?