Dr. Stockmann. Well, but just come here then. Do you see, we have
got a table-cover?

Peter Stockmann. Yes, I noticed it.

Dr. Stockmann. And we have got a lamp-shade too. Do you see? All
out of Katherine's savings! It makes the room so cosy. Don't you
think so? Just stand here for a moment--no, no, not there--just
here, that's it! Look now, when you get the light on it
altogether. I really think it looks very nice, doesn't it?

Peter Stockmann. Oh, if you can afford luxuries of this kind--

Dr. Stockmann. Yes, I can afford it now. Katherine tells me I
earn almost as much as we spend.

Peter Stockmann. Almost--yes!

Dr. Stockmann. But a scientific man must live in a little bit of
style. I am quite sure an ordinary civil servant spends more in a
year than I do.

Peter Stockmann. I daresay. A civil servant--a man in a well-paid
position...

Dr. Stockmann. Well, any ordinary merchant, then! A man in that
position spends two or three times as much as--

Peter Stockmann. It just depends on circumstances.