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Pillars of Society by Henrik Ibsen
page 78 of 166 (46%)

Mrs. Bernick: And to think how magnanimously he has forgiven
you--he, who had never done any wrong! It was not his fault that
you encouraged yourself with hopes. But since then you have
always hated me too. (Bursts into tears.) You have always begrudged
me my good fortune. And now you come here to heap all this on my
head--to let the whole town know what sort of a family I have
brought Karsten into. Yes, it is me that it all falls upon, and
that is what you want. Oh, it is abominable of you! (Goes out by
the door on the left, in tears.)

Lona (looking after her): Poor Betty! (BERNICK comes in from his
room. He stops at the door to speak to KRAP.)

Bernick: Yes, that is excellent, Krap--capital! Send twenty pounds
to the fund for dinners to the poor. (Turns round.) Lona! (Comes
forward.) Are you alone? Is Betty not coming in?

Lona: No. Would you like me to call her?

Bernick: No, no--not at all. Oh, Lona, you don't know how anxious
I have been to speak openly to you--after having begged for your
forgiveness.

Lona: Look here, Karsten--do not let us be sentimental; it
doesn't suit us.

Bernick: You must listen to me, Lona. I know only too well how
much appearances are against me, as you have learnt all about
that affair with Dina's mother. But I swear to you that it was
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