Lona: Why, of course, Rummel and Sandstad and Vigeland.

Bernick: To get them on my side I was obliged to let them into
the secret.

Lona: And they?

Bernick: They have stipulated for a fifth part of the profits as
their share.

Lona: Oh, these pillars of society.

Bernick: And isn't it society itself that forces us to use these
underhanded means? What would have happened if I had not acted
secretly? Everybody would have wanted to have a hand in the
undertaking; the whole thing would have been divided up,
mismanaged and bungled. There is not a single man in the town
except myself who is capable of directing so big an affair as
this will be. In this country, almost without exception, it is
only foreigners who have settled here who have the aptitude for
big business schemes. That is the reason why my conscience
acquits me in the matter. It is only in my hands that these
properties can become a real blessing to the many who have to
make their daily bread.

Lona: I believe you are right there, Karsten.

Johan: But I have no concern with the many, and my life's
happiness is at stake.