equally at home in any latitude. And that is only an additional
reason for our being all the more keen, Hovstad. Is there to be
anything of public interest in tomorrow's "Messenger"?

Hovstad. Nothing about municipal affairs. But the day after
tomorrow I was thinking of printing your article--

Dr. Stockmann. Ah, devil take it--my article! Look here, that
must wait a bit.

Hovstad. Really? We had just got convenient space for it, and I
thought it was just the opportune moment--

Dr. Stockmann. Yes, yes, very likely you are right; but it must
wait all the same. I will explain to you later. (PETRA comes in
from the hall, in hat and cloak and with a bundle of exercise
books under her arm.)

Petra. Good evening.

Dr. Stockmann. Good evening, Petra; come along.

(Mutual greetings; PETRA takes off her things and puts them down
on a chair by the door.)

Petra. And you have all been sitting here enjoying yourselves,
while I have been out slaving!

Dr. Stockmann. Well, come and enjoy yourself too!