Hovstad. Did they show any ability or knowledge when they laid
the conduit pipes where they are now?

Dr. Stockmann. No, of course that was a great piece of stupidity
on their part. But that is going to be set right now.

Hovstad. Do you think that will be all such plain sailing?

Dr. Stockmann. Plain sailing or no, it has got to be done,
anyway.

Hovstad. Yes, provided the press takes up the question.

Dr. Stockmann. I don't think that will be necessary, my dear
fellow, I am certain my brother--

Hovstad. Excuse me, doctor; I feel bound to tell you I am
inclined to take the matter up.

Dr. Stockmann. In the paper?

Hovstad. Yes. When I took over the "People's Messenger" my idea
was to break up this ring of self-opinionated old fossils who had
got hold of all the influence.

Dr. Stockmann. But you know you told me yourself what the result
had been; you nearly ruined your paper.

Hovstad. Yes, at the time we were obliged to climb down a peg or