friends any unnecessary pain. I thought I should be able to live
my life here as I have done hitherto--peacefully and happily. I
wanted to read, and absorb myself in all the works that so far
had been sealed books to me--to familiarise myself thoroughly with
the great world of truth and freedom that has been disclosed to
me now.

Kroll. An apostate. Every word you say bears witness to that.
But, for all that, why have you made this confession of your
secret apostasy? Or why just at the present moment?

Rosmer. You yourself have compelled me to it, Kroll.

Kroll. I? I have compelled you?

Rosmer. When I heard of your violent behaviour at public
meetings--when I read the reports of all the vehement speeches you
made there of all your bitter attacks upon those that were on the
other side--your scornful censure of your opponents--oh, Kroll, to
think that you--you--could be the man to do that!--then my eyes were
opened to my imperative duty. Mankind is suffering from the
strife that is going on now, and we ought to bring peace and
happiness and a spirit of reconciliation into their souls. That
is why I step forward now and confess myself openly for what I
am--and, besides, I want to put my powers to the test, as well as
others. Could not you--from your side--go with me in that, Kroll?

Kroll. Never, as long as I live, will I make any alliance with
the forces of disorder in the community.