flower in his button-hole, and carries a large, handsome bouquet
done up in paper and silk ribbons. He stands somewhat
hesitatingly and undecidedly by the verandah.)

Ellida (from the arbour). Have you come to see the girls, Mr.
Lyngstrand?

Lyngstrand (turning round). Ah, madam, are you there? (Bows, and
comes nearer.) No, it's not that. It's not the young ladies. It's
you yourself, Mrs. Wangel. You know you gave me permission to
come and see you-

Ellida. Of course I did. You are always welcome here.

Lyngstrand. Thanks; and as it falls out so luckily that it's a
festival here today--

Ellida. Oh! Do you know about that?

Lyngstrand. Rather! And so I should like to take the liberty of
presenting this to Mrs. Wangel. (Bows, and offers her the
bouquet.)

Ellida (smiling). But, my dear Mr. Lyngstrand, oughtn't you to
give these lovely flowers to Mr. Arnholm himself? For you know
it's really he-

Lyngstrand (looking uncertainly at both of them). Excuse me,
but I don't know this gentleman. It's only--I've only come about
the birthday, Mrs. Wangel.