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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/4093-h.zip b/4093-h.zip Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..63d2b98 --- /dev/null +++ b/4093-h.zip diff --git a/4093-h/4093-h.htm b/4093-h/4093-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..43d433e --- /dev/null +++ b/4093-h/4093-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,12045 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Hedda Gabler, by Henrik Ibsen + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hedda Gabler, by Henrik Ibsen + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Hedda Gabler + Play In Four Acts + +Author: Henrik Ibsen + +Translator: Edmund Gosse and William Archer + +Release Date: January 4, 2010 [EBook #4093] +[Last Updated: January 12, 2023] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEDDA GABLER *** + + + + +Produced by Douglas Levy, for Nikki; and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + HEDDA GABLER + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Henrik Ibsen + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Translated by Edmund Gosse and William Archer + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Contents + </h2> + <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto"> + <tr> + <td> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_INTR"> INTRODUCTION. </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> <b>HEDDA GABLER.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> ACT FIRST. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> ACT SECOND. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> ACT THIRD. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> ACT FOURTH. </a> + </p> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_INTR" id="link2H_INTR"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + INTRODUCTION <br /> by William Archer + </h2> + <p> + From Munich, on June 29, 1890, Ibsen wrote to the Swedish poet, Count Carl + Soilsky: "Our intention has all along been to spend the summer in the + Tyrol again. But circumstances are against our doing so. I am at present + engaged upon a new dramatic work, which for several reasons has made very + slow progress, and I do not leave Munich until I can take with me the + completed first draft. There is little or no prospect of my being able to + complete it in July." Ibsen did not leave Munich at all that season. On + October 30 he wrote: "At present I am utterly engrossed in a new play. Not + one leisure hour have I had for several months." Three weeks later + (November 20) he wrote to his French translator, Count Prozor: "My new + play is finished; the manuscript went off to Copenhagen the day before + yesterday.... It produces a curious feeling of emptiness to be thus + suddenly separated from a work which has occupied one's time and thoughts + for several months, to the exclusion of all else. But it is a good thing, + too, to have done with it. The constant intercourse with the fictitious + personages was beginning to make me quite nervous." To the same + correspondent he wrote on December 4: "The title of the play is <i>Hedda + Gabler</i>. My intention in giving it this name was to indicate that + Hedda, as a personality, is to be regarded rather as her father's daughter + than as her husband's wife. It was not my desire to deal in this play with + so-called problems. What I principally wanted to do was to depict human + beings, human emotions, and human destinies, upon a groundwork of certain + of the social conditions and principles of the present day." + </p> + <p> + So far we read the history of the play in the official "Correspondence."<a + name="H1" id="H1"></a>(<a href="#linka">A</a>) Some interesting + glimpses into the poet's moods during the period between the completion of + <i>The Lady from the Sea</i> and the publication of <i>Hedda Gabler</i> + are to be found in the series of letters to Fraulein Emilie Bardach, of + Vienna, published by Dr. George Brandes.<a name="H2" id="H2"></a>(<a + href="#linkb">B</a>) This young lady Ibsen met at Gossensass in the Tyrol + in the autumn of 1889. The record of their brief friendship belongs to the + history of <i>The Master Builder</i> rather than to that of <i>Hedda + Gabler</i>, but the allusions to his work in his letters to her during the + winter of 1889 demand some examination. + </p> + <p> + So early as October 7, 1889, he writes to her: "A new poem begins to dawn + in me. I will execute it this winter, and try to transfer to it the bright + atmosphere of the summer. But I feel that it will end in sadness—such + is my nature." Was this "dawning" poem <i>Hedda Gabler</i>? Or was it + rather <i>The Master Builder</i> that was germinating in his mind? Who + shall say? The latter hypothesis seems the more probable, for it is hard + to believe that at any stage in the incubation of <i>Hedda Gabler</i> he + can have conceived it as even beginning in gaiety. A week later, however, + he appears to have made up his mind that the time had not come for the + poetic utilisation of his recent experiences. He writes on October 15: + "Here I sit as usual at my writing-table. Now I would fain work, but am + unable to. My fancy, indeed, is very active. But it always wanders away + ours. I cannot repress my summer memories—nor do I wish to. I live + through my experience again and again and yet again. To transmute it all + into a poem, I find, in the meantime, impossible." Clearly, then, he felt + that his imagination ought to have been engaged on some theme having no + relation to his summer experiences—the theme, no doubt, of <i>Hedda + Gabler</i>. In his next letter, dated October 29, he writes: "Do not be + troubled because I cannot, in the meantime, create (<i>dichten</i>). In + reality I am for ever creating, or, at any rate, dreaming of something + which, when in the fulness of time it ripens, will reveal itself as a + creation (<i>Dichtung</i>)." On November 19 he says: "I am very busily + occupied with preparations for my new poem. I sit almost the whole day at + my writing-table. Go out only in the evening for a little while." The five + following letters contain no allusion to the play; but on September 18, + 1890, he wrote: "My wife and son are at present at Riva, on the Lake of + Garda, and will probably remain there until the middle of October, or even + longer. Thus I am quite alone here, and cannot get away. The new play on + which I am at present engaged will probably not be ready until November, + though I sit at my writing-table daily, and almost the whole day long." + </p> + <p> + Here ends the history of <i>Hedda Gabler</i>, so far as the poet's letters + carry us. Its hard clear outlines, and perhaps somewhat bleak atmosphere, + seem to have resulted from a sort of reaction against the sentimental + "dreamery" begotten of his Gossensass experiences. He sought refuge in the + chill materialism of Hedda from the ardent transcendentalism of Hilda, + whom he already heard knocking at the door. He was not yet in the mood to + deal with her on the plane of poetry.<a name="H3" id="H3"></a>(<a + href="#linkc">C</a>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Hedda Gabler</i> was published in Copenhagen on December 16, 1890. This + was the first of Ibsen's plays to be translated from proof-sheets and + published in England and America almost simultaneously with its first + appearance in Scandinavia. The earliest theatrical performance took place + at the Residenz Theater, Munich, on the last day of January 1891, in the + presence of the poet, Frau Conrad-Ramlo playing the title-part. The + Lessing Theater, Berlin, followed suit on February 10. Not till February + 25 was the play seen in Copenhagen, with Fru Hennings as Hedda. On the + following night it was given for the first time in Christiania, the + Norwegian Hedda being Froken Constance Bruun. It was this production which + the poet saw when he visited the Christiania Theater for the first time + after his return to Norway, August 28, 1891. It would take pages to give + even the baldest list of the productions and revivals of <i>Hedda Gabler</i> + in Scandinavia and Germany, where it has always ranked among Ibsen's most + popular works. The admirable production of the play by Miss Elizabeth + Robins and Miss Marion Lea, at the Vaudeville Theatre, London, April 20, + 1891, may rank as the second great step towards the popularisation of + Ibsen in England, the first being the Charrington-Achurch production of <i>A + Doll's House</i> in 1889. Miss Robins afterwards repeated her fine + performance of Hedda many times, in London, in the English provinces, and + in New York. The character has also been acted in London by Eleonora Duse, + and as I write (March, 5, 1907) by Mrs. Patrick Campbell, at the Court + Theatre. In Australia and America, Hedda has frequently been acted by Miss + Nance O'Neill and other actresses—quite recently by a Russian + actress, Madame Alla Nazimova, who (playing in English) seems to have made + a notable success both in this part and in Nora. The first French Hedda + Gabler was Mlle. Marthe Brandes, who played the part at the Vaudeville + Theatre, Paris, on December 17, 1891, the performance being introduced by + a lecture by M. Jules Lemaitre. In Holland, in Italy, in Russia, the play + has been acted times without number. In short (as might easily have been + foretold) it has rivalled <i>A Doll's House</i> in world-wide popularity. + </p> + <p> + It has been suggested,<a name="H4" id="H4"></a>(<a href="#linkd">D</a>) + I think without sufficient ground, that Ibsen deliberately conceived <i>Hedda + Gabler</i> as an "international" play, and that the scene is really the + "west end" of any European city. To me it seems quite clear that Ibsen had + Christiania in mind, and the Christiania of a somewhat earlier period than + the 'nineties. The electric cars, telephones, and other conspicuous + factors in the life of a modern capital are notably absent from the play. + There is no electric light in Secretary Falk's villa. It is still the + habit for ladies to return on foot from evening parties, with gallant + swains escorting them. This "suburbanism," which so distressed the London + critics of 1891, was characteristic of the Christiania Ibsen himself had + known in the 'sixties—the Christiania of <i>Love's Comedy</i>—rather + than of the greatly extended and modernised city of the end of the + century. Moreover Lovborg's allusions to the fiord, and the suggested + picture of Sheriff Elvsted, his family and his avocations are all + distinctively Norwegian. The truth seems to be very simple—the + environment and the subsidiary personages are all thoroughly national, but + Hedda herself is an "international" type, a product of civilisation by no + means peculiar to Norway. + </p> + <p> + We cannot point to any individual model or models who "sat to" Ibsen for + the character of Hedda.<a name="H5" id="H5"></a>(<a href="#linke">E</a>) + The late Grant Allen declared that Hedda was "nothing more nor less than + the girl we take down to dinner in London nineteen times out of twenty"; + in which case Ibsen must have suffered from a superfluidity of models, + rather than from any difficulty in finding one. But the fact is that in + this, as in all other instances, the word "model" must be taken in a very + different sense from that in which it is commonly used in painting. Ibsen + undoubtedly used models for this trait and that, but never for a whole + figure. If his characters can be called portraits at all, they are + composite portraits. Even when it seems pretty clear that the initial + impulse towards the creation of a particular character came from some + individual, the original figure is entirely transmuted in the process of + harmonisation with the dramatic scheme. We need not, therefore, look for a + definite prototype of Hedda; but Dr. Brandes shows that two of that lady's + exploits were probably suggested by the anecdotic history of the day. + </p> + <p> + Ibsen had no doubt heard how the wife of a well-known Norwegian composer, + in a fit of raging jealousy excited by her husband's prolonged absence + from home, burnt the manuscript of a symphony which he had just finished. + The circumstances under which Hedda burns Lovborg's manuscript are, of + course, entirely different and infinitely more dramatic; but here we have + merely another instance of the dramatisation or "poetisation" of the raw + material of life. Again, a still more painful incident probably came to + his knowledge about the same time. A beautiful and very intellectual woman + was married to a well-known man who had been addicted to drink, but had + entirely conquered the vice. One day a mad whim seized her to put his + self-mastery and her power over him to the test. As it happened to be his + birthday, she rolled into his study a small keg of brandy, and then + withdrew. She returned some time after wards to find that he had broached + the keg, and lay insensible on the floor. In this anecdote we cannot but + recognise the germ, not only of Hedda's temptation of Lovborg, but of a + large part of her character. + </p> + <p> + "Thus," says Dr. Brandes, "out of small and scattered traits of reality + Ibsen fashioned his close-knit and profoundly thought-out works of art." + </p> + <p> + For the character of Eilert Lovborg, again, Ibsen seem unquestionably to + have borrowed several traits from a definite original. A young Danish man + of letters, whom Dr. Brandes calls Holm, was an enthusiastic admirer of + Ibsen, and came to be on very friendly terms with him. One day Ibsen was + astonished to receive, in Munich, a parcel addressed from Berlin by this + young man, containing, without a word of explanation, a packet of his + (Ibsen's) letters, and a photograph which he had presented to Holm. Ibsen + brooded and brooded over the incident, and at last came to the conclusion + that the young man had intended to return her letters and photograph to a + young lady to whom he was known to be attached, and had in a fit of + aberration mixed up the two objects of his worship. Some time after, Holm + appeared at Ibsen's rooms. He talked quite rationally, but professed to + have no knowledge whatever of the letter-incident, though he admitted the + truth of Ibsen's conjecture that the "belle dame sans merci" had demanded + the return of her letters and portrait. Ibsen was determined to get at the + root of the mystery; and a little inquiry into his young friend's habits + revealed the fact that he broke his fast on a bottle of port wine, + consumed a bottle of Rhine wine at lunch, of Burgundy at dinner, and + finished off the evening with one or two more bottles of port. Then he + heard, too, how, in the course of a night's carouse, Holm had lost the + manuscript of a book; and in these traits he saw the outline of the figure + of Eilert Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + Some time elapsed, and again Ibsen received a postal packet from Holm. + This one contained his will, in which Ibsen figured as his residuary + legatee. But many other legatees were mentioned in the instrument—all + of them ladies, such as Fraulein Alma Rothbart, of Bremen, and Fraulein + Elise Kraushaar, of Berlin. The bequests to these meritorious spinsters + were so generous that their sum considerably exceeded the amount of the + testator's property. Ibsen gently but firmly declined the proffered + inheritance; but Holm's will no doubt suggested to him the figure of that + red-haired "Mademoiselle Diana," who is heard of but not seen in <i>Hedda + Gabler</i>, and enabled him to add some further traits to the portraiture + of Lovborg. When the play appeared, Holm recognised himself with glee in + the character of the bibulous man of letters, and thereafter adopted + "Eilert Lovborg" as his pseudonym. I do not, therefore, see why Dr. + Brandes should suppress his real name; but I willingly imitate him in + erring on the side of discretion. The poor fellow died several years ago. + </p> + <p> + Some critics have been greatly troubled as to the precise meaning of + Hedda's fantastic vision of Lovborg "with vine-leaves in his hair." Surely + this is a very obvious image or symbol of the beautiful, the ideal, aspect + of bacchic elation and revelry. Antique art, or I am much mistaken, shows + us many figures of Dionysus himself and his followers with vine-leaves + entwined their hair. To Ibsen's mind, at any rate, the image had long been + familiar. In <i>Peer Gynt</i> (Act iv. sc. 8), when Peer, having carried + off Anitra, finds himself in a particularly festive mood, he cries: "Were + there vine-leaves around, I would garland my brow." Again, in <i>Emperor + and Galilean</i> (Pt. ii. Act 1) where Julian, in the procession of + Dionysus, impersonates the god himself, it is directed that he shall wear + a wreath of vine-leaves. Professor Dietrichson relates that among the + young artists whose society Ibsen frequented during his first years in + Rome, it was customary, at their little festivals, for the revellers to + deck themselves in this fashion. But the image is so obvious that there is + no need to trace it to any personal experience. The attempt to place + Hedda's vine-leaves among Ibsen's obscurities is an example of the firm + resolution not to understand which animated the criticism of the + 'nineties. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Brandes has dealt very severely with the character of Eilert Lovborg, + alleging that we cannot believe in the genius attributed to him. But where + is he described as a genius? The poet represents him as a very able + student of sociology; but that is quite a different thing from attributing + to him such genius as must necessarily shine forth in every word he + utters. Dr. Brandes, indeed, declines to believe even in his ability as a + sociologist, on the ground that it is idle to write about the social + development of the future. "To our prosaic minds," he says, "it may seem + as if the most sensible utterance on the subject is that of the fool of + the play: 'The future! Good heavens, we know nothing of the future.'" The + best retort to this criticism is that which Eilert himself makes: "There's + a thing or two to be said about it all the same." The intelligent + forecasting of the future (as Mr. H. G. Wells has shown) is not only + clearly distinguishable from fantastic Utopianism, but is indispensable to + any large statesmanship or enlightened social activity. With very real and + very great respect for Dr. Brandes, I cannot think that he has been + fortunate in his treatment of Lovborg's character. It has been represented + as an absurdity that he would think of reading abstracts from his new book + to a man like Tesman, whom he despises. But though Tesman is a ninny, he + is, as Hedda says, a "specialist"—he is a competent, plodding + student of his subject. Lovborg may quite naturally wish to see how his + new method, or his excursion into a new field, strikes the average scholar + of the Tesman type. He is, in fact, "trying it on the dog"—neither + an unreasonable nor an unusual proceeding. There is, no doubt, a certain + improbability in the way in which Lovborg is represented as carrying his + manuscript around, and especially in Mrs. Elvsted's production of his + rough draft from her pocket; but these are mechanical trifles, on which + only a niggling criticism would dream of laying stress. + </p> + <p> + Of all Ibsen's works, <i>Hedda Gabler</i> is the most detached, the most + objective—a character-study pure and simple. It is impossible—or + so it seems to me—to extract any sort of general idea from it. One + cannot even call it a satire, unless one is prepared to apply that term to + the record of a "case" in a work of criminology. Reverting to Dumas's + dictum that a play should contain "a painting, a judgment, an ideal," we + may say the <i>Hedda Gabler</i> fulfils only the first of these + requirements. The poet does not even pass judgment on his heroine: he + simply paints her full-length portrait with scientific impassivity. But + what a portrait! How searching in insight, how brilliant in colouring, how + rich in detail! Grant Allen's remark, above quoted, was, of course, a + whimsical exaggeration; the Hedda type is not so common as all that, else + the world would quickly come to an end. But particular traits and + tendencies of the Hedda type are very common in modern life, and not only + among women. Hyperaesthesia lies at the root of her tragedy. With a keenly + critical, relentlessly solvent intelligence, she combines a morbid + shrinking from all the gross and prosaic detail of the sensual life. She + has nothing to take her out of herself—not a single intellectual + interest or moral enthusiasm. She cherishes, in a languid way, a petty + social ambition; and even that she finds obstructed and baffled. At the + same time she learns that another woman has had the courage to love and + venture all, where she, in her cowardice, only hankered and refrained. Her + malign egoism rises up uncontrolled, and calls to its aid her quick and + subtle intellect. She ruins the other woman's happiness, but in doing so + incurs a danger from which her sense of personal dignity revolts. Life has + no such charm for her that she cares to purchase it at the cost of squalid + humiliation and self-contempt. The good and the bad in her alike impel her + to have done with it all; and a pistol-shot ends what is surely one of the + most poignant character-tragedies in literature. Ibsen's brain never + worked at higher pressure than in the conception and adjustment of those + "crowded hours" in which Hedda, tangled in the web of Will and + Circumstance, struggles on till she is too weary to struggle any more. + </p> + <p> + It may not be superfluous to note that the "a" in "Gabler" should be + sounded long and full, like the "a" in "Garden"—NOT like the "a" in + "gable" or in "gabble." + </p> + <p> + W. A. + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FOOTNOTES. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <a href="#H1">(A)</a><a name="linka" id="linka"></a>Letters 214, 216, 217, 219. + + <a href="#H2">(B)</a><a name="linkb" id="linkb"></a>In the Ibsen volume of <i>Die Literatur</i> (Berlin). + + <a href="#H3">(C)</a><a name="linkc" id="linkc"></a>Dr. Julius Elias (<i>Neue deutsche Rundschau</i>, December 1906, p. 1462) + makes the curious assertion that the character of Thea Elvsted was + in part borrowed from this "Gossensasser Hildetypus." It is hard to + see how even Gibes' ingenuity could distil from the same flower two + such different essences as Thea and Hilda. + + <a href="#H4">(D)</a><a name="linkd" id="linkd"></a>See article by Herman Bang in <i>Neue deutsche Rundschau</i>, December + 1906, p. 1495. + + <a href="#H5">(E)</a><a name="linke" id="linke"></a>Dr. Brahm (<i>Neue deutsche Rundschau</i>, December 1906, P. 1422) says + that after the first performance of <i>Hedda Gabler</i> in Berlin Ibsen + confided to him that the character had been suggested by a German + lady whom he met in Munich, and who did not shoot, but poisoned + herself. Nothing more seems to be known of this lady. See, too, + an article by Julius Elias in the same magazine, p. 1460. +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="mynote"> + <p> + Transcriber's Note: + </p> + <p> + The inclusion or omission of commas between repeated words ("well, + well"; "there there", etc.) in this etext is reproduced faithfully from + both the 1914 and 1926 editions of <i>Hedda Gabler</i>, copyright 1907 + by Charles Scribner's Sons. Modern editions of the same translation use + the commas consistently throughout.—D.L. + </p> + <br /> + </div> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + HEDDA GABLER. + </h2> + <h3> + PLAY IN FOUR ACTS. + </h3> + <p> + CHARACTERS. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN.* + HEDDA TESMAN, his wife. + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, his aunt. + MRS. ELVSTED. + JUDGE** BRACK. + EILERT LOVBORG. + BERTA, servant at the Tesmans. + + *Tesman, whose Christian name in the original is "Jorgen," is + described as "stipendiat i kulturhistorie"—that is to say, the + holder of a scholarship for purposes of research into the History + of Civilisation. + + **In the original "Assessor." +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The scene of the action is Tesman's villa, in the west end + of Christiania. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT FIRST. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A spacious, handsome, and tastefully furnished drawing room, + decorated in dark colours. In the back, a wide doorway with + curtains drawn back, leading into a smaller room decorated + in the same style as the drawing-room. In the right-hand + wall of the front room, a folding door leading out to the + hall. In the opposite wall, on the left, a glass door, also + with curtains drawn back. Through the panes can be seen + part of a verandah outside, and trees covered with autumn + foliage. An oval table, with a cover on it, and surrounded + by chairs, stands well forward. In front, by the wall on + the right, a wide stove of dark porcelain, a high-backed + arm-chair, a cushioned foot-rest, and two footstools. A + settee, with a small round table in front of it, fills the + upper right-hand corner. In front, on the left, a little + way from the wall, a sofa. Further back than the glass + door, a piano. On either side of the doorway at the back + a whatnot with terra-cotta and majolica ornaments.— + Against the back wall of the inner room a sofa, with a + table, and one or two chairs. Over the sofa hangs the + portrait of a handsome elderly man in a General's uniform. + Over the table a hanging lamp, with an opal glass shade.—A + number of bouquets are arranged about the drawing-room, in + vases and glasses. Others lie upon the tables. The floors + in both rooms are covered with thick carpets.—Morning light. + The sun shines in through the glass door. + + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, with her bonnet on a carrying a parasol, + comes in from the hall, followed by BERTA, who carries a + bouquet wrapped in paper. MISS TESMAN is a comely and pleasant- + looking lady of about sixty-five. She is nicely but simply + dressed in a grey walking-costume. BERTA is a middle-aged + woman of plain and rather countrified appearance. +</pre> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Stops close to the door, listens, and says softly:] Upon my word, I don't + believe they are stirring yet! + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Also softly.] I told you so, Miss. Remember how late the steamboat got in + last night. And then, when they got home!—good Lord, what a lot the + young mistress had to unpack before she could get to bed. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well well—let them have their sleep out. But let us see that they + get a good breath of the fresh morning air when they do appear. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes to the glass door and throws it open. +</pre> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Beside the table, at a loss what to do with the bouquet in her hand.] I + declare there isn't a bit of room left. I think I'll put it down here, + Miss. [She places it on the piano. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + So you've got a new mistress now, my dear Berta. Heaven knows it was a + wrench to me to part with you. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [On the point of weeping.] And do you think it wasn't hard for me, too, + Miss? After all the blessed years I've been with you and Miss Rina.<a + name="H1a" id="H1a"></a>(<a href="#link1">1</a>)) + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + We must make the best of it, Berta. There was nothing else to be done. + George can't do without you, you see-he absolutely can't. He has had you + to look after him ever since he was a little boy. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Ah but, Miss Julia, I can't help thinking of Miss Rina lying helpless at + home there, poor thing. And with only that new girl too! She'll never + learn to take proper care of an invalid. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I shall manage to train her. And of course, you know, I shall take + most of it upon myself. You needn't be uneasy about my poor sister, my + dear Berta. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Well, but there's another thing, Miss. I'm so mortally afraid I shan't be + able to suit the young mistress. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh well—just at first there may be one or two things— + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Most like she'll be terrible grand in her ways. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, you can't wonder at that—General Gabler's daughter! Think of + the sort of life she was accustomed to in her father's time. Don't you + remember how we used to see her riding down the road along with the + General? In that long black habit—and with feathers in her hat? + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, indeed—I remember well enough!—But, good Lord, I should + never have dreamt in those days that she and Master George would make a + match of it. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Nor I.—But by-the-bye, Berta—while I think of it: in future + you mustn't say Master George. You must say Dr. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, the young mistress spoke of that too—last night—the + moment they set foot in the house. Is it true then, Miss? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, indeed it is. Only think, Berta—some foreign university has + made him a doctor—while he has been abroad, you understand. I hadn't + heard a word about it, until he told me himself upon the pier. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Well well, he's clever enough for anything, he is. But I didn't think he'd + have gone in for doctoring people. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No no, it's not that sort of doctor he is. [Nods significantly.] But let + me tell you, we may have to call him something still grander before long. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + You don't say so! What can that be, Miss? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling.] H'm—wouldn't you like to know! [With emotion.] Ah, dear + dear—if my poor brother could only look up from his grave now, and + see what his little boy has grown into! [Looks around.] But bless me, + Berta—why have you done this? Taken the chintz covers off all the + furniture. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + The mistress told me to. She can't abide covers on the chairs, she says. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Are they going to make this their everyday sitting-room then? + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that's what I understood—from the mistress. Master George—the + doctor—he said nothing. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN comes from the right into the inner room, + humming to himself, and carrying an unstrapped empty + portmanteau. He is a middle-sized, young-looking man of + thirty-three, rather stout, with a round, open, cheerful + face, fair hair and beard. He wears spectacles, and is + somewhat carelessly dressed in comfortable indoor clothes. +</pre> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Good morning, good morning, George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [In the doorway between the rooms.] Aunt Julia! Dear Aunt Julia! [Goes up + to her and shakes hands warmly.] Come all this way—so early! Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, of course I had to come and see how you were getting on. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + In spite of your having had no proper night's rest? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, that makes no difference to me. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, I suppose you got home all right from the pier? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, quite safely, thank goodness. Judge Brack was good enough to see me + right to my door. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + We were so sorry we couldn't give you a seat in the carriage. But you saw + what a pile of boxes Hedda had to bring with her. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, she had certainly plenty of boxes. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [To TESMAN.] Shall I go in and see if there's anything I can do for the + mistress? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No thank you, Berta—you needn't. She said she would ring if she + wanted anything. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Going towards the right.] Very well. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But look here—take this portmanteau with you. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Taking it.] I'll put it in the attic. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes out by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy, Auntie—I had the whole of that portmanteau chock full of + copies of the documents. You wouldn't believe how much I have picked up + from all the archives I have been examining—curious old details that + no one has had any idea of— + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you don't seem to have wasted your time on your wedding trip, George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, that I haven't. But do take off your bonnet, Auntie. Look here! Let me + untie the strings—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [While he does so.] Well well—this is just as if you were still at + home with us. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [With the bonnet in his hand, looks at it from all sides.] Why, what a + gorgeous bonnet you've been investing in! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I bought it on Hedda's account. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + On Hedda's account? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so that Hedda needn't be ashamed of me if we happened to go out + together. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Patting her cheek.] You always think of everything, Aunt Julia. [Lays the + bonnet on a chair beside the table.] And now, look here—suppose we + sit comfortably on the sofa and have a little chat, till Hedda comes. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [They seat themselves. She places her parasol in the corner + of the sofa. +</pre> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Takes both his hands and looks at him.] What a delight it is to have you + again, as large as life, before my very eyes, George! My George—my + poor brother's own boy! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And it's a delight for me, too, to see you again, Aunt Julia! You, who + have been father and mother in one to me. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, I know you will always keep a place in your heart for your old + aunts. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And what about Aunt Rina? No improvement—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, no—we can scarcely look for any improvement in her case, poor + thing. There she lies, helpless, as she has lain for all these years. But + heaven grant I may not lose her yet awhile! For if I did, I don't know + what I should make of my life, George—especially now that I haven't + you to look after any more. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Patting her back.] There there there—! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Suddenly changing her tone.] And to think that here are you a married + man, George!—And that you should be the one to carry off Hedda + Gabler —the beautiful Hedda Gabler! Only think of it—she, that + was so beset with admirers! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Hums a little and smiles complacently.] Yes, I fancy I have several good + friends about town who would like to stand in my shoes—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And then this fine long wedding-tour you have had! More than five— + nearly six months— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, for me it has been a sort of tour of research as well. I have had to + do so much grubbing among old records—and to read no end of books + too, Auntie. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, I suppose so. [More confidentially, and lowering her voice a + little.] But listen now, George,—have you nothing—nothing + special to tell me? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + As to our journey? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, I don't know of anything except what I have told you in my letters. I + had a doctor's degree conferred on me—but that I told you yesterday. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, you did. But what I mean is—haven't you any—any— + expectations—? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Expectations? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why you know, George—I'm your old auntie! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, of course I have expectations. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Ah! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I have every expectation of being a professor one of these days. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, a professor— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, I may say I am certain of it. But my dear Auntie—you know + all about that already! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing to herself.] Yes, of course I do. You are quite right there. + [Changing the subject.] But we were talking about your journey. It must + have cost a great deal of money, George? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, you see—my handsome travelling-scholarship went a good way. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But I can't understand how you can have made it go far enough for two. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, that's not easy to understand—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And especially travelling with a lady—they tell me that makes it + ever so much more expensive. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, of course—it makes it a little more expensive. But Hedda had to + have this trip, Auntie! She really had to. Nothing else would have done. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No no, I suppose not. A wedding-tour seems to be quite indispensable + nowadays.—But tell me now—have you gone thoroughly over the + house yet? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you may be sure I have. I have been afoot ever since daylight. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And what do you think of it all? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I'm delighted! Quite delighted! Only I can't think what we are to do with + the two empty rooms between this inner parlour and Hedda's bedroom. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Oh my dear George, I daresay you may find some use for them—in + the course of time. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why of course you are quite right, Aunt Julia! You mean as my library + increases—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, quite so, my dear boy. It was your library I was thinking of. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I am specially pleased on Hedda's account. Often and often, before we were + engaged, she said that she would never care to live anywhere but in + Secretary Falk's villa.<a name="H2a" id="H2a"></a>(<a href="#link2">2</a>) + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, it was lucky that this very house should come into the market, just + after you had started. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, Aunt Julia, the luck was on our side, wasn't it—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But the expense, my dear George! You will find it very expensive, all + this. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her, a little cast down.] Yes, I suppose I shall, Aunt! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, frightfully! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + How much do you think? In round numbers?—Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I can't even guess until all the accounts come in. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, fortunately, Judge Brack has secured the most favourable terms for + me, so he said in a letter to Hedda. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, don't be uneasy, my dear boy.—Besides, I have given security + for the furniture and all the carpets. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Security? You? My dear Aunt Julia—what sort of security could you + give? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I have given a mortgage on our annuity. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Jumps up.] What! On your—and Aunt Rina's annuity! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I knew of no other plan, you see. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Placing himself before her.] Have you gone out of your senses, Auntie? + Your annuity—it's all that you and Aunt Rina have to live upon. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well well—don't get so excited about it. It's only a matter of form + you know—Judge Brack assured me of that. It was he that was kind + enough to arrange the whole affair for me. A mere matter of form, he said. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that may be all very well. But nevertheless— + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + You will have your own salary to depend upon now. And, good heavens, even + if we did have to pay up a little—! To eke things out a bit at the + start—! Why, it would be nothing but a pleasure to us. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh Auntie—will you never be tired of making sacrifices for me! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Rises and lays her hand on his shoulders.] Have I any other happiness in + this world except to smooth your way for you, my dear boy. You, who have + had neither father nor mother to depend on. And now we have reached the + goal, George! Things have looked black enough for us, sometimes; but, + thank heaven, now you have nothing to fear. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, it is really marvellous how every thing has turned out for the best. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And the people who opposed you—who wanted to bar the way for you— + now you have them at your feet. They have fallen, George. Your most + dangerous rival—his fall was the worst.—And now he has to lie + on the bed he has made for himself—poor misguided creature. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Have you heard anything of Eilert? Since I went away, I mean. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Only that he is said to have published a new book. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What! Eilert Lovborg! Recently—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so they say. Heaven knows whether it can be worth anything! Ah, when + your new book appears—that will be another story, George! What is it + to be about? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + It will deal with the domestic industries of Brabant during the Middle + Ages. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy—to be able to write on such a subject as that! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + However, it may be some time before the book is ready. I have all these + collections to arrange first, you see. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, collecting and arranging—no one can beat you at that. There you + are my poor brother's own son. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I am looking forward eagerly to setting to work at it; especially now that + I have my own delightful home to work in. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And, most of all, now that you have got the wife of your heart, my dear + George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Embracing her.] Oh yes, yes, Aunt Julia! Hedda—she is the best part + of it all! I believe I hear her coming—eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + HEDDA enters from the left through the inner room. Her face + and figure show refinement and distinction. Her complexion + is pale and opaque. Her steel-grey eyes express a cold, + unruffled repose. Her hair is of an agreeable brown, but + not particularly abundant. She is dressed in a tasteful, + somewhat loose-fitting morning gown. +</pre> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Going to meet HEDDA.] Good morning, my dear Hedda! Good morning, and a + hearty welcome! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Holds out her hand.] Good morning, dear Miss Tesman! So early a call! + That is kind of you. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [With some embarrassment.] Well—has the bride slept well in her new + home? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, thanks. Passably. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Passably! Come, that's good, Hedda! You were sleeping like a + stone when I got up. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately. Of course one has always to accustom one's self to new + surroundings, Miss Tesman—little by little. [Looking towards the + left.] Oh, there the servant has gone and opened the veranda door, and let + in a whole flood of sunshine. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Going towards the door.] Well, then we will shut it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No no, not that! Tesman, please draw the curtains. That will give a softer + light. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [At the door.] All right—all right.—There now, Hedda, now you + have both shade and fresh air. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, fresh air we certainly must have, with all these stacks of flowers—. + But—won't you sit down, Miss Tesman? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, thank you. Now that I have seen that everything is all right here—thank + heaven!—I must be getting home again. My sister is lying longing for + me, poor thing. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Give her my very best love, Auntie; and say I shall look in and see her + later in the day. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, I'll be sure to tell her. But by-the-bye, George—[Feeling + in her dress pocket]—I had almost forgotten—I have something + for you here. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What is it, Auntie? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Produces a flat parcel wrapped in newspaper and hands it to him.] Look + here, my dear boy. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Opening the parcel.] Well, I declare!—Have you really saved them + for me, Aunt Julia! Hedda! isn't this touching—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Beside the whatnot on the right.] Well, what is it? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + My old morning-shoes! My slippers. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Indeed. I remember you often spoke of them while we were abroad. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I missed them terribly. [Goes up to her.] Now you shall see them, + Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Going towards the stove.] Thanks, I really don't care about it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Following her.] Only think—ill as she was, Aunt Rina embroidered + these for me. Oh you can't think how many associations cling to them. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the table.] Scarcely for me. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Of course not for Hedda, George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, but now that she belongs to the family, I thought— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Interrupting.] We shall never get on with this servant, Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Not get on with Berta? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, dear, what puts that in your head? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Pointing.] Look there! She has left her old bonnet lying about on a + chair. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [In consternation, drops the slippers on the floor.] Why, Hedda— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Just fancy, if any one should come in and see it! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But Hedda—that's Aunt Julia's bonnet. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Is it! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Taking up the bonnet.] Yes, indeed it's mine. And, what's more, it's not + old, Madam Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I really did not look closely at it, Miss Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Trying on the bonnet.] Let me tell you it's the first time I have worn it—the + very first time. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And a very nice bonnet it is too—quite a beauty! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, it's no such great things, George. [Looks around her.] My parasol—? + Ah, here. [Takes it.] For this is mine too— [mutters] —not + Berta's. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + A new bonnet and a new parasol! Only think, Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Very handsome indeed. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, isn't it? Eh? But Auntie, take a good look at Hedda before you go! + See how handsome she is! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, my dear boy, there's nothing new in that. Hedda was always lovely. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She nods and goes toward the right. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Following.] Yes, but have you noticed what splendid condition she is in? + How she has filled out on the journey? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Crossing the room.] Oh, do be quiet—! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Who has stopped and turned.] Filled out? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Of course you don't notice it so much now that she has that dress on. But + I, who can see— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the glass door, impatiently.] Oh, you can't see anything. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + It must be the mountain air in the Tyrol— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Curtly, interrupting.] I am exactly as I was when I started. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + So you insist; but I'm quite certain you are not. Don't you agree with me, + Auntie? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Who has been gazing at her with folded hands.] Hedda is lovely— + lovely—lovely. [Goes up to her, takes her head between both hands, + draws it downwards, and kisses her hair.] God bless and preserve Hedda + Tesman—for George's sake. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Gently freeing herself.] Oh—! Let me go. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [In quiet emotion.] I shall not let a day pass without coming to see you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No you won't, will you, Auntie? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Good-bye—good-bye! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes out by the hall door. TESMAN accompanies her. The + door remains half open. TESMAN can be heard repeating his + message to Aunt Rina and his thanks for the slippers. + + [In the meantime, HEDDA walks about the room, raising her arms + and clenching her hands as if in desperation. Then she flings + back the curtains from the glass door, and stands there looking + out. + + [Presently, TESMAN returns and closes the door behind him. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Picks up the slippers from the floor.] What are you looking at, Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Once more calm and mistress of herself.] I am only looking at the leaves. + They are so yellow—so withered. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Wraps up the slippers and lays them on the table.] Well, you see, we are + well into September now. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Again restless.] Yes, to think of it!—already in—in + September. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Don't you think Aunt Julia's manner was strange, dear? Almost solemn? Can + you imagine what was the matter with her? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I scarcely know her, you see. Is she not often like that? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, not as she was to-day. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Leaving the glass door.] Do you think she was annoyed about the bonnet? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, scarcely at all. Perhaps a little, just at the moment— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But what an idea, to pitch her bonnet about in the drawing-room! No one + does that sort of thing. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well you may be sure Aunt Julia won't do it again. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + In any case, I shall manage to make my peace with her. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, my dear, good Hedda, if you only would. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + When you call this afternoon, you might invite her to spend the evening + here. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that I will. And there's one thing more you could do that would + delight her heart. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What is it? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + If you could only prevail on yourself to say <i>du</i><a name="H3a" + id="H3a"></a>(<a href="#link3">3</a>) to her. For my sake, Hedda? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no, Tesman—you really mustn't ask that of me. I have told you so + already. I shall try to call her "Aunt"; and you must be satisfied with + that. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well well. Only I think now that you belong to the family, you— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + H'm—I can't in the least see why— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes up towards the middle doorway. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [After a pause.] Is there anything the matter with you, Hedda? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I'm only looking at my old piano. It doesn't go at all well with all the + other things. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + The first time I draw my salary, we'll see about exchanging it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no—no exchanging. I don't want to part with it. Suppose we put + it there in the inner room, and then get another here in its place. When + it's convenient, I mean. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [A little taken aback.] Yes—of course we could do that. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Takes up the bouquet from the piano.] These flowers were not here last + night when we arrived. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Julia must have brought them for you. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Examining the bouquet.] A visiting-card. [Takes it out and reads:] "Shall + return later in the day." Can you guess whose card it is? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No. Whose? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The name is "Mrs. Elvsted." + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Is it really? Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Miss Rysing that was. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Exactly. The girl with the irritating hair, that she was always showing + off. An old flame of yours I've been told. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Oh, that didn't last long; and it was before I met you, Hedda. + But fancy her being in town! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + It's odd that she should call upon us. I have scarcely seen her since we + left school. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I haven't see her either for—heaven knows how long. I wonder how she + can endure to live in such an out-of-the way hole—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [After a moment's thought, says suddenly.] Tell me, Tesman—isn't it + somewhere near there that he—that—Eilert Lovborg is living? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, he is somewhere in that part of the country. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BERTA enters by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + That lady, ma'am, that brought some flowers a little while ago, is here + again. [Pointing.] The flowers you have in your hand, ma'am. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah, is she? Well, please show her in. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BERTA opens the door for MRS. ELVSTED, and goes out herself. + —MRS. ELVSTED is a woman of fragile figure, with pretty, + soft features. Her eyes are light blue, large, round, and + somewhat prominent, with a startled, inquiring expression. + Her hair is remarkably light, almost flaxen, and unusually + abundant and wavy. She is a couple of years younger than + HEDDA. She wears a dark visiting dress, tasteful, but not + quite in the latest fashion. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Receives her warmly.] How do you do, my dear Mrs. Elvsted? It's + delightful to see you again. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Nervously, struggling for self-control.] Yes, it's a very long time since + we met. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Gives her his hand.] And we too—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Thanks for your lovely flowers— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, not at all—. I would have come straight here yesterday + afternoon; but I heard that you were away— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Have you just come to town? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I arrived yesterday, about midday. Oh, I was quite in despair when I heard + that you were not at home. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + In despair! How so? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dear Mrs. Rysing—I mean Mrs. Elvsted— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I hope that you are not in any trouble? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am. And I don't know another living creature here that I can turn + to. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Laying the bouquet on the table.] Come—let us sit here on the sofa— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I am too restless to sit down. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, you're not. Come here. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She draws MRS. ELVSTED down upon the sofa and sits at her side. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well? What is it, Mrs. Elvsted—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Has anything particular happened to you at home? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes—and no. Oh—I am so anxious you should not misunderstand me— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then your best plan is to tell us the whole story, Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I suppose that's what you have come for—eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes—of course it is. Well then, I must tell you—if you + don't already know—that Eilert Lovborg is in town, too. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Lovborg—! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What! Has Eilert Lovborg come back? Fancy that, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well well—I hear it. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + He has been here a week already. Just fancy—a whole week! In this + terrible town, alone! With so many temptations on all sides. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But, my dear Mrs. Elvsted—how does he concern you so much? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her with a startled air, and says rapidly.] He was the + children's tutor. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Your children's? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + My husband's. I have none. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Your step-children's, then? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Somewhat hesitatingly.] Then was he—I don't know how to express it—was + he—regular enough in his habits to be fit for the post? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + For the last two years his conduct has been irreproachable. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Has it indeed? Fancy that, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I hear it. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Perfectly irreproachable, I assure you! In every respect. But all the same—now + that I know he is here—in this great town—and with a large sum + of money in his hands—I can't help being in mortal fear for him. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why did he not remain where he was? With you and your husband? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + After his book was published he was too restless and unsettled to remain + with us. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, by-the-bye, Aunt Julia told me he had published a new book. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, a big book, dealing with the march of civilisation—in broad + outline, as it were. It came out about a fortnight ago. And since it has + sold so well, and been so much read—and made such a sensation— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Has it indeed? It must be something he has had lying by since his better + days. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Long ago, you mean? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, he has written it all since he has been with us—within the last + year. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Isn't that good news, Hedda? Think of that. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Ah yes, if only it would last! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Have you seen him here in town? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, not yet. I have had the greatest difficulty in finding out his + address. But this morning I discovered it at last. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks searchingly at her.] Do you know, it seems to me a little odd of + your husband—h'm— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Starting nervously.] Of my husband! What? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That he should send you to town on such an errand—that he does not + come himself and look after his friend. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, no—my husband has no time. And besides, I—I had some + shopping to do. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With a slight smile.] Ah, that is a different matter. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Rising quickly and uneasily.] And now I beg and implore you, Mr. Tesman—receive + Eilert Lovborg kindly if he comes to you! And that he is sure to do. You + see you were such great friends in the old days. And then you are + interested in the same studies—the same branch of science—so + far as I can understand. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + We used to be at any rate. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + That is why I beg so earnestly that you—you too—will keep a + sharp eye upon him. Oh, you will promise me that, Mr. Tesman—won't + you? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + With the greatest of pleasure, Mrs. Rysing— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I assure you I shall do all I possibly can for Eilert. You may rely upon + me. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, how very, very kind of you! [Presses his hands.] Thanks, thanks, + thanks! [Frightened.] You see, my husband is so very fond of him! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] You ought to write to him, Tesman. Perhaps he may not care to + come to you of his own accord. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, perhaps it would be the right thing to do, Hedda? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And the sooner the better. Why not at once? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Imploringly.] Oh, if you only would! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I'll write this moment. Have you his address, Mrs.—Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes. [Takes a slip of paper from her pocket, and hands it to him.] Here it + is. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Good, good. Then I'll go in— [Looks about him.] By-the-bye,—my + slippers? Oh, here. [Takes the packet and is about to go. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Be sure you write him a cordial, friendly letter. And a good long one too. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I will. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + But please, please don't say a word to show that I have suggested it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, how could you think I would? Eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He goes out to the right, through the inner room. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Goes up to MRS. ELVSTED, smiles, and says in a low voice.] There! We have + killed two birds with one stone. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + What do you mean? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Could you not see that I wanted him to go? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, to write the letter— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And that I might speak to you alone. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Confused.] About the same thing? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Precisely. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Apprehensively.] But there is nothing more, Mrs. Tesman! Absolutely + nothing! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, but there is. There is a great deal more—I can see that. Sit + here—and we'll have a cosy, confidential chat. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She forces MRS. ELVSTED to sit in the easy-chair beside the + stove, and seats herself on one of the footstools. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Anxiously, looking at her watch.] But, my dear Mrs. Tesman—I was + really on the point of going. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you can't be in such a hurry.—Well? Now tell me something about + your life at home. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, that is just what I care least to speak about. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But to me, dear—? Why, weren't we schoolfellows? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, but you were in the class above me. Oh, how dreadfully afraid of you + I was then! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Afraid of me? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, dreadfully. For when we met on the stairs you used always to pull my + hair. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Did I, really? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, and once you said you would burn it off my head. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh that was all nonsense, of course. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, but I was so silly in those days.—And since then, too—we + have drifted so far—far apart from each other. Our circles have been + so entirely different. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well then, we must try to drift together again. Now listen. At school we + said <i>du</i><a name="H4a" id="H4a"></a>(<a href="#link4">4</a>) to + each other; and we called each other by our Christian names— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, I am sure you must be mistaken. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, not at all! I can remember quite distinctly. So now we are going to + renew our old friendship. [Draws the footstool closer to MRS. ELVSTED.] + There now! [Kisses her cheek.] You must say <i>du</i> to me and call me + Hedda. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Presses and pats her hands.] Oh, how good and kind you are! I am not used + to such kindness. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + There, there, there! And I shall say <i>du</i> to you, as in the old days, + and call you my dear Thora. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + My name is Thea.<a name="H5a" id="H5a"></a>(<a href="#link5">5</a>) + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why, of course! I meant Thea. [Looks at her compassionately.] So you are + not accustomed to goodness and kindness, Thea? Not in your own home? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, if I only had a home! But I haven't any; I have never had a home. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her for a moment.] I almost suspected as much. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Gazing helplessly before her.] Yes—yes—yes. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I don't quite remember—was it not as housekeeper that you first went + to Mr. Elvsted's? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I really went as governess. But his wife—his late wife—was an + invalid,—and rarely left her room. So I had to look after the + housekeeping as well. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And then—at last—you became mistress of the house. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Sadly.] Yes, I did. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Let me see—about how long ago was that? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + My marriage? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Five years ago. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + To be sure; it must be that. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh those five years—! Or at all events the last two or three of + them! Oh, if you<a name="H6a" id="H6a"></a>(<a href="#link6">6</a>) + could only imagine— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Giving her a little slap on the hand.] De? Fie, Thea! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, I will try—. Well, if—you could only imagine and + understand— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Lightly.] Eilert Lovborg has been in your neighbourhood about three + years, hasn't he? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her doubtfully.] Eilert Lovborg? Yes—he has. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Had you known him before, in town here? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely at all. I mean—I knew him by name of course. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But you saw a good deal of him in the country? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, he came to us every day. You see, he gave the children lessons; for + in the long run I couldn't manage it all myself. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, that's clear.—And your husband—? I suppose he is often + away from home? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes. Being sheriff, you know, he has to travel about a good deal in his + district. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Leaning against the arm of the chair.] Thea—my poor, sweet Thea—now + you must tell me everything—exactly as it stands. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Well, then you must question me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What sort of a man is your husband, Thea? I mean—you know—in + everyday life. Is he kind to you? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Evasively.] I am sure he means well in everything. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I should think he must be altogether too old for you. There is at least + twenty years' difference between you, is there not? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Irritably.] Yes, that is true, too. Everything about him is repellent to + me! We have not a thought in common. We have no single point of sympathy—he + and I. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But is he not fond of you all the same? In his own way? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh I really don't know. I think he regards me simply as a useful property. + And then it doesn't cost much to keep me. I am not expensive. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That is stupid of you. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Shakes her head.] It cannot be otherwise—not with him. I don't + think he really cares for any one but himself—and perhaps a little + for the children. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And for Eilert Lovborg, Thea? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looking at her.] For Eilert Lovborg? What puts that into your head? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, my dear—I should say, when he sends you after him all the way + to town— [Smiling almost imperceptibly.] And besides, you said so + yourself, to Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [With a little nervous twitch.] Did I? Yes, I suppose I did. [Vehemently, + but not loudly.] No—I may just as well make a clean breast of it at + once! For it must all come out in any case. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dear Thea—? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Well, to make a long story short: My husband did not know that I was + coming. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What! Your husband didn't know it! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, of course not. For that matter, he was away from home himself— + he was travelling. Oh, I could bear it no longer, Hedda! I couldn't indeed—so + utterly alone as I should have been in future. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well? And then? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + So I put together some of my things—what I needed most—as + quietly as possible. And then I left the house. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Without a word? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes—and took the train to town. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dear, good Thea—to think of you daring to do it! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Rises and moves about the room.] What else could I possibly do? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But what do you think your husband will say when you go home again? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [At the table, looks at her.] Back to him? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of course. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I shall never go back to him again. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rising and going towards her.] Then you have left your home—for + good and all? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes. There was nothing else to be done. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But then—to take flight so openly. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, it's impossible to keep things of that sort secret. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But what do you think people will say of you, Thea? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + They may say what they like, for aught <i>I</i> care. [Seats herself + wearily and sadly on the sofa.] I have done nothing but what I had to do. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [After a short silence.] And what are your plans now? What do you think of + doing. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I don't know yet. I only know this, that I must live here, where Eilert + Lovborg is—if I am to live at all. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Takes a chair from the table, seats herself beside her, and strokes her + hands.] My dear Thea—how did this—this friendship—between + you and Eilert Lovborg come about? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh it grew up gradually. I gained a sort of influence over him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + He gave up his old habits. Not because I asked him to, for I never dared + do that. But of course he saw how repulsive they were to me; and so he + dropped them. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Concealing an involuntary smile of scorn.] Then you have reclaimed him—as + the saying goes—my little Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + So he says himself, at any rate. And he, on his side, has made a real + human being of me—taught me to think, and to understand so many + things. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Did he give you lessons too, then? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, not exactly lessons. But he talked to me—talked about such an + infinity of things. And then came the lovely, happy time when I began to + share in his work—when he allowed me to help him! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh he did, did he? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes! He never wrote anything without my assistance. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You were two good comrades, in fact? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Eagerly.] Comrades! Yes, fancy, Hedda—that is the very word he + used!—Oh, I ought to feel perfectly happy; and yet I cannot; for I + don't know how long it will last. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Are you no surer of him than that? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Gloomily.] A woman's shadow stands between Eilert Lovborg and me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her anxiously.] Who can that be? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I don't know. Some one he knew in his—in his past. Some one he has + never been able wholly to forget. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What has he told you—about this? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + He has only once—quite vaguely—alluded to it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well! And what did he say? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + He said that when they parted, she threatened to shoot him with a pistol. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With cold composure.] Oh nonsense! No one does that sort of thing here. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No. And that is why I think it must have been that red-haired + singing-woman whom he once— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, very likely. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + For I remember they used to say of her that she carried loaded firearms. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh—then of course it must have been she. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Wringing her hands.] And now just fancy, Hedda—I hear that this + singing-woman—that she is in town again! Oh, I don't know what to do— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Glancing towards the inner room.] Hush! Here comes Tesman. [Rises and + whispers.] Thea—all this must remain between you and me. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Springing up.] Oh yes—yes! For heaven's sake—! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN, with a letter in his hand, comes from the right + through the inner room. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + There now—the epistle is finished. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That's right. And now Mrs. Elvsted is just going. Wait a moment—I'll + go with you to the garden gate. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Do you think Berta could post the letter, Hedda dear? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Takes it.] I will tell her to. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BERTA enters from the hall. +</pre> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Judge Brack wishes to know if Mrs. Tesman will receive him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, ask Judge Brack to come in. And look here—put this letter in + the post. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. [Taking the letter.] Yes, ma'am. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She opens the door for JUDGE BRACK and goes out herself. Brack + is a man of forty-five; thick set, but well-built and elastic + in his movements. His face is roundish with an aristocratic + profile. His hair is short, still almost black, and carefully + dressed. His eyebrows thick. His moustaches are also thick, + with short-cut ends. He wears a well-cut walking-suit, a + little too youthful for his age. He uses an eye-glass, which + he now and then lets drop. +</pre> + <p> + JUDGE BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With his hat in his hand, bowing.] May one venture to call so early in + the day? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of course one may. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Presses his hand.] You are welcome at any time. [Introducing him.] Judge + Brack—Miss Rysing— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh—! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Bowing.] Ah—delighted— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at him and laughs.] It's nice to have a look at you by daylight, + Judge! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + So you find me—altered? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + A little younger, I think. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Thank you so much. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But what do you think of Hedda—eh? Doesn't she look flourishing? She + has actually— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, do leave me alone. You haven't thanked Judge Brack for all the trouble + he has taken— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh, nonsense—it was a pleasure to me— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you are a friend indeed. But here stands Thea all impatience to be + off—so <i>au revoir</i> Judge. I shall be back again presently. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Mutual salutations. MRS. ELVSTED and HEDDA go out by the hall + door. +</pre> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well,—is your wife tolerably satisfied— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, we can't thank you sufficiently. Of course she talks of a little + re-arrangement here and there; and one or two things are still wanting. We + shall have to buy some additional trifles. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Indeed! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But we won't trouble you about these things. Hedda says she herself will + look after what is wanting.—Shan't we sit down? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Thanks, for a moment. [Seats himself beside the table.] There is something + I wanted to speak to you about, my dear Tesman. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? Ah, I understand! [Seating himself.] I suppose it's the serious + part of the frolic that is coming now. Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh, the money question is not so very pressing; though, for that matter, I + wish we had gone a little more economically to work. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But that would never have done, you know! Think of Hedda, my dear fellow! + You, who know her so well—! I couldn't possibly ask her to put up + with a shabby style of living! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No, no—that is just the difficulty. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And then—fortunately—it can't be long before I receive my + appointment. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, you see—such things are often apt to hang fire for a long + time. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Have you heard anything definite? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Nothing exactly definite—. [Interrupting himself.] But by-the-bye—I + have one piece of news for you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Your old friend, Eilert Lovborg, has returned to town. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I know that already. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Indeed! How did you learn it? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + From that lady who went out with Hedda. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Really? What was her name? I didn't quite catch it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Aha—Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Of course—he has been living up in + their regions. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And fancy—I'm delighted to hear that he is quite a reformed + character. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + So they say. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And then he has published a new book—eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, indeed he has. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And I hear it has made some sensation! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Quite an unusual sensation. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy—isn't that good news! A man of such extraordinary talents—. + I felt so grieved to think that he had gone irretrievably to ruin. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + That was what everybody thought. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But I cannot imagine what he will take to now! How in the world will he be + able to make his living? Eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [During the last words, HEDDA has entered by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [To BRACK, laughing with a touch of scorn.] Tesman is for ever worrying + about how people are to make their living. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well you see, dear—we were talking about poor Eilert Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Glancing at him rapidly.] Oh, indeed? [Sets herself in the arm-chair + beside the stove and asks indifferently:] What is the matter with him? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well—no doubt he has run through all his property long ago; and he + can scarcely write a new book every year—eh? So I really can't see + what is to become of him. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps I can give you some information on that point. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Indeed! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You must remember that his relations have a good deal of influence. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, his relations, unfortunately, have entirely washed their hands of him. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + At one time they called him the hope of the family. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + At one time, yes! But he has put an end to all that. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Who knows? [With a slight smile.] I hear they have reclaimed him up at + Sheriff Elvsted's— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And then this book that he has published— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well well, I hope to goodness they may find something for him to do. I + have just written to him. I asked him to come and see us this evening, + Hedda dear. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But my dear fellow, you are booked for my bachelor's party this evening. + You promised on the pier last night. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Had you forgotten, Tesman? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I had utterly forgotten. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But it doesn't matter, for you may be sure he won't come. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What makes you think that? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With a little hesitation, rising and resting his hands on the back of his + chair.] My dear Tesman—and you too, Mrs. Tesman—I think I + ought not to keep you in the dark about something that—that— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + That concerns Eilert—? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Both you and him. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, my dear Judge, out with it. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You must be prepared to find your appointment deferred longer than you + desired or expected. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Jumping up uneasily.] Is there some hitch about it? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + The nomination may perhaps be made conditional on the result of a + competition— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Competition! Think of that, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Leans further back in the chair.] Aha—aha! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But who can my competitor be? Surely not—? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, precisely—Eilert Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Clasping his hands.] No, no—it's quite impossible! Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + H'm—that is what it may come to, all the same. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well but, Judge Brack—it would show the most incredible lack of + consideration for me. [Gesticulates with his arms.] For—just think—I'm + a married man! We have married on the strength of these prospects, Hedda + and I; and run deep into debt; and borrowed money from Aunt Julia too. + Good heavens, they had as good as promised me the appointment. Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, well, well—no doubt you will get it in the end; only after a + contest. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Immovable in her arm-chair.] Fancy, Tesman, there will be a sort of + sporting interest in that. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dearest Hedda, how can you be so indifferent about it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [As before.] I am not at all indifferent. I am most eager to see who wins. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + In any case, Mrs. Tesman, it is best that you should know how matters + stand. I mean—before you set about the little purchases I hear you + are threatening. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + This can make no difference. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Indeed! Then I have no more to say. Good-bye! [To TESMAN.] I shall look in + on my way back from my afternoon walk, and take you home with me. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, yes—your news has quite upset me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Reclining, holds out her hand.] Good-bye, Judge; and be sure you call in + the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Many thanks. Good-bye, good-bye! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Accompanying him to the door.] Good-bye my dear Judge! You must really + excuse me— [JUDGE BRACK goes out by the hall door. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Crosses the room.] Oh Hedda—one should never rush into adventures. + Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at him, smiling.] Do you do that? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, dear—there is no denying—it was adventurous to go and + marry and set up house upon mere expectations. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps you are right there. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well—at all events, we have our delightful home, Hedda! Fancy, the + home we both dreamed of—the home we were in love with, I may almost + say. Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rising slowly and wearily.] It was part of our compact that we were to go + into society—to keep open house. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, if you only knew how I had been looking forward to it! Fancy—to + see you as hostess—in a select circle! Eh? Well, well, well—for + the present we shall have to get on without society, Hedda—only to + invite Aunt Julia now and then.—Oh, I intended you to lead such an + utterly different life, dear—! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of course I cannot have my man in livery just yet. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, no, unfortunately. It would be out of the question for us to keep a + footman, you know. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And the saddle-horse I was to have had— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Aghast.] The saddle-horse! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —I suppose I must not think of that now. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Good heavens, no!—that's as clear as daylight! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Goes up the room.] Well, I shall have one thing at least to kill time + with in the meanwhile. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Beaming.] Oh thank heaven for that! What is it, Hedda. Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In the middle doorway, looks at him with covert scorn.] My pistols, + George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [In alarm.] Your pistols! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With cold eyes.] General Gabler's pistols. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes out through the inner room, to the left. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Rushes up to the middle doorway and calls after her:] No, for heaven's + sake, Hedda darling—don't touch those dangerous things! For my sake + Hedda! Eh? + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT SECOND. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The room at the TESMANS' as in the first Act, except that the + piano has been removed, and an elegant little writing-table + with the book-shelves put in its place. A smaller table + stands near the sofa on the left. Most of the bouquets have + been taken away. MRS. ELVSTED'S bouquet is upon the large + table in front.—It is afternoon. + + HEDDA, dressed to receive callers, is alone in the room. She + stands by the open glass door, loading a revolver. The + fellow to it lies in an open pistol-case on the writing- + table. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks down the garden, and calls:] So you are here again, Judge! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Is heard calling from a distance.] As you see, Mrs. Tesman! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Raises the pistol and points.] Now I'll shoot you, Judge Brack! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Calling unseen.] No, no, no! Don't stand aiming at me! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + This is what comes of sneaking in by the back way.<a name="H7a" + id="H7a"></a>(<a href="#link7">7</a>) [She fires. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Nearer.] Are you out of your senses—! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Dear me—did I happen to hit you? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Still outside.] I wish you would let these pranks alone! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Come in then, Judge. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + JUDGE BRACK, dressed as though for a men's party, enters by + the glass door. He carries a light overcoat over his arm. +</pre> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + What the deuce—haven't you tired of that sport, yet? What are you + shooting at? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I am only firing in the air. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Gently takes the pistol out of her hand.] Allow me, madam! [Looks at it.] + Ah—I know this pistol well! [Looks around.] Where is the case? Ah, + here it is. [Lays the pistol in it, and shuts it.] Now we won't play at + that game any more to-day. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then what in heaven's name would you have me do with myself? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Have you had no visitors? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Closing the glass door.] Not one. I suppose all our set are still out of + town. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And is Tesman not at home either? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the writing-table, putting the pistol-case in a drawer which she + shuts.] No. He rushed off to his aunt's directly after lunch; he didn't + expect you so early. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + H'm—how stupid of me not to have thought of that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Turning her head to look at him.] Why stupid? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Because if I had thought of it I should have come a little—earlier. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Crossing the room.] Then you would have found no one to receive you; for + I have been in my room changing my dress ever since lunch. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And is there no sort of little chink that we could hold a parley through? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You have forgotten to arrange one. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + That was another piece of stupidity. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, we must just settle down here—and wait. Tesman is not likely + to be back for some time yet. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Never mind; I shall not be impatient. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + HEDDA seats herself in the corner of the sofa. BRACK lays his + overcoat over the back of the nearest chair, and sits down, but + keeps his hat in his hand. A short silence. They look at each + other. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [In the same tone.] Well? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I spoke first. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Bending a little forward.] Come, let us have a cosy little chat, Mrs. + Hedda.<a name="H8a" id="H8a"></a>(<a href="#link8">8</a>) + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Leaning further back in the sofa.] Does it not seem like a whole eternity + since our last talk? Of course I don't count those few words yesterday + evening and this morning. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You mean since our last confidential talk? Our last <i>tete-a-tete</i>? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well yes—since you put it so. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Not a day passed but I have wished that you were home again. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And I have done nothing but wish the same thing. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You? Really, Mrs. Hedda? And I thought you had been enjoying your tour so + much! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, you may be sure of that! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But Tesman's letters spoke of nothing but happiness. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, Tesman! You see, he thinks nothing is so delightful as grubbing in + libraries and making copies of old parchments, or whatever you call them. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With a smile of malice.] Well, that is his vocation in life—or part + of it at any rate. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, of course; and no doubt when it's your vocation—. But <i>I</i>! + Oh, my dear Mr. Brack, how mortally bored I have been. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Sympathetically.] Do you really say so? In downright earnest? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you can surely understand it—! To go for six whole months + without meeting a soul that knew anything of our circle, or could talk + about things we were interested in. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes—I too should feel that a deprivation. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And then, what I found most intolerable of all— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —was being everlastingly in the company of—one and the same + person— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With a nod of assent.] Morning, noon, and night, yes—at all + possible times and seasons. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I said "everlastingly." + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Just so. But I should have thought, with our excellent Tesman, one could— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Tesman is—a specialist, my dear Judge. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Undeniable. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And specialists are not at all amusing to travel with. Not in the long run + at any rate. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Not even—the specialist one happens to love? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Faugh—don't use that sickening word! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Taken aback.] What do you say, Mrs. Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Half laughing, half irritated.] You should just try it! To hear of + nothing but the history of civilisation, morning, noon, and night— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Everlastingly. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes yes yes! And then all this about the domestic industry of the middle + ages—! That's the most disgusting part of it! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Looks searchingly at her.] But tell me—in that case, how am I to + understand your—? H'm— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + My accepting George Tesman, you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, let us put it so. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Good heavens, do you see anything so wonderful in that? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes and no—Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I had positively danced myself tired, my dear Judge. My day was done— + [With a slight shudder.] Oh no—I won't say that; nor think it + either! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You have assuredly no reason to. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, reasons— [Watching him closely.] And George Tesman—after + all, you must admit that he is correctness itself. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + His correctness and respectability are beyond all question. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And I don't see anything absolutely ridiculous about him.—Do you? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Ridiculous? N—no—I shouldn't exactly say so— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well—and his powers of research, at all events, are untiring.—I + see no reason why he should not one day come to the front, after all. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her hesitatingly.] I thought that you, like every one else, + expected him to attain the highest distinction. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With an expression of fatigue.] Yes, so I did.—And then, since he + was bent, at all hazards, on being allowed to provide for me—I + really don't know why I should not have accepted his offer? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No—if you look at it in that light— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + It was more than my other adorers were prepared to do for me, my dear + Judge. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Well, I can't answer for all the rest; but as for myself, you + know quite well that I have always entertained a—a certain respect + for the marriage tie—for marriage as an institution, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Jestingly.] Oh, I assure you I have never cherished any hopes with + respect to you. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + All I require is a pleasant and intimate interior, where I can make myself + useful in every way, and am free to come and go as—as a trusted + friend— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of the master of the house, do you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Bowing.] Frankly—of the mistress first of all; but of course of the + master too, in the second place. Such a triangular friendship—if I + may call it so—is really a great convenience for all the parties, + let me tell you. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I have many a time longed for some one to make a third on our + travels. Oh—those railway-carriage <i>tete-a-tetes</i>—! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately your wedding journey is over now. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Shaking her head.] Not by a long—long way. I have only arrived at a + station on the line. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, then the passengers jump out and move about a little, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I never jump out. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Really? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No—because there is always some one standing by to— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] To look at your ankles, do you mean? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Precisely. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well but, dear me— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With a gesture of repulsion.] I won't have it. I would rather keep my + seat where I happen to be—and continue the <i>tete-a-tete</i>. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But suppose a third person were to jump in and join the couple. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah—that is quite another matter! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + A trusted, sympathetic friend— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —with a fund of conversation on all sorts of lively topics— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + —and not the least bit of a specialist! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [With an audible sigh.] Yes, that would be a relief indeed. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Hears the front door open, and glances in that direction.] The triangle + is completed. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Half aloud.] And on goes the train. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN, in a grey walking-suit, with a soft felt hat, + enters from the hall. He has a number of unbound books under + his arm and in his pockets. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Goes up to the table beside the corner settee.] Ouf—what a load for + a warm day—all these books. [Lays them on the table.] I'm positively + perspiring, Hedda. Hallo—are you there already, my dear Judge? Eh? + Berta didn't tell me. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] I came in through the garden. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What books have you got there? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Stands looking them through.] Some new books on my special subjects + —quite indispensable to me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Your special subjects? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, books on his special subjects, Mrs. Tesman. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [BRACK and HEDDA exchange a confidential smile. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Do you need still more books on your special subjects? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, my dear Hedda, one can never have too many of them. Of course one + must keep up with all that is written and published. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I suppose one must. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Searching among his books.] And look here—I have got hold of Eilert + Lovborg's new book too. [Offering it to her.] Perhaps you would like to + glance through it, Hedda? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, thank you. Or rather—afterwards perhaps. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I looked into it a little on the way home. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, what do you think of it—as a specialist? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I think it shows quite remarkable soundness of judgment. He never wrote + like that before. [Putting the books together.] Now I shall take all these + into my study. I'm longing to cut the leaves—! And then I must + change my clothes. [To BRACK.] I suppose we needn't start just yet? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh, dear no—there is not the slightest hurry. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well then, I will take my time. [Is going with his books, but stops in the + doorway and turns.] By-the-bye, Hedda—Aunt Julia is not coming this + evening. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not coming? Is it that affair of the bonnet that keeps her away? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, not at all. How could you think such a thing of Aunt Julia? Just fancy—! + The fact is, Aunt Rina is very ill. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + She always is. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, but to-day she is much worse than usual, poor dear. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, then it's only natural that her sister should remain with her. I must + bear my disappointment. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And you can't imagine, dear, how delighted Aunt Julia seemed to be— + because you had come home looking so flourishing! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Half aloud, rising.] Oh, those everlasting Aunts! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Going to the glass door.] Nothing. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, all right. [He goes through the inner room, out to the right. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + What bonnet were you talking about? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, it was a little episode with Miss Tesman this morning. She had laid + down her bonnet on the chair there—[Looks at him and smiles.]—and + I pretended to think it was the servant's. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Shaking his head.] Now my dear Mrs. Hedda, how could you do such a thing? + To the excellent old lady, too! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Nervously crossing the room.] Well, you see—these impulses come + over me all of a sudden; and I cannot resist them. [Throws herself down in + the easy-chair by the stove.] Oh, I don't know how to explain it. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Behind the easy-chair.] You are not really happy—that is at the + bottom of it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking straight before her.] I know of no reason why I should be— + happy. Perhaps you can give me one? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well-amongst other things, because you have got exactly the home you had + set your heart on. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks up at him and laughs.] Do you too believe in that legend? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Is there nothing in it, then? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, there is something in it. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + There is this in it, that I made use of Tesman to see me home from evening + parties last summer— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I, unfortunately, had to go quite a different way. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That's true. I know you were going a different way last summer. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Oh fie, Mrs. Hedda! Well, then—you and Tesman—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, we happened to pass here one evening; Tesman, poor fellow, was + writhing in the agony of having to find conversation; so I took pity on + the learned man— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Smiles doubtfully.] You took pity? H'm— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I really did. And so—to help him out of his torment—I + happened to say, in pure thoughtlessness, that I should like to live in + this villa. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No more than that? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not that evening. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But afterwards? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, my thoughtlessness had consequences, my dear Judge. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately that too often happens, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Thanks! So you see it was this enthusiasm for Secretary Falk's villa that + first constituted a bond of sympathy between George Tesman and me. From + that came our engagement and our marriage, and our wedding journey, and + all the rest of it. Well, well, my dear Judge—as you make your bed + so you must lie, I could almost say. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + This is exquisite! And you really cared not a rap about it all the time? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, heaven knows I didn't. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But now? Now that we have made it so homelike for you? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Uh—the rooms all seem to smell of lavender and dried rose-leaves.—But + perhaps it's Aunt Julia that has brought that scent with her. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] No, I think it must be a legacy from the late Mrs. Secretary + Falk. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, there is an odour of mortality about it. It reminds me of a bouquet—the + day after the ball. [Clasps her hands behind her head, leans back in her + chair and looks at him.] Oh, my dear Judge—you cannot imagine how + horribly I shall bore myself here. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Why should not you, too, find some sort of vocation in life, Mrs. Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + A vocation—that should attract me? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + If possible, of course. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Heaven knows what sort of a vocation that could be. I often wonder whether— + [Breaking off.] But that would never do either. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Who can tell? Let me hear what it is. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Whether I might not get Tesman to go into politics, I mean. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Tesman? No really now, political life is not the thing for him—not + at all in his line. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, I daresay not.—But if I could get him into it all the same? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Why—what satisfaction could you find in that? If he is not fitted + for that sort of thing, why should you want to drive him into it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Because I am bored, I tell you! [After a pause.] So you think it quite out + of the question that Tesman should ever get into the ministry? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + H'm—you see, my dear Mrs. Hedda—to get into the ministry, he + would have to be a tolerably rich man. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rising impatiently.] Yes, there we have it! It is this genteel poverty I + have managed to drop into—! [Crosses the room.] That is what makes + life so pitiable! So utterly ludicrous!—For that's what it is. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Now <i>I</i> should say the fault lay elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Where, then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You have never gone through any really stimulating experience. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Anything serious, you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you may call it so. But now you may perhaps have one in store. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Tossing her head.] Oh, you're thinking of the annoyances about this + wretched professorship! But that must be Tesman's own affair. I assure you + I shall not waste a thought upon it. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No, no, I daresay not. But suppose now that what people call—in + elegant language—a solemn responsibility were to come upon you? + [Smiling.] A new responsibility, Mrs. Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Angrily.] Be quiet! Nothing of that sort will ever happen! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Warily.] We will speak of this again a year hence—at the very + outside. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Curtly.] I have no turn for anything of the sort, Judge Brack. No + responsibilities for me! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Are you so unlike the generality of women as to have no turn for duties + which—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Beside the glass door.] Oh, be quiet, I tell you!—I often think + there is only one thing in the world I have any turn for. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Drawing near to her.] And what is that, if I may ask? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Stands looking out.] Boring myself to death. Now you know it. [Turns, + looks towards the inner room, and laughs.] Yes, as I thought! Here comes + the Professor. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Softly, in a tone of warning.] Come, come, come, Mrs. Hedda! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN, dressed for the party, with his gloves and hat + in his hand, enters from the right through the inner room. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Hedda, has no message come from Eilert Lovborg? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Then you'll see he'll be here presently. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Do you really think he will come? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am almost sure of it. For what you were telling us this morning + must have been a mere floating rumour. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + You think so? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + At any rate, Aunt Julia said she did not believe for a moment that he + would ever stand in my way again. Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well then, that's all right. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Placing his hat and gloves on a chair on the right.] Yes, but you must + really let me wait for him as long as possible. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + We have plenty of time yet. None of my guests will arrive before seven or + half-past. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Then meanwhile we can keep Hedda company, and see what happens. Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Placing BRACK'S hat and overcoat upon the corner settee.] And at the + worst Mr. Lovborg can remain here with me. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Offering to take his things.] Oh, allow me, Mrs. Tesman!—What do + you mean by "At the worst"? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + If he won't go with you and Tesman. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Looks dubiously at her.] But, Hedda dear—do you think it would + quite do for him to remain here with you? Eh? Remember, Aunt Julia can't + come. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, but Mrs. Elvsted is coming. We three can have a cup of tea together. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, that will be all right. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling.] And that would perhaps be the safest plan for him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why so? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, you know, Mrs. Tesman, how you used to gird at my little bachelor + parties. You declared they were adapted only for men of the strictest + principles. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But no doubt Mr. Lovborg's principles are strict enough now. A converted + sinner— [BERTA appears at the hall door. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + There's a gentleman asking if you are at home, ma'am— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, show him in. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Softly.] I'm sure it is he! Fancy that! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + EILERT LOVBORG enters from the hall. He is slim and lean; + of the same age as TESMAN, but looks older and somewhat + worn-out. His hair and beard are of a blackish brown, his + face long and pale, but with patches of colour on the cheeks. + He is dressed in a well-cut black visiting suit, quite new. + He has dark gloves and a silk hat. He stops near the door, + and makes a rapid bow, seeming somewhat embarrassed. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Goes up to him and shakes him warmly by the hand.] Well, my dear Eilert—so + at last we meet again! + </p> + <p> + EILERT LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Speaks in a subdued voice.] Thanks for your letter, Tesman. [Approaching + HEDDA.] Will you too shake hands with me, Mrs. Tesman? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Taking his hand.] I am glad to see you, Mr. Lovborg. [With a motion of + her hand.] I don't know whether you two gentlemen—? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Bowing slightly.] Judge Brack, I think. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Doing likewise.] Oh yes,—in the old days— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [To LOVBORG, with his hands on his shoulders.] And now you must make + yourself entirely at home, Eilert! Mustn't he, Hedda?—For I hear you + are going to settle in town again? Eh? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Quite right, quite right. Let me tell you, I have got hold of your new + book; but I haven't had time to read it yet. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You may spare yourself the trouble. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why so? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Because there is very little in it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Just fancy—how can you say so? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + But it has been very much praised, I hear. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + That was what I wanted; so I put nothing into the book but what every one + would agree with. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Very wise of you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well but, my dear Eilert—! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + For now I mean to win myself a position again—to make a fresh start. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [A little embarrassed.] Ah, that is what you wish to do? Eh? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling, lays down his hat, and draws a packet wrapped in paper, from his + coat pocket.] But when this one appears, George Tesman, you will have to + read it. For this is the real book—the book I have put my true self + into. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? And what is it? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It is the continuation. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + The continuation? Of what? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Of the book. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Of the new book? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Of course. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dear Eilert—does it not come down to our own days? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, it does; and this one deals with the future. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + With the future! But, good heavens, we know nothing of the future! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + No; but there is a thing or two to be said about it all the same. [Opens + the packet.] Look here— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, that's not your handwriting. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I dictated it. [Turning over the pages.] It falls into two sections. The + first deals with the civilising forces of the future. And here is the + second—[running through the pages towards the end]—forecasting + the probable line of development. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + How odd now! I should never have thought of writing anything of that sort. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the glass door, drumming on the pane.] H'm—. I daresay not. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Replacing the manuscript in its paper and laying the packet on the + table.] I brought it, thinking I might read you a little of it this + evening. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + That was very good of you, Eilert. But this evening—? [Looking back + at BRACK.] I don't see how we can manage it— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Well then, some other time. There is no hurry. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I must tell you, Mr. Lovborg—there is a little gathering at my house + this evening—mainly in honour of Tesman, you know— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looking for his hat.] Oh—then I won't detain you— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No, but listen—will you not do me the favour of joining us? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Curtly and decidedly.] No, I can't—thank you very much. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh, nonsense—do! We shall be quite a select little circle. And I + assure you we shall have a "lively time," as Mrs. Hed—as Mrs. Tesman + says. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I have no doubt of it. But nevertheless— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And then you might bring your manuscript with you, and read it to Tesman + at my house. I could give you a room to yourselves. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, think of that, Eilert,—why shouldn't you? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Interposing.] But, Tesman, if Mr. Lovborg would really rather not! I am + sure Mr. Lovborg is much more inclined to remain here and have supper with + me. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looking at her.] With you, Mrs. Tesman? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And with Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Ah— [Lightly.] I saw her for a moment this morning. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Did you? Well, she is coming this evening. So you see you are almost bound + to remain, Mr. Lovborg, or she will have no one to see her home. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + That's true. Many thanks, Mrs. Tesman—in that case I will remain. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then I have one or two orders to give the servant— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes to the hall door and rings. BERTA enters. HEDDA talks + to her in a whisper, and points towards the inner room. BERTA + nods and goes out again. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [At the same time, to LOVBORG.] Tell me, Eilert—is it this new + subject—the future—that you are going to lecture about? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + They told me at the bookseller's that you are going to deliver a course of + lectures this autumn. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + That is my intention. I hope you won't take it ill, Tesman. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, not in the least! But—? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I can quite understand that it must be very disagreeable to you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Cast down.] Oh, I can't expect you, out of consideration for me, to— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + But I shall wait till you have received your appointment. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Will you wait? Yes but—yes but—are you not going to compete + with me? Eh? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + No; it is only the moral victory I care for. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, bless me—then Aunt Julia was right after all! Oh yes—I + knew it! Hedda! Just fancy—Eilert Lovborg is not going to stand in + our way! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Curtly.] Our way? Pray leave me out of the question. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes up towards the inner room, where BERTA is placing a + tray with decanters and glasses on the table. HEDDA nods + approval, and comes forward again. BERTA goes out. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [At the same time.] And you, Judge Brack—what do you say to this? + Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, I say that a moral victory—h'm—may be all very fine— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, certainly. But all the same— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking at TESMAN with a cold smile.] You stand there looking as if you + were thunderstruck— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes—so I am—I almost think— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Don't you see, Mrs. Tesman, a thunderstorm has just passed over? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Pointing towards the room.] Will you not take a glass of cold punch, + gentlemen? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Looking at his watch.] A stirrup-cup? Yes, it wouldn't come amiss. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + A capital idea, Hedda! Just the thing! Now that the weight has been taken + off my mind— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Will you not join them, Mr. Lovborg? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [With a gesture of refusal.] No, thank you. Nothing for me. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Why bless me—cold punch is surely not poison. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps not for everyone. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I will keep Mr. Lovborg company in the meantime. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, Hedda dear, do. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He and BRACK go into the inner room, seat themselves, drink + punch, smoke cigarettes, and carry on a lively conversation + during what follows. EILERT LOVBORG remains standing beside + the stove. HEDDA goes to the writing-table. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Raising he voice a little.] Do you care to look at some photographs, Mr. + Lovborg? You know Tesman and I made a tour in the Tyrol on our way home? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She takes up an album, and places it on the table beside the + sofa, in the further corner of which she seats herself. EILERT + LOVBORG approaches, stops, and looks at her. Then he takes a + chair and seats himself to her left. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Opening the album.] Do you see this range of mountains, Mr. Lovborg? It's + the Ortler group. Tesman has written the name underneath. Here it is: "The + Ortler group near Meran." + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Who has never taken his eyes off her, says softly and slowly:] Hedda—Gabler! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Glancing hastily at him.] Ah! Hush! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Repeats softly.] Hedda Gabler! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking at the album.] That was my name in the old days—when we two + knew each other. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + And I must teach myself never to say Hedda Gabler again—never, as + long as I live. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Still turning over the pages.] Yes, you must. And I think you ought to + practise in time. The sooner the better, I should say. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [In a tone of indignation.] Hedda Gabler married? And married to— + George Tesman! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes—so the world goes. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Oh, Hedda, Hedda—how could you<a name="H9a" id="H9a"></a>(<a + href="#link9">9</a>) throw yourself away! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks sharply at him.] What? I can't allow this! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + What do you mean? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [TESMAN comes into the room and goes towards the sofa. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Hears him coming and says in an indifferent tone.] And this is a view + from the Val d'Ampezzo, Mr. Lovborg. Just look at these peaks! [Looks + affectionately up at TESMAN.] What's the name of these curious peaks, + dear? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Let me see. Oh, those are the Dolomites. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that's it!—Those are the Dolomites, Mr. Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Hedda, dear,—I only wanted to ask whether I shouldn't bring you a + little punch after all? For yourself at any rate—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, do, please; and perhaps a few biscuits. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No cigarettes? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Very well. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He goes into the inner room and out to the right. BRACK sits + in the inner room, and keeps an eye from time to time on HEDDA + and LOVBORG. +</pre> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Softly, as before.] Answer me, Hedda—how could you go and do this? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Apparently absorbed in the album.] If you continue to say <i>du</i> to me + I won't talk to you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + May I not say <i>du</i> even when we are alone? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. You may think it; but you mustn't say it. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Ah, I understand. It is an offence against George Tesman, whom you<a + name="H10a" id="H10a"></a>(<a href="#link10">10</a>)—love. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Glances at him and smiles.] Love? What an idea! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You don't love him then! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But I won't hear of any sort of unfaithfulness! Remember that. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Hedda—answer me one thing— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Hush! [TESMAN enters with a small tray from the inner room. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Here you are! Isn't this tempting? [He puts the tray on the table. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why do you bring it yourself? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Filling the glasses.] Because I think it's such fun to wait upon you, + Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But you have poured out two glasses. Mr. Lovborg said he wouldn't have any— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, but Mrs. Elvsted will soon be here, won't she? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, by-the-bye—Mrs. Elvsted— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Had you forgotten her? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + We were so absorbed in these photographs. [Shows him a picture.] Do you + remember this little village? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, it's that one just below the Brenner Pass. It was there we passed the + night— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —and met that lively party of tourists. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that was the place. Fancy—if we could only have had you with + us, Eilert! Eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He returns to the inner room and sits beside BRACK. +</pre> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Answer me one thing, Hedda— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Was there no love in your friendship for me either? Not a spark—not + a tinge of love in it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I wonder if there was? To me it seems as though we were two good comrades—two + thoroughly intimate friends. [Smilingly.] You especially were frankness + itself. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It was you that made me so. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + As I look back upon it all, I think there was really something beautiful, + something fascinating—something daring—in—in that secret + intimacy—that comradeship which no living creature so much as + dreamed of. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, Hedda! Was there not?—When I used to come to your father's + in the afternoon—and the General sat over at the window reading his + papers—with his back towards us— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And we two on the corner sofa— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Always with the same illustrated paper before us— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + For want of an album, yes. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, Hedda, and when I made my confessions to you—told you about + myself, things that at that time no one else knew! There I would sit and + tell you of my escapades—my days and nights of devilment. Oh, Hedda—what + was the power in you that forced me to confess these things? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Do you think it was any power in me? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + How else can I explain it? And all those—those roundabout questions + you used to put to me— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Which you understood so particularly well— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + How could you sit and question me like that? Question me quite frankly— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + In roundabout terms, please observe. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, but frankly nevertheless. Cross-question me about—all that sort + of thing? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And how could you answer, Mr. Lovborg? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that is just what I can't understand—in looking back upon it. + But tell me now, Hedda—was there not love at the bottom of our + friendship? On your side, did you not feel as though you might purge my + stains away—if I made you my confessor? Was it not so? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, not quite. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + What was you motive, then? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Do think it quite incomprehensible that a young girl—when it can be + done—without any one knowing— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Well? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —should be glad to have a peep, now and then, into a world which—? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Which—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —which she is forbidden to know anything about? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + So that was it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Partly. Partly—I almost think. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Comradeship in the thirst for life. But why should not that, at any rate, + have continued? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The fault was yours. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It was you that broke with me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, when our friendship threatened to develop into something more + serious. Shame upon you, Eilert Lovborg! How could you think of wronging + your—your frank comrade. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Clenches his hands.] Oh, why did you not carry out your threat? Why did + you not shoot me down? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Because I have such a dread of scandal. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, Hedda, you are a coward at heart. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + A terrible coward. [Changing her tone.] But it was a lucky thing for you. + And now you have found ample consolation at the Elvsteds'. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I know what Thea has confided to you. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And perhaps you have confided to her something about us? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Not a word. She is too stupid to understand anything of that sort. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Stupid? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + She is stupid about matters of that sort. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And I am cowardly. [Bends over towards him, without looking him in the + face, and says more softly:] But now I will confide something to you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Eagerly.] Well? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The fact that I dared not shoot you down— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —that was not my arrant cowardice—that evening. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her a moment, understands, and whispers passionately.] Oh, + Hedda! Hedda Gabler! Now I begin to see a hidden reason beneath our + comradeship! You<a name="H11a" id="H11a"></a>(<a href="#link11">11</a>) + and I—! After all, then, it was your craving for life— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Softly, with a sharp glance.] Take care! Believe nothing of the sort! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Twilight has begun to fall. The hall door is opened from + without by BERTA. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Closes the album with a bang and calls smilingly:] Ah, at last! My + darling Thea,—come along! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MRS. ELVSTED enters from the hall. She is in evening dress. + The door is closed behind her. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [On the sofa, stretches out her arms towards her.] My sweet Thea—you + can't think how I have been longing for you! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [MRS. ELVSTED, in passing, exchanges slight salutations with + the gentlemen in the inner room, then goes up to the table + and gives HEDDA her hand. EILERT LOVBORG has risen. He and + MRS. ELVSTED greet each other with a silent nod. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Ought I to go in and talk to your husband for a moment? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, not at all. Leave those two alone. They will soon be going. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Are they going out? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, to a supper-party. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Quickly, to LOVBORG.] Not you? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + No. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lovborg remains with us. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Takes a chair and is about to seat herself at his side.] Oh, how nice it + is here! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, thank you, my little Thea! Not there! You'll be good enough to come + over here to me. I will sit between you. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, just as you please. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes round the table and seats herself on the sofa on + HEDDA'S right. LOVBORG re-seats himself on his chair. +</pre> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [After a short pause, to HEDDA.] Is not she lovely to look at? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Lightly stroking her hair.] Only to look at! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes. For we two—she and I—we are two real comrades. We have + absolute faith in each other; so we can sit and talk with perfect + frankness— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not round about, Mr. Lovborg? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Well— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly clinging close to HEDDA.] Oh, how happy I am, Hedda! For only + think, he says I have inspired him too. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her with a smile.] Ah! Does he say that, dear? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + And then she is so brave, Mrs. Tesman! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Good heavens—am I brave? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Exceedingly—where your comrade is concerned. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah, yes—courage! If one only had that! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + What then? What do you mean? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then life would perhaps be liveable, after all. [With a sudden change of + tone.] But now, my dearest Thea, you really must have a glass of cold + punch. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, thanks—I never take anything of that kind. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well then, you, Mr. Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Nor I, thank you. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, he doesn't either. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks fixedly at him.] But if I say you shall? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It would be of no use. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] Then I, poor creature, have no sort of power over you? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Not in that respect. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But seriously, I think you ought to—for your own sake. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Why, Hedda—! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + How so? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Or rather on account of other people. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Otherwise people might be apt to suspect that—in your heart of + hearts—you did not feel quite secure—quite confident in + yourself. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly.] Oh please, Hedda—! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + People may suspect what they like—for the present. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Joyfully.] Yes, let them! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I saw it plainly in Judge Brack's face a moment ago. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + What did you see? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + His contemptuous smile, when you dared not go with them into the inner + room. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Dared not? Of course I preferred to stop here and talk to you. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + What could be more natural, Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But the Judge could not guess that. And I say, too, the way he smiled and + glanced at Tesman when you dared not accept his invitation to this + wretched little supper-party of his. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Dared not! Do you say I dared not? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + <i>I</i> don't say so. But that was how Judge Brack understood it. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Well, let him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then you are not going with them? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I will stay here with you and Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, Hedda—how can you doubt that? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Smiles and nods approvingly to LOVBORG.] Firm as a rock! Faithful to your + principles, now and for ever! Ah, that is how a man should be! [Turns to + MRS. ELVSTED and caresses her.] Well now, what did I tell you, when you + came to us this morning in such a state of distraction— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Surprised.] Distraction! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Terrified.] Hedda—oh Hedda—! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You can see for yourself! You haven't the slightest reason to be in such + mortal terror— [Interrupting herself.] There! Now we can all three + enjoy ourselves! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Who has given a start.] Ah—what is all this, Mrs. Tesman? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh my God, Hedda! What are you saying? What are you doing? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Don't get excited! That horrid Judge Brack is sitting watching you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + So she was in mortal terror! On my account! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly and piteously.] Oh, Hedda—now you have ruined everything! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks fixedly at her for a moment. His face is distorted.] So that was my + comrade's frank confidence in me? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Imploringly.] Oh, my dearest friend—only let me tell you— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Takes one of the glasses of punch, raises it to his lips, and says in a + low, husky voice.] Your health, Thea! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He empties the glass, puts it down, and takes the second. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly.] Oh, Hedda, Hedda—how could you do this? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + <i>I</i> do it? <i>I</i>? Are you crazy? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Here's to your health too, Mrs. Tesman. Thanks for the truth. Hurrah for + the truth! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He empties the glass and is about to re-fill it. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Lays her hand on his arm.] Come, come—no more for the present. + Remember you are going out to supper. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, no, no! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Hush! They are sitting watching you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Putting down the glass.] Now, Thea—tell me the truth— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Did your husband know that you had come after me? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Wringing her hands.] Oh, Hedda—do you hear what he is asking? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Was it arranged between you and him that you were to come to town and look + after me? Perhaps it was the Sheriff himself that urged you to come? Aha, + my dear—no doubt he wanted my help in his office! Or was it at the + card-table that he missed me? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly, in agony.] Oh, Lovborg, Lovborg—! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Seizes a glass and is on the point of filling it.] Here's a glass for the + old Sheriff too! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Preventing him.] No more just now. Remember, you have to read your + manuscript to Tesman. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Calmly, putting down the glass.] It was stupid of me all this. Thea—to + take it in this way, I mean. Don't be angry with me, my dear, dear + comrade. You shall see—both you and the others—that if I was + fallen once—now I have risen again! Thanks to you, Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Radiant with joy.] Oh, heaven be praised—! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [BRACK has in the meantime looked at his watch. He and TESMAN + rise and come into the drawing-room. +</pre> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Takes his hat and overcoat.] Well, Mrs. Tesman, our time has come. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I suppose it has. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] Mine too, Judge Brack. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Softly and imploringly.] Oh, Lovborg, don't do it! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Pinching her arm.] They can hear you! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [With a suppressed shriek.] Ow! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [To BRACK.] You were good enough to invite me. + </p> + <p> + JUDGE BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, are you coming after all? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, many thanks. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I'm delighted— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [To TESMAN, putting the parcel of MS. in his pocket.] I should like to + show you one or two things before I send it to the printers. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy—that will be delightful. But, Hedda dear, how is Mrs. Elvsted + to get home? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, that can be managed somehow. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looking towards the ladies.] Mrs. Elvsted? Of course, I'll come again and + fetch her. [Approaching.] At ten or thereabouts, Mrs. Tesman? Will that + do? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Certainly. That will do capitally. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, then, that's all right. But you must not expect me so early, Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you may stop as long—as long as ever you please. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Trying to conceal her anxiety.] Well then, Mr. Lovborg—I shall + remain here until you come. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [With his hat in his hand.] Pray do, Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And now off goes the excursion train, gentlemen! I hope we shall have a + lively time, as a certain fair lady puts it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah, if only the fair lady could be present unseen—! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Why unseen? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + In order to hear a little of your liveliness at first hand, Judge Brack. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing.] I should not advise the fair lady to try it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Also laughing.] Come, you're a nice one Hedda! Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, good-bye, good-bye, ladies. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Bowing.] About ten o'clock, then, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [BRACK, LOVBORG, and TESMAN go out by the hall door. At the + same time, BERTA enters from the inner room with a lighted + lamp, which she places on the drawing-room table; she goes + out by the way she came. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Who has risen and is wandering restlessly about the room.] Hedda— + Hedda—what will come of all this? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + At ten o'clock—he will be here. I can see him already—with + vine-leaves in his hair—flushed and fearless— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I hope he may. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And then, you see—then he will have regained control over himself. + Then he will be a free man for all his days. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh God!—if he would only come as you see him now! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + He will come as I see him—so, and not otherwise! [Rises and + approaches THEA.] You may doubt him as long as you please; <i>I</i> + believe in him. And now we will try— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + You have some hidden motive in this, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I have. I want for once in my life to have power to mould a human + destiny. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Have you not the power? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I have not—and have never had it. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Not your husband's? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Do you think that is worth the trouble? Oh, if you could only understand + how poor I am. And fate has made you so rich! [Clasps her passionately in + her arms.] I think I must burn your hair off after all. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Let me go! Let me go! I am afraid of you, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [In the middle doorway.] Tea is laid in the dining-room, ma'am. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Very well. We are coming + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, no, no! I would rather go home alone! At once! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Nonsense! First you shall have a cup of tea, you little stupid. And then—at + ten o'clock—Eilert Lovborg will be here—with vine-leaves in + his hair. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She drags MRS. ELVSTED almost by force to the middle doorway. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT THIRD. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The room at the TESMANS'. The curtains are drawn over the + middle doorway, and also over the glass door. The lamp, + half turned down, and with a shade over it, is burning on + the table. In the stove, the door of which stands open, + there has been a fire, which is now nearly burnt out. + + MRS. ELVSTED, wrapped in a large shawl, and with her feet + upon a foot-rest, sits close to the stove, sunk back in + the arm-chair. HEDDA, fully dressed, lies sleeping upon + the sofa, with a sofa-blanket over her. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [After a pause, suddenly sits up in her chair, and listens eagerly. Then + she sinks back again wearily, moaning to herself.] Not yet!—Oh God—oh + God—not yet! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BERTA slips cautiously in by the hall door. She has a letter in + her hand. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Turns and whispers eagerly.] Well—has any one come? + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Softly.] Yes, a girl has just brought this letter. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Quickly, holding out her hand.] A letter! Give it to me! + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + No, it's for Dr. Tesman, ma'am. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, indeed. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + It was Miss Tesman's servant that brought it. I'll lay it here on the + table. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, do. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Laying down the letter.] I think I had better put out the lamp. It's + smoking. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, put it out. It must soon be daylight now. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Putting out the lamp.] It is daylight already, ma'am. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, broad day! And no one come back yet—! + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Lord bless you, ma'am—I guessed how it would be. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + You guessed? + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, when I saw that a certain person had come back to town—and that + he went off with them. For we've heard enough about that gentleman before + now. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Don't speak so loud. You will waken Mrs. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks towards the sofa and sighs.] No, no—let her sleep, poor + thing. Shan't I put some wood on the fire? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Thanks, not for me. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, very well. [She goes softly out by the hall door. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Is wakened by the shutting of the door, and looks up.] What's that—? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + It was only the servant. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking about her.] Oh, we're here—! Yes, now I remember. [Sits + erect upon the sofa, stretches herself, and rubs her eyes.] What o'clock + is it, Thea? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her watch.] It's past seven. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + When did Tesman come home? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + He has not come. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not come home yet? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] No one has come. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Think of our watching and waiting here till four in the morning— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Wringing her hands.] And how I watched and waited for him! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Yawns, and says with her hand before her mouth.] Well well—we might + have spared ourselves the trouble. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Did you get a little sleep? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes; I believe I have slept pretty well. Have you not? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Not for a moment. I couldn't, Hedda!—not to save my life. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rises and goes towards her.] There there there! There's nothing to be so + alarmed about. I understand quite well what has happened. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Well, what do you think? Won't you tell me? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why, of course it has been a very late affair at Judge Brack's— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes—that is clear enough. But all the same— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And then, you see, Tesman hasn't cared to come home and ring us up in the + middle of the night. [Laughing.] Perhaps he wasn't inclined to show + himself either—immediately after a jollification. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + But in that case—where can he have gone? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of course he has gone to his Aunts' and slept there. They have his old + room ready for him. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, he can't be with them for a letter has just come for him from Miss + Tesman. There it lies. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? [Looks at the address.] Why yes, it's addressed in Aunt Julia's + hand. Well then, he has remained at Judge Brack's. And as for Eilert + Lovborg—he is sitting, with vine-leaves in his hair, reading his + manuscript. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, Hedda, you are just saying things you don't believe a bit. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You really are a little blockhead, Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, I suppose I am. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And how mortally tired you look. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am mortally tired. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well then, you must do as I tell you. You must go into my room and lie + down for a little while. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, no—I shouldn't be able to sleep. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I am sure you would. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Well, but you husband is certain to come soon now; and then I want to know + at once— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I shall take care to let you know when he comes. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Do you promise me, Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, rely upon me. Just you go in and have a sleep in the meantime. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Thanks; then I'll try. [She goes off to the inner room. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [HEDDA goes up to the glass door and draws back the curtains. + The broad daylight streams into the room. Then she takes a + little hand-glass from the writing-table, looks at herself + in it, and arranges her hair. Next she goes to the hall + door and presses the bell-button. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BERTA presently appears at the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Did you want anything, ma'am? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes; you must put some more wood in the stove. I am shivering. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Bless me—I'll make up the fire at once. [She rakes the embers + together and lays a piece of wood upon them; then stops and listens.] That + was a ring at the front door, ma'am. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then go to the door. I will look after the fire. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + It'll soon burn up. [She goes out by the hall door. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [HEDDA kneels on the foot-rest and lays some more pieces of + wood in the stove. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + After a short pause, GEORGE TESMAN enters from the hall. He + steals on tiptoe towards the middle doorway and is about to + slip through the curtains. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the stove, without looking up.] Good morning. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Turns.] Hedda! [Approaching her.] Good heavens—are you up so early? + Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am up very early this morning. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And I never doubted you were still sound asleep! Fancy that, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Don't speak so loud. Mrs. Elvsted is resting in my room. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Has Mrs. Elvsted been here all night? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, since no one came to fetch her. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Ah, to be sure. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Closes the door of the stove and rises.] Well, did you enjoy yourselves + at Judge Brack's? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Have you been anxious about me? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, I should never think of being anxious. But I asked if you had enjoyed + yourself. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes,—for once in a way. Especially the beginning of the evening; + for then Eilert read me part of his book. We arrived more than an hour too + early—fancy that! And Brack had all sorts of arrangements to make—so + Eilert read to me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Seating herself by the table on the right.] Well? Tell me then— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Sitting on a footstool near the stove.] Oh, Hedda, you can't conceive + what a book that is going to be! I believe it is one of the most + remarkable things that have ever been written. Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes yes; I don't care about that— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I must make a confession to you, Hedda. When he had finished reading—a + horrid feeling came over me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + A horrid feeling? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I felt jealous of Eilert for having had it in him to write such a book. + Only think, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, I am thinking! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And then how pitiful to think that he—with all his gifts—should + be irreclaimable, after all. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I suppose you mean that he has more courage than the rest? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, not at all—I mean that he is incapable of taking his pleasure in + moderation. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And what came of it all—in the end? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, to tell the truth, I think it might best be described as an orgie, + Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Had he vine-leaves in his hair? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Vine-leaves? No, I saw nothing of the sort. But he made a long, rambling + speech in honour of the woman who had inspired him in his work—that + was the phrase he used. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Did he name her? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, he didn't; but I can't help thinking he meant Mrs. Elvsted. You may be + sure he did. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well—where did you part from him? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + On the way to town. We broke up—the last of us at any rate—all + together; and Brack came with us to get a breath of fresh air. And then, + you see, we agreed to take Eilert home; for he had had far more than was + good for him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I daresay. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But now comes the strange part of it, Hedda; or, I should rather say, the + melancholy part of it. I declare I am almost ashamed—on Eilert's + account—to tell you— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, go on—! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, as we were getting near town, you see, I happened to drop a little + behind the others. Only for a minute or two—fancy that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes yes yes, but—? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And then, as I hurried after them—what do you think I found by the + wayside? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, how should I know! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + You mustn't speak of it to a soul, Hedda! Do you hear! Promise me, for + Eilert's sake. [Draws a parcel, wrapped in paper, from his coat pocket.] + Fancy, dear—I found this. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Is not that the parcel he had with him yesterday? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, it is the whole of his precious, irreplaceable manuscript! And he had + gone and lost it, and knew nothing about it. Only fancy, Hedda! So + deplorably— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But why did you not give him back the parcel at once? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I didn't dare to—in the state he was then in— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Did you not tell any of the others that you had found it? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, far from it! You can surely understand that, for Eilert's sake, I + wouldn't do that. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + So no one knows that Eilert Lovborg's manuscript is in your possession? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No. And no one must know it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Then what did you say to him afterwards? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I didn't talk to him again at all; for when we got in among the streets, + he and two or three of the others gave us the slip and disappeared. Fancy + that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Indeed! They must have taken him home then. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so it would appear. And Brack, too, left us. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And what have you been doing with yourself since? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, I and some of the others went home with one of the party, a jolly + fellow, and took our morning coffee with him; or perhaps I should rather + call it our night coffee—eh? But now, when I have rested a little, + and given Eilert, poor fellow, time to have his sleep out, I must take + this back to him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Holds out her hand for the packet.] No—don't give it to him! Not in + such a hurry, I mean. Let me read it first. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, my dearest Hedda, I mustn't, I really mustn't. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You must not? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No—for you can imagine what a state of despair he will be in when he + wakens and misses the manuscript. He has no copy of it, you must know! He + told me so. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking searchingly at him.] Can such a thing not be reproduced? Written + over again? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, I don't think that would be possible. For the inspiration, you see— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes—I suppose it depends on that—[Lightly.] But, + by-the-bye —here is a letter for you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy—! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Handing it to him.] It came early this morning. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + It's from Aunt Julia! What can it be? [He lays the packet on the other + footstool, opens the letter, runs his eye through it, and jumps up.] Oh, + Hedda—she says that poor Aunt Rina is dying! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, we were prepared for that. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And that if I want to see her again, I must make haste. I'll run in to + them at once. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Suppressing a smile.] Will you run? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, my dearest Hedda—if you could only make up your mind to come + with me! Just think! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rises and says wearily, repelling the idea.] No, no don't ask me. I will + not look upon sickness and death. I loathe all sorts of ugliness. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well, well, then—! [Bustling around.] My hat—? My overcoat—? + Oh, in the hall—. I do hope I mayn't come too late, Hedda! Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, if you run— [BERTA appears at the hall door. + </p> + <p> + BERTA. + </p> + <p> + Judge Brack is at the door, and wishes to know if he may come in. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + At this time! No, I can't possibly see him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But I can. [To BERTA.] Ask Judge Brack to come in. [BERTA goes out. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Quickly, whispering.] The parcel, Tesman! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She snatches it up from the stool. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, give it to me! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no, I will keep it till you come back. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes to the writing-table and places it in the bookcase. + TESMAN stands in a flurry of haste, and cannot get his + gloves on. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + JUDGE BRACK enters from the hall. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Nodding to him.] You are an early bird, I must say. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, don't you think so! [To TESMAN.] Are you on the move, too? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I must rush of to my aunts'. Fancy—the invalid one is lying at + death's door, poor creature. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Dear me, is she indeed? Then on no account let me detain you. At such a + critical moment— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I must really rush— Good-bye! Good-bye! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He hastens out by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Approaching.] You seem to have made a particularly lively night of it at + your rooms, Judge Brack. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I assure you I have not had my clothes off, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not you, either? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No, as you may see. But what has Tesman been telling you of the night's + adventures? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, some tiresome story. Only that they went and had coffee somewhere or + other. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I have heard about that coffee-party already. Eilert Lovborg was not with + them, I fancy? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, they had taken him home before that. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Tesman too? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, but some of the others, he said. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling.] George Tesman is really an ingenuous creature, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, heaven knows he is. Then is there something behind all this? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, perhaps there may be. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well then, sit down, my dear Judge, and tell your story in comfort. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She seats herself to the left of the table. BRACK sits near + her, at the long side of the table. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Now then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I had special reasons for keeping track of my guests—last night. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of Eilert Lovborg among the rest, perhaps? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Frankly, yes. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Now you make me really curious— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Do you know where he and one or two of the others finished the night, Mrs. + Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + If it is not quite unmentionable, tell me. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, it's not at all unmentionable. Well, they put in an appearance at a + particularly animated soiree. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of the lively kind? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Of the very liveliest— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Tell me more of this, Judge Brack— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Lovborg, as well as the others, had been invited in advance. I knew all + about it. But he had declined the invitation; for now, as you know, he has + become a new man. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Up at the Elvsteds', yes. But he went after all, then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, you see, Mrs. Hedda—unhappily the spirit moved him at my rooms + last evening— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I hear he found inspiration. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Pretty violent inspiration. Well, I fancy that altered his purpose; for we + menfolk are unfortunately not always so firm in our principles as we ought + to be. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I am sure you are an exception, Judge Brack. But as to Lovborg—? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + To make a long story short—he landed at last in Mademoiselle Diana's + rooms. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Mademoiselle Diana's? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + It was Mademoiselle Diana that was giving the soiree, to a select circle + of her admirers and her lady friends. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Is she a red-haired woman? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Precisely. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + A sort of a—singer? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes—in her leisure moments. And moreover a mighty huntress—of + men—Mrs. Hedda. You have no doubt heard of her. Eilert Lovborg was + one of her most enthusiastic protectors—in the days of his glory. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And how did all this end? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Far from amicably, it appears. After a most tender meeting, they seem to + have come to blows— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Lovborg and she? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes. He accused her or her friends of having robbed him. He declared that + his pocket-book had disappeared—and other things as well. In short, + he seems to have made a furious disturbance. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And what came of it all? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + It came to a general scrimmage, in which the ladies as well as the + gentlemen took part. Fortunately the police at last appeared on the scene. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The police too? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes. I fancy it will prove a costly frolic for Eilert Lovborg, crazy being + that he is. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + How so? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + He seems to have made a violent resistance—to have hit one of the + constables on the head and torn the coat off his back. So they had to + march him off to the police-station with the rest. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + How have you learnt all this? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + From the police themselves. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Gazing straight before her.] So that is what happened. Then he had no + vine-leaves in his hair. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Vine-leaves, Mrs. Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Changing her tone.] But tell me now, Judge—what is your real reason + for tracking out Eilert Lovborg's movements so carefully? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, it could not be entirely indifferent to me if it + should appear in the police-court that he came straight from my house. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Will the matter come into court then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Of course. However, I should scarcely have troubled so much about that. + But I thought that, as a friend of the family, it was my duty to supply + you and Tesman with a full account of his nocturnal exploits. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why so, Judge Brack? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Why, because I have a shrewd suspicion that he intends to use you as a + sort of blind. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, how can you think such a thing! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Good heavens, Mrs. Hedda—we have eyes in our head. Mark my words! + This Mrs. Elvsted will be in no hurry to leave town again. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, even if there should be anything between them, I suppose there are + plenty of other places where they could meet. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Not a single home. Henceforth, as before, every respectable house will be + closed against Eilert Lovborg. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And so ought mine to be, you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes. I confess it would be more than painful to me if this personage were + to be made free of your house. How superfluous, how intrusive, he would + be, if he were to force his way into— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + —into the triangle? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Precisely. It would simply mean that I should find myself homeless. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at him with a smile.] So you want to be the one cock in the basket<a + name="H12a" id="H12a"></a>(<a href="#link12">12</a>)—that is + your aim. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Nods slowly and lowers his voice.] Yes, that is my aim. And for that I + will fight—with every weapon I can command. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Her smile vanishing.] I see you are a dangerous person—when it + comes to the point. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Do you think so? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I am beginning to think so. And I am exceedingly glad to think—that + you have no sort of hold over me. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing equivocally.] Well well, Mrs. Hedda—perhaps you are right + there. If I had, who knows what I might be capable of? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Come come now, Judge Brack! That sounds almost like a threat. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] Oh, not at all! The triangle, you know, ought, if possible, to + be spontaneously constructed. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + There I agree with you. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, now I have said all I had to say; and I had better be getting back + to town. Good-bye, Mrs. Hedda. [He goes towards the glass door. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Rising.] Are you going through the garden? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, it's a short cut for me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And then it is a back way, too. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Quite so. I have no objection to back ways. They may be piquant enough at + times. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + When there is ball practice going on, you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [In the doorway, laughing to her.] Oh, people don't shoot their tame + poultry, I fancy. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Also laughing.] Oh no, when there is only one cock in the basket— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [They exchange laughing nods of farewell. He goes. She closes + the door behind him. + + [HEDDA, who has become quite serious, stands for a moment + looking out. Presently she goes and peeps through the + curtain over the middle doorway. Then she goes to the + writing-table, takes LOVBORG'S packet out of the bookcase, + and is on the point of looking through its contents. BERTA + is heard speaking loudly in the hall. HEDDA turns and + listens. Then she hastily locks up the packet in the drawer, + and lays the key on the inkstand. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + EILERT LOVBORG, with his greatcoat on and his hat in his + hand, tears open the hall door. He looks somewhat confused + and irritated. +</pre> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looking towards the hall.] and I tell you I must and will come in! There! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He closes the door, turns, sees HEDDA, at once regains his self- + control, and bows. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [At the writing-table.] Well, Mr Lovborg, this is rather a late hour to + call for Thea. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You mean rather an early hour to call on you. Pray pardon me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + How do you know that she is still here? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + They told me at her lodgings that she had been out all night. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Going to the oval table.] Did you notice anything about the people of the + house when they said that? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks inquiringly at her.] Notice anything about them? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I mean, did they seem to think it odd? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Suddenly understanding.] Oh yes, of course! I am dragging her down with + me! However, I didn't notice anything.—I suppose Tesman is not up + yet. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No—I think not— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + When did he come home? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Very late. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Did he tell you anything? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I gathered that you had had an exceedingly jolly evening at Judge + Brack's. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Nothing more? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I don't think so. However, I was so dreadfully sleepy— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MRS. ELVSTED enters through the curtains of the middle doorway. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Going towards him.] Ah, Lovborg! At last—! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, at last. And too late! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looks anxiously at him.] What is too late? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Everything is too late now. It is all over with me. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh no, no—don't say that! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You will say the same when you hear— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I won't hear anything! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps you would prefer to talk to her alone? If so, I will leave you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + No, stay—you too. I beg you to stay. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, but I won't hear anything, I tell you. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It is not last night's adventures that I want to talk about. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + What is it then—? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I want to say that now our ways must part. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Part! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Involuntarily.] I knew it! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You can be of no more service to me, Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + How can you stand there and say that! No more service to you! Am I not to + help you now, as before? Are we not to go on working together? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Henceforward I shall do no work. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Despairingly.] Then what am I to do with my life? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You must try to live your life as if you had never known me. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + But you know I cannot do that! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Try if you cannot, Thea. You must go home again— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [In vehement protest.] Never in this world! Where you are, there will I be + also! I will not let myself be driven away like this! I will remain here! + I will be with you when the book appears. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Half aloud, in suspense.] Ah yes—the book! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her.] My book and Thea's; for that is what it is. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I feel that it is. And that is why I have a right to be with you when + it appears! I will see with my own eyes how respect and honour pour in + upon you afresh. And the happiness—the happiness—oh, I must + share it with you! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Thea—our book will never appear. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Never appear! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Can never appear. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [In agonised foreboding.] Lovborg—what have you done with the + manuscript? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks anxiously at him.] Yes, the manuscript—? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Where is it? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + The manuscript—. Well then—I have torn the manuscript into a + thousand pieces. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Shrieks.] Oh no, no—! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Involuntarily.] But that's not— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her.] Not true, you think? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Collecting herself.] Oh well, of course—since you say so. But it + sounded so improbable— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It is true, all the same. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Wringing her hands.] Oh God—oh God, Hedda—torn his own work + to pieces! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I have torn my own life to pieces. So why should I not tear my life-work + too—? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + And you did this last night? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I tell you! Tore it into a thousand pieces—and scattered them + on the fiord—far out. There there is cool sea-water at any rate—let + them drift upon it—drift with the current and the wind. And then + presently they will sink—deeper and deeper—as I shall, Thea. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Do you know, Lovborg, that what you have done with the book—I shall + think of it to my dying day as though you had killed a little child. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes, you are right. It is a sort of child-murder. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + How could you, then—! Did not the child belong to me too? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Almost inaudibly.] Ah, the child— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Breathing heavily.] It is all over then. Well well, now I will go, Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But you are not going away from town? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I don't know what I shall do. I see nothing but darkness before me. + [She goes out by the hall door. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Stands waiting for a moment.] So you are not going to see her home, Mr. + Lovborg? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I? Through the streets? Would you have people see her walking with me? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Of course I don't know what else may have happened last night. But is it + so utterly irretrievable? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + It will not end with last night—I know that perfectly well. And the + thing is that now I have no taste for that sort of life either. I won't + begin it anew. She has broken my courage and my power of braving life out. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looking straight before her.] So that pretty little fool has had her + fingers in a man's destiny. [Looks at him.] But all the same, how could + you treat her so heartlessly. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Oh, don't say that I was heartless! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + To go and destroy what has filled her whole soul for months and years! You + do not call that heartless! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + To you I can tell the truth, Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The truth? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + First promise me—give me your word—that what I now confide in + you Thea shall never know. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I give you my word. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Good. Then let me tell you that what I said just now was untrue. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + About the manuscript? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Yes. I have not torn it to pieces—nor thrown it into the fiord. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no—. But—where is it then? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + I have destroyed it none the less—utterly destroyed it, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I don't understand. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Thea said that what I had done seemed to her like a child-murder. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so she said. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + But to kill his child—that is not the worst thing a father can do to + it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not the worst? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Suppose now, Hedda, that a man—in the small hours of the morning—came + home to his child's mother after a night of riot and debauchery, and said: + "Listen—I have been here and there—in this place and in that. + And I have taken our child with—to this place and to that. And I + have lost the child—utterly lost it. The devil knows into what hands + it may have fallen—who may have had their clutches on it." + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well—but when all is said and done, you know—this was only a + book— + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Thea's pure soul was in that book. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so I understand. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + And you can understand, too, that for her and me together no future is + possible. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What path do you mean to take then? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + None. I will only try to make an end of it all—the sooner the + better. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [A step nearer him.] Eilert Lovborg—listen to me.—Will you not + try to—to do it beautifully? + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Beautifully? [Smiling.] With vine-leaves in my hair, as you used to dream + in the old days—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no. I have lost my faith in the vine-leaves. But beautifully + nevertheless! For once in a way!—Good-bye! You must go now—and + do not come here any more. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Good-bye, Mrs. Tesman. And give George Tesman my love. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He is on the point of going. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, wait! I must give you a memento to take with you. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She goes to the writing-table and opens the drawer and the + pistol-case; then returns to LOVBORG with one of the pistols. +</pre> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Looks at her.] This? Is this the memento? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Nodding slowly.] Do you recognise it? It was aimed at you once. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + You should have used it then. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Take it—and do you use it now. + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + [Puts the pistol in his breast pocket.] Thanks! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And beautifully, Eilert Lovborg. Promise me that! + </p> + <p> + LOVBORG. + </p> + <p> + Good-bye, Hedda Gabler. [He goes out by the hall door. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [HEDDA listens for a moment at the door. Then she goes up to + the writing-table, takes out the packet of manuscript, peeps + under the cover, draws a few of the sheets half out, and + looks at them. Next she goes over and seats herself in the + arm-chair beside the stove, with the packet in her lap. + Presently she opens the stove door, and then the packet. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Throws one of the quires into the fire and whispers to herself.] Now I am + burning your child, Thea!—Burning it, curly-locks! [Throwing one or + two more quires into the stove.] Your child and Eilert Lovborg's. [Throws + the rest in.] I am burning—I am burning your child. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT FOURTH. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The same rooms at the TESMANS'. It is evening. The drawing- + room is in darkness. The back room is lighted by the hanging + lamp over the table. The curtains over the glass door are + drawn close. + + HEDDA, dressed in black, walks to and fro in the dark room. + Then she goes into the back room and disappears for a moment + to the left. She is heard to strike a few chords on the + piano. Presently she comes in sight again, and returns to + the drawing-room. + + BERTA enters from the right, through the inner room, with a + lighted lamp, which she places on the table in front of the + corner settee in the drawing-room. Her eyes are red with + weeping, and she has black ribbons in her cap. She goes + quietly and circumspectly out to the right. HEDDA goes up + to the glass door, lifts the curtain a little aside, and + looks out into the darkness. + + Shortly afterwards, MISS TESMAN, in mourning, with a bonnet + and veil on, comes in from the hall. HEDDA goes towards her + and holds out her hand. +</pre> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, Hedda, here I am, in mourning and forlorn; for now my poor sister has + at last found peace. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I have heard the news already, as you see. Tesman sent me a card. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, he promised me he would. But nevertheless I thought that to Hedda—here + in the house of life—I ought myself to bring the tidings of death. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That was very kind of you. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Ah, Rina ought not to have left us just now. This is not the time for + Hedda's house to be a house of mourning. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Changing the subject.] She died quite peacefully, did she not, Miss + Tesman? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, her end was so calm, so beautiful. And then she had the unspeakable + happiness of seeing George once more—and bidding him good-bye.—Has + he not come home yet? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. He wrote that he might be detained. But won't you sit down? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No thank you, my dear, dear Hedda. I should like to, but I have so much to + do. I must prepare my dear one for her rest as well as I can. She shall go + to her grave looking her best. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Can I not help you in any way? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you must not think of it! Hedda Tesman must have no hand in such + mournful work. Nor let her thought dwell on it either—not at this + time. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + One is not always mistress of one's thoughts— + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Continuing.] Ah yes, it is the way of the world. At home we shall be + sewing a shroud; and here there will soon be sewing too, I suppose—but + of another sort, thank God! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + GEORGE TESMAN enters by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah, you have come at last! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + You here, Aunt Julia? With Hedda? Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I was just going, my dear boy. Well, have you done all you promised? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No; I'm really afraid I have forgotten half of it. I must come to you + again to-morrow. To-day my brain is all in a whirl. I can't keep my + thoughts together. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, my dear George, you mustn't take it in this way. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Mustn't—? How do you mean? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Even in your sorrow you must rejoice, as I do—rejoice that she is at + rest. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, yes—you are thinking of Aunt Rina. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You will feel lonely now, Miss Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Just at first, yes. But that will not last very long, I hope. I daresay I + shall soon find an occupant for Rina's little room. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? Who do you think will take it? Eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, there's always some poor invalid or other in want of nursing, + unfortunately. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Would you really take such a burden upon you again? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + A burden! Heaven forgive you, child—it has been no burden to me. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But suppose you had a total stranger on your hands— + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, one soon makes friends with sick folk; and it's such an absolute + necessity for me to have some one to live for. Well, heaven be praised, + there may soon be something in this house, too, to keep an old aunt busy. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, don't trouble about anything here. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, just fancy what a nice time we three might have together, if—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + If—? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Uneasily.] Oh nothing. It will all come right. Let us hope so—eh? + </p> + <p> + MISS TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well well, I daresay you two want to talk to each other. [Smiling.] And + perhaps Hedda may have something to tell you too, George. Good-bye! I must + go home to Rina. [Turning at the door.] How strange it is to think that + now Rina is with me and with my poor brother as well! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, fancy that, Aunt Julia! Eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [MISS TESMAN goes out by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Follows TESMAN coldly and searchingly with her eyes.] I almost believe + your Aunt Rina's death affects you more than it does your Aunt Julia. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, it's not that alone. It's Eilert I am so terribly uneasy about. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Quickly.] Is there anything new about him? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I looked in at his rooms this afternoon, intending to tell him the + manuscript was in safe keeping. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, did you find him? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No. He wasn't at home. But afterwards I met Mrs. Elvsted, and she told me + that he had been here early this morning. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, directly after you had gone. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And he said that he had torn his manuscript to pieces—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, so he declared. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, good heavens, he must have been completely out of his mind! And I + suppose you thought it best not to give it back to him, Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, he did not get it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But of course you told him that we had it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. [Quickly.] Did you tell Mrs. Elvsted? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No; I thought I had better not. But you ought to have told him. Fancy, if, + in desperation, he should go and do himself some injury! Let me have the + manuscript, Hedda! I will take it to him at once. Where is it? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Cold and immovable, leaning on the arm-chair.] I have not got it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Have not got it? What in the world do you mean? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I have burnt it—every line of it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [With a violent movement of terror.] Burnt! Burnt Eilert's manuscript! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Don't scream so. The servant might hear you. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Burnt! Why, good God—! No, no, no! It's impossible! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + It is so, nevertheless. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Do you know what you have done, Hedda? It's unlawful appropriation of lost + property. Fancy that! Just ask Judge Brack, and he'll tell you what it is. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I advise you not to speak of it—either to Judge Brack or to anyone + else. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But how could you do anything so unheard-of? What put it into your head? + What possessed you? Answer me that—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Suppressing an almost imperceptible smile.] I did it for your sake, + George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + For my sake! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + This morning, when you told me about what he had read to you— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes yes—what then? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You acknowledged that you envied him his work. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, of course I didn't mean that literally. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No matter—I could not bear the idea that any one should throw you + into the shade. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [In an outburst of mingled doubt and joy.] Hedda! Oh, is this true? But—but—I + never knew you show your love like that before. Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, I may as well tell you that—just at this time— + [Impatiently breaking off.] No, no; you can ask Aunt Julia. She will tell + you, fast enough. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I almost think I understand you, Hedda! [Clasps his hands together.] + Great heavens! do you really mean it! Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Don't shout so. The servant might hear. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Laughing in irrepressible glee.] The servant! Why, how absurd you are, + Hedda. It's only my old Berta! Why, I'll tell Berta myself. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Clenching her hands together in desperation.] Oh, it is killing me, + —it is killing me, all this! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What is, Hedda? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Coldly, controlling herself.] All this—absurdity—George. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Absurdity! Do you see anything absurd in my being overjoyed at the news! + But after all—perhaps I had better not say anything to Berta. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh—why not that too? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, no, not yet! But I must certainly tell Aunt Julia. And then that you + have begun to call me George too! Fancy that! Oh, Aunt Julia will be so + happy—so happy! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + When she hears that I have burnt Eilert Lovborg's manuscript—for + your sake? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, by-the-bye—that affair of the manuscript—of course nobody + must know about that. But that you love me so much,<a name="H13a" + id="H13a"></a>(<a href="#link13">13</a>) Hedda—Aunt Julia must + really share my joy in that! I wonder, now, whether this sort of thing is + usual in young wives? Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I think you had better ask Aunt Julia that question too. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I will indeed, some time or other. [Looks uneasy and downcast again.] And + yet the manuscript—the manuscript! Good God! it is terrible to think + what will become of poor Eilert now. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MRS. ELVSTED, dressed as in the first Act, with hat and cloak, + enters by the hall door. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Greets them hurriedly, and says in evident agitation.] Oh, dear Hedda, + forgive my coming again. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What is the matter with you, Thea? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Something about Eilert Lovborg again—eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes! I am dreadfully afraid some misfortune has happened to him. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Seized her arm.] Ah,—do you think so? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Why, good Lord—what makes you think that, Mrs. Elvsted? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + I heard them talking of him at my boarding-house—just as I came in. + Oh, the most incredible rumours are afloat about him to-day. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, fancy, so I heard too! And I can bear witness that he went straight + home to bed last night. Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, what did they say at the boarding-house? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I couldn't make out anything clearly. Either they knew nothing + definite, or else—. They stopped talking when the saw me; and I did + not dare to ask. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Moving about uneasily.] We must hope—we must hope that you + misunderstood them, Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, no; I am sure it was of him they were talking. And I heard something + about the hospital or— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + The hospital? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No—surely that cannot be! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I was in such mortal terror! I went to his lodgings and asked for him + there. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You could make up your mind to that, Thea! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + What else could I do? I really could bear the suspense no longer. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But you didn't find him either—eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No. And the people knew nothing about him. He hadn't been home since + yesterday afternoon, they said. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yesterday! Fancy, how could they say that? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I am sure something terrible must have happened to him. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Hedda dear—how would it be if I were to go and make inquiries—? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No, no—don't you mix yourself up in this affair. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + JUDGE BRACK, with his hat in his hand, enters by the hall + door, which BERTA opens, and closes behind him. He looks + grave and bows in silence. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, is that you, my dear Judge? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes. It was imperative I should see you this evening. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + I can see you have heard the news about Aunt Rina? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, that among other things. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Isn't it sad—eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, my dear Tesman, that depends on how you look at it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Looks doubtfully at him.] Has anything else happened? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In suspense.] Anything sad, Judge Brack? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + That, too, depends on how you look at it, Mrs. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Unable to restrain her anxiety.] Oh! it is something about Eilert + Lovborg! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With a glance at her.] What makes you think that, Madam? Perhaps you have + already heard something—? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [In confusion.] No, nothing at all, but— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, for heaven's sake, tell us! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Shrugging his shoulders.] Well, I regret to say Eilert Lovborg has been + taken to the hospital. He is lying at the point of death. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Shrieks.] Oh God! oh God—! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + To the hospital! And at the point of death! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Involuntarily.] So soon then— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Wailing.] And we parted in anger, Hedda! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Whispers.] Thea—Thea—be careful! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Not heeding her.] I must go to him! I must see him alive! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + It is useless, Madam. No one will be admitted. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, at least tell me what has happened to him? What is it? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + You don't mean to say that he has himself— Eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am sure he has. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Keeping his eyes fixed upon her.] Unfortunately you have guessed quite + correctly, Mrs. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, how horrible! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Himself, then! Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Shot himself! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Rightly guessed again, Mrs. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [With an effort at self-control.] When did it happen, Mr. Brack? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + This afternoon—between three and four. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But, good Lord, where did he do it? Eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With some hesitation.] Where? Well—I suppose at his lodgings. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, that cannot be; for I was there between six and seven. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well then, somewhere else. I don't know exactly. I only know that he was + found—. He had shot himself—in the breast. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, how terrible! That he should die like that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [To BRACK.] Was it in the breast? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes—as I told you. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not in the temple? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + In the breast, Mrs. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Well, well—the breast is a good place, too. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + How do you mean, Mrs. Tesman? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Evasively.] Oh, nothing—nothing. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And the wound is dangerous, you say—eh? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Absolutely mortal. The end has probably come by this time. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, I feel it. The end! The end! Oh, Hedda—! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + But tell me, how have you learnt all this? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Curtly.] Through one of the police. A man I had some business with. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In a clear voice.] At last a deed worth doing! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Terrified.] Good heavens, Hedda! what are you saying? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I say there is beauty in this. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + H'm, Mrs. Tesman— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, Hedda, how can you talk of beauty in such an act! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Eilert Lovborg has himself made up his account with life. He has had the + courage to do—the one right thing. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + No, you must never think that was how it happened! It must have been in + delirium that he did it. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + In despair! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + That he did not. I am certain of that. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes! In delirium! Just as when he tore up our manuscript. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Starting.] The manuscript? Has he torn that up? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, last night. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Whispers softly.] Oh, Hedda, we shall never get over this. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + H'm, very extraordinary. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Moving about the room.] To think of Eilert going out of the world in this + way! And not leaving behind him the book that would have immortalised his + name— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, if only it could be put together again! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, if it only could! I don't know what I would not give— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps it can, Mr. Tesman. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + What do you mean? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Searches in the pocket of her dress.] Look here. I have kept all the + loose notes he used to dictate from. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [A step forward.] Ah—! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + You have kept them, Mrs. Elvsted! Eh? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I have them here. I put them in my pocket when I left home. Here they + still are— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, do let me see them! + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Hands him a bundle of papers.] But they are in such disorder—all + mixed up. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Fancy, if we could make something out of them, after all! Perhaps if we + two put our heads together— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh yes, at least let us try— + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + We will manage it! We must! I will dedicate my life to this task. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + You, George? Your life? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, or rather all the time I can spare. My own collections must wait in + the meantime. Hedda—you understand, eh? I owe this to Eilert's + memory. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + And so, my dear Mrs. Elvsted, we will give our whole minds to it. There is + no use in brooding over what can't be undone—eh? We must try to + control our grief as much as possible, and— + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Yes, yes, Mr. Tesman, I will do the best I can. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Well then, come here. I can't rest until we have looked through the notes. + Where shall we sit? Here? No, in there, in the back room. Excuse me, my + dear Judge. Come with me, Mrs. Elvsted. + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Oh, if only it were possible! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED go into the back room. She takes + off her hat and cloak. They both sit at the table under the + hanging lamp, and are soon deep in an eager examination of + the papers. HEDDA crosses to the stove and sits in the arm- + chair. Presently BRACK goes up to her. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In a low voice.] Oh, what a sense of freedom it gives one, this act of + Eilert Lovborg's. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Freedom, Mrs. Hedda? Well, of course, it is a release for him— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I mean for me. It gives me a sense of freedom to know that a deed of + deliberate courage is still possible in this world,—a deed of + spontaneous beauty. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling.] H'm—my dear Mrs. Hedda— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, I know what you are going to say. For you are a kind of specialist + too, like—you know! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Looking hard at her.] Eilert Lovborg was more to you than perhaps you are + willing to admit to yourself. Am I wrong? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I don't answer such questions. I only know that Eilert Lovborg has had the + courage to live his life after his own fashion. And then—the last + great act, with its beauty! Ah! that he should have the will and the + strength to turn away from the banquet of life—so early. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I am sorry, Mrs. Hedda,—but I fear I must dispel an amiable + illusion. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Illusion? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Which could not have lasted long in any case. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What do you mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Eilert Lovborg did not shoot himself—voluntarily. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Not voluntarily? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No. The thing did not happen exactly as I told it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In suspense.] Have you concealed something? What is it? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + For poor Mrs. Elvsted's sake I idealised the facts a little. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What are the facts? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + First, that he is already dead. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + At the hospital? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes—without regaining consciousness. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What more have you concealed? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + This—the event did not happen at his lodgings. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, that can make no difference. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps it may. For I must tell you—Eilert Lovborg was found shot in—in + Mademoiselle Diana's boudoir. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Makes a motion as if to rise, but sinks back again.] That is impossible, + Judge Brack! He cannot have been there again to-day. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + He was there this afternoon. He went there, he said, to demand the return + of something which they had taken from him. Talked wildly about a lost + child— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Ah—so that is why— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + I thought probably he meant his manuscript; but now I hear he destroyed + that himself. So I suppose it must have been his pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, no doubt. And there—there he was found? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, there. With a pistol in his breast-pocket, discharged. The ball had + lodged in a vital part. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + In the breast—yes? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No—in the bowels. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks up at him with an expression of loathing.] That too! Oh, what curse + is it that makes everything I touch turn ludicrous and mean? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + There is one point more, Mrs. Hedda—another disagreeable feature in + the affair. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + And what is that? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + The pistol he carried— + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Breathless.] Well? What of it? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + He must have stolen it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Leaps up.] Stolen it! That is not true! He did not steal it! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No other explanation is possible. He must have stolen it—. Hush! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED have risen from the table in the back- + room, and come into the drawing-room. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [With the papers in both his hands.] Hedda, dear, it is almost impossible + to see under that lamp. Think of that! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, I am thinking. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Would you mind our sitting at your writing-table—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + If you like. [Quickly.] No, wait! Let me clear it first! + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you needn't trouble, Hedda. There is plenty of room. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No no, let me clear it, I say! I will take these things in and put them on + the piano. There! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [She has drawn out an object, covered with sheet music, from + under the bookcase, places several other pieces of music upon + it, and carries the whole into the inner room, to the left. + TESMAN lays the scraps of paper on the writing-table, and moves + the lamp there from the corner table. He and Mrs. Elvsted sit + down and proceed with their work. HEDDA returns. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Behind Mrs. Elvsted's chair, gently ruffling her hair.] Well, my sweet + Thea,—how goes it with Eilert Lovborg's monument? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Looks dispiritedly up at her.] Oh, it will be terribly hard to put in + order. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + We must manage it. I am determined. And arranging other people's papers is + just the work for me. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [HEDDA goes over to the stove, and seats herself on one of the + footstools. BRACK stands over her, leaning on the arm-chair. +</pre> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Whispers.] What did you say about the pistol? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Softly.] That he must have stolen it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Why stolen it? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Because every other explanation ought to be impossible, Mrs. Hedda. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Indeed? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Glances at her.] Of course Eilert Lovborg was here this morning. Was he + not? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Were you alone with him? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Part of the time. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Did you not leave the room whilst he was here? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Try to recollect. Were you not out of the room a moment? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Yes, perhaps just a moment—out in the hall. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + And where was your pistol-case during that time? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I had it locked up in— + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, Mrs. Hedda? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The case stood there on the writing-table. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Have you looked since, to see whether both the pistols are there? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + No. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, you need not. I saw the pistol found in Lovborg's pocket, and I knew + it at once as the one I had seen yesterday—and before, too. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Have you it with you? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No; the police have it. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + What will the police do with it? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Search till they find the owner. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Do you think they will succeed? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Bends over her and whispers.] No, Hedda Gabler—not so long as I say + nothing. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks frightened at him.] And if you do not say nothing,—what then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Shrugs his shoulders.] There is always the possibility that the pistol + was stolen. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Firmly.] Death rather than that. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Smiling.] People say such things—but they don't do them. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Without replying.] And supposing the pistol was not stolen, and the owner + is discovered? What then? + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, Hedda—then comes the scandal! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + The scandal! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Yes, the scandal—of which you are so mortally afraid. You will, of + course, be brought before the court—both you and Mademoiselle Diana. + She will have to explain how the thing happened—whether it was an + accidental shot or murder. Did the pistol go off as he was trying to take + it out of his pocket, to threaten her with? Or did she tear the pistol out + of his hand, shoot him, and push it back into his pocket? That would be + quite like her; for she is an able-bodied young person, this same + Mademoiselle Diana. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + But <i>I</i> have nothing to do with all this repulsive business. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + No. But you will have to answer the question: Why did you give Eilert the + pistol? And what conclusions will people draw from the fact that you did + give it to him? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Lets her head sink.] That is true. I did not think of that. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + Well, fortunately, there is no danger, so long as I say nothing. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Looks up at him.] So I am in your power, Judge Brack. You have me at your + beck and call, from this time forward. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Whispers softly.] Dearest Hedda—believe me—I shall not abuse + my advantage. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + I am in your power none the less. Subject to your will and your demands. A + slave, a slave then! [Rises impetuously.] No, I cannot endure the thought + of that! Never! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Looks half-mockingly at her.] People generally get used to the + inevitable. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Returns his look.] Yes, perhaps. [She crosses to the writing-table. + Suppressing an involuntary smile, she imitates TESMAN'S intonations.] + Well? Are you getting on, George? Eh? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Heaven knows, dear. In any case it will be the work of months. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [As before.] Fancy that! [Passes her hands softly through Mrs. Elvsted's + hair.] Doesn't it seem strange to you, Thea? Here are you sitting with + Tesman—just as you used to sit with Eilert Lovborg? + </p> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + Ah, if I could only inspire your husband in the same way! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Oh, that will come too—in time. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, do you know, Hedda—I really think I begin to feel something of + the sort. But won't you go and sit with Brack again? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Is there nothing I can do to help you two? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + No, nothing in the world. [Turning his head.] I trust to you to keep Hedda + company, my dear Brack. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [With a glance at HEDDA.] With the very greatest of pleasure. + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + Thanks. But I am tired this evening. I will go in and lie down a little on + the sofa. + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Yes, do dear—eh? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [HEDDA goes into the back room and draws the curtains. A short + pause. Suddenly she is heard playing a wild dance on the piano. +</pre> + <p> + MRS. ELVSTED. + </p> + <p> + [Starts from her chair.] Oh—what is that? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Runs to the doorway.] Why, my dearest Hedda—don't play dance-music + to-night! Just think of Aunt Rina! And of Eilert too! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Puts her head out between the curtains.] And of Aunt Julia. And of all + the rest of them.—After this, I will be quiet. [Closes the curtains + again.] + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [At the writing-table.] It's not good for her to see us at this + distressing work. I'll tell you what, Mrs. Elvsted,—you shall take + the empty room at Aunt Julia's, and then I will come over in the evenings, + and we can sit and work there—eh? + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [In the inner room.] I hear what you are saying, Tesman. But how am <i>I</i> + to get through the evenings out here? + </p> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Turning over the papers.] Oh, I daresay Judge Brack will be so kind as to + look in now and then, even though I am out. + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [In the arm-chair, calls out gaily.] Every blessed evening, with all the + pleasure in life, Mrs. Tesman! We shall get on capitally together, we two! + </p> + <p> + HEDDA. + </p> + <p> + [Speaking loud and clear.] Yes, don't you flatter yourself we will, Judge + Brack? Now that you are the one cock in the basket— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [A shot is heard within. TESMAN, MRS. ELVSTED, and BRACK leap + to their feet. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + Oh, now she is playing with those pistols again. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [He throws back the curtains and runs in, followed by MRS. + ELVSTED. HEDDA lies stretched on the sofa, lifeless. + Confusion and cries. BERTA enters in alarm from the right. +</pre> + <p> + TESMAN. + </p> + <p> + [Shrieks to BRACK.] Shot herself! Shot herself in the temple! Fancy that! + </p> + <p> + BRACK. + </p> + <p> + [Half-fainting in the arm-chair.] Good God!—people don't do such + things. + </p> + <p> + THE END + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FOOTNOTES. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + <a name="link1" id="link1"></a><a href="#H1a">(1)</a>Pronounce <i>Reena</i>. + + <a name="link2" id="link2"></a><a href="#H2a">(2)</a>In the original "Statsradinde Falks villa"—showing that it had + belonged to the widow of a cabinet minister. + + <a name="link3" id="link3"></a><a href="#H3a">(3)</a><i>Du</i> equals thou: Tesman means, "If you could persuade yourself + to <i>tutoyer</i> her." + + <a name="link4" id="link4"></a><a href="#H4a">(4)</a>See previous note. + + <a name="link5" id="link5"></a><a href="#H5a">(5)</a>Pronounce <i>Tora</i> and <i>Taya</i>. + + <a name="link6" id="link6"></a><a href="#H6a">(6)</a>Mrs. Elvsted here uses the formal pronoun <i>De</i>, whereupon Hedda + rebukes her. In her next speech Mrs. Elvsted says <i>du</i>. + + <a name="link7" id="link7"></a><a href="#H7a">(7)</a>"Bagveje" means both "back ways" and "underhand courses." + + <a name="link8" id="link8"></a><a href="#H8a">(8)</a>As this form of address is contrary to English usage, and as the + note of familiarity would be lacking in "Mrs. Tesman," Brack may, + in stage representation, say "Miss Hedda," thus ignoring her + marriage and reverting to the form of address no doubt customary + between them of old. + + <a name="link9" id="link9"></a><a href="#H9a">(9)</a>He uses the familiar <i>du</i>. + + <a name="link10" id="link10"></a><a href="#H10a">(10)</a>From this point onward Lovborg use the formal <i>De</i>. + + <a name="link11" id="link11"></a><a href="#H11a">(11)</a>In this speech he once more says <i>du</i>. Hedda addresses him + throughout as <i>De</i>. + + <a name="link12" id="link12"></a><a href="#H12a">(12)</a>"Enest hane i kurven"—a proverbial saying. + + <a name="link13" id="link13"></a><a href="#H13a">(13)</a>Literally, "That you burn for me." +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hedda Gabler, by Henrik Ibsen + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEDDA GABLER *** + +***** This file should be named 4093-h.htm or 4093-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/4/0/9/4093/ + +Produced by Douglas Levy, for Nikki; and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Hedda Gabler + Play In Four Acts + +Author: Henrik Ibsen + +Translator: Edmund Gosse and William Archer + +Release Date: May, 2003 [Etext #4093] +Posting Date: January 4, 2010 +[Last Updated: January 12, 2023] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEDDA GABLER *** + + + + +Produced by Douglas Levy, for Nikki + + + + + +HEDDA GABLER + +By Henrik Ibsen + + +Translated by Edmund Gosse and William Archer + + +Introduction by William Archer + + + + + +INTRODUCTION. + + +From Munich, on June 29, 1890, Ibsen wrote to the Swedish poet, Count +Carl Soilsky: "Our intention has all along been to spend the summer in +the Tyrol again. But circumstances are against our doing so. I am at +present engaged upon a new dramatic work, which for several reasons has +made very slow progress, and I do not leave Munich until I can take with +me the completed first draft. There is little or no prospect of my being +able to complete it in July." Ibsen did not leave Munich at all that +season. On October 30 he wrote: "At present I am utterly engrossed in +a new play. Not one leisure hour have I had for several months." Three +weeks later (November 20) he wrote to his French translator, Count +Prozor: "My new play is finished; the manuscript went off to Copenhagen +the day before yesterday.... It produces a curious feeling of emptiness +to be thus suddenly separated from a work which has occupied one's time +and thoughts for several months, to the exclusion of all else. But it is +a good thing, too, to have done with it. The constant intercourse with +the fictitious personages was beginning to make me quite nervous." To +the same correspondent he wrote on December 4: "The title of the play is +_Hedda Gabler_. My intention in giving it this name was to indicate +that Hedda, as a personality, is to be regarded rather as her father's +daughter than as her husband's wife. It was not my desire to deal in +this play with so-called problems. What I principally wanted to do was +to depict human beings, human emotions, and human destinies, upon a +groundwork of certain of the social conditions and principles of the +present day." + +So far we read the history of the play in the official +"Correspondence."(1) Some interesting glimpses into the poet's moods +during the period between the completion of _The Lady from the Sea_ +and the publication of _Hedda Gabler_ are to be found in the series of +letters to Fraulein Emilie Bardach, of Vienna, published by Dr. George +Brandes.(2) This young lady Ibsen met at Gossensass in the Tyrol in +the autumn of 1889. The record of their brief friendship belongs to the +history of _The Master Builder_ rather than to that of _Hedda Gabler_, +but the allusions to his work in his letters to her during the winter of +1889 demand some examination. + +So early as October 7, 1889, he writes to her: "A new poem begins to +dawn in me. I will execute it this winter, and try to transfer to it +the bright atmosphere of the summer. But I feel that it will end in +sadness--such is my nature." Was this "dawning" poem _Hedda Gabler_? Or +was it rather _The Master Builder_ that was germinating in his mind? Who +shall say? The latter hypothesis seems the more probable, for it is hard +to believe that at any stage in the incubation of _Hedda Gabler_ he can +have conceived it as even beginning in gaiety. A week later, however, +he appears to have made up his mind that the time had not come for the +poetic utilisation of his recent experiences. He writes on October 15: +"Here I sit as usual at my writing-table. Now I would fain work, but +am unable to. My fancy, indeed, is very active. But it always wanders +away ours. I cannot repress my summer memories--nor do I wish to. I live +through my experience again and again and yet again. To transmute it +all into a poem, I find, in the meantime, impossible." Clearly, then, +he felt that his imagination ought to have been engaged on some theme +having no relation to his summer experiences--the theme, no doubt, of +_Hedda Gabler_. In his next letter, dated October 29, he writes: "Do not +be troubled because I cannot, in the meantime, create (_dichten_). In +reality I am for ever creating, or, at any rate, dreaming of something +which, when in the fulness of time it ripens, will reveal itself as +a creation (_Dichtung_)." On November 19 he says: "I am very busily +occupied with preparations for my new poem. I sit almost the whole day +at my writing-table. Go out only in the evening for a little while." The +five following letters contain no allusion to the play; but on September +18, 1890, he wrote: "My wife and son are at present at Riva, on the Lake +of Garda, and will probably remain there until the middle of October, +or even longer. Thus I am quite alone here, and cannot get away. The new +play on which I am at present engaged will probably not be ready until +November, though I sit at my writing-table daily, and almost the whole +day long." + +Here ends the history of _Hedda Gabler_, so far as the poet's +letters carry us. Its hard clear outlines, and perhaps somewhat bleak +atmosphere, seem to have resulted from a sort of reaction against the +sentimental "dreamery" begotten of his Gossensass experiences. He +sought refuge in the chill materialism of Hedda from the ardent +transcendentalism of Hilda, whom he already heard knocking at the door. +He was not yet in the mood to deal with her on the plane of poetry.(3) + +_Hedda Gabler_ was published in Copenhagen on December 16, 1890. This +was the first of Ibsen's plays to be translated from proof-sheets and +published in England and America almost simultaneously with its first +appearance in Scandinavia. The earliest theatrical performance took +place at the Residenz Theater, Munich, on the last day of January 1891, +in the presence of the poet, Frau Conrad-Ramlo playing the title-part. +The Lessing Theater, Berlin, followed suit on February 10. Not till +February 25 was the play seen in Copenhagen, with Fru Hennings as Hedda. +On the following night it was given for the first time in Christiania, +the Norwegian Hedda being Froken Constance Bruun. It was this production +which the poet saw when he visited the Christiania Theater for the first +time after his return to Norway, August 28, 1891. It would take pages +to give even the baldest list of the productions and revivals of _Hedda +Gabler_ in Scandinavia and Germany, where it has always ranked among +Ibsen's most popular works. The admirable production of the play by Miss +Elizabeth Robins and Miss Marion Lea, at the Vaudeville Theatre, +London, April 20, 1891, may rank as the second great step towards +the popularisation of Ibsen in England, the first being the +Charrington-Achurch production of _A Doll's House_ in 1889. Miss Robins +afterwards repeated her fine performance of Hedda many times, in London, +in the English provinces, and in New York. The character has also been +acted in London by Eleonora Duse, and as I write (March, 5, 1907) by +Mrs. Patrick Campbell, at the Court Theatre. In Australia and America, +Hedda has frequently been acted by Miss Nance O'Neill and other +actresses--quite recently by a Russian actress, Madame Alla Nazimova, +who (playing in English) seems to have made a notable success both in +this part and in Nora. The first French Hedda Gabler was Mlle. Marthe +Brandes, who played the part at the Vaudeville Theatre, Paris, on +December 17, 1891, the performance being introduced by a lecture by M. +Jules Lemaitre. In Holland, in Italy, in Russia, the play has been acted +times without number. In short (as might easily have been foretold) it +has rivalled _A Doll's House_ in world-wide popularity. + +It has been suggested,(4) I think without sufficient ground, that Ibsen +deliberately conceived _Hedda Gabler_ as an "international" play, and +that the scene is really the "west end" of any European city. To me +it seems quite clear that Ibsen had Christiania in mind, and the +Christiania of a somewhat earlier period than the 'nineties. The +electric cars, telephones, and other conspicuous factors in the life of +a modern capital are notably absent from the play. There is no electric +light in Secretary Falk's villa. It is still the habit for ladies to +return on foot from evening parties, with gallant swains escorting them. +This "suburbanism," which so distressed the London critics of 1891, +was characteristic of the Christiania Ibsen himself had known in the +'sixties--the Christiania of _Love's Comedy_--rather than of the +greatly extended and modernised city of the end of the century. Moreover +Lovborg's allusions to the fiord, and the suggested picture of Sheriff +Elvsted, his family and his avocations are all distinctively Norwegian. +The truth seems to be very simple--the environment and the subsidiary +personages are all thoroughly national, but Hedda herself is an +"international" type, a product of civilisation by no means peculiar to +Norway. + +We cannot point to any individual model or models who "sat to" Ibsen for +the character of Hedda.(5) The late Grant Allen declared that Hedda was +"nothing more nor less than the girl we take down to dinner in London +nineteen times out of twenty"; in which case Ibsen must have suffered +from a superfluidity of models, rather than from any difficulty in +finding one. But the fact is that in this, as in all other instances, +the word "model" must be taken in a very different sense from that in +which it is commonly used in painting. Ibsen undoubtedly used models for +this trait and that, but never for a whole figure. If his characters can +be called portraits at all, they are composite portraits. Even when it +seems pretty clear that the initial impulse towards the creation of a +particular character came from some individual, the original figure is +entirely transmuted in the process of harmonisation with the dramatic +scheme. We need not, therefore, look for a definite prototype of Hedda; +but Dr. Brandes shows that two of that lady's exploits were probably +suggested by the anecdotic history of the day. + +Ibsen had no doubt heard how the wife of a well-known Norwegian +composer, in a fit of raging jealousy excited by her husband's prolonged +absence from home, burnt the manuscript of a symphony which he had just +finished. The circumstances under which Hedda burns Lovborg's manuscript +are, of course, entirely different and infinitely more dramatic; +but here we have merely another instance of the dramatisation or +"poetisation" of the raw material of life. Again, a still more painful +incident probably came to his knowledge about the same time. A beautiful +and very intellectual woman was married to a well-known man who had been +addicted to drink, but had entirely conquered the vice. One day a mad +whim seized her to put his self-mastery and her power over him to the +test. As it happened to be his birthday, she rolled into his study a +small keg of brandy, and then withdrew. She returned some time after +wards to find that he had broached the keg, and lay insensible on the +floor. In this anecdote we cannot but recognise the germ, not only of +Hedda's temptation of Lovborg, but of a large part of her character. + +"Thus," says Dr. Brandes, "out of small and scattered traits of reality +Ibsen fashioned his close-knit and profoundly thought-out works of art." + +For the character of Eilert Lovborg, again, Ibsen seem unquestionably +to have borrowed several traits from a definite original. A young Danish +man of letters, whom Dr. Brandes calls Holm, was an enthusiastic admirer +of Ibsen, and came to be on very friendly terms with him. One day Ibsen +was astonished to receive, in Munich, a parcel addressed from Berlin by +this young man, containing, without a word of explanation, a packet of +his (Ibsen's) letters, and a photograph which he had presented to Holm. +Ibsen brooded and brooded over the incident, and at last came to the +conclusion that the young man had intended to return her letters and +photograph to a young lady to whom he was known to be attached, and had +in a fit of aberration mixed up the two objects of his worship. Some +time after, Holm appeared at Ibsen's rooms. He talked quite rationally, +but professed to have no knowledge whatever of the letter-incident, +though he admitted the truth of Ibsen's conjecture that the "belle dame +sans merci" had demanded the return of her letters and portrait. Ibsen +was determined to get at the root of the mystery; and a little inquiry +into his young friend's habits revealed the fact that he broke his fast +on a bottle of port wine, consumed a bottle of Rhine wine at lunch, of +Burgundy at dinner, and finished off the evening with one or two more +bottles of port. Then he heard, too, how, in the course of a night's +carouse, Holm had lost the manuscript of a book; and in these traits he +saw the outline of the figure of Eilert Lovborg. + +Some time elapsed, and again Ibsen received a postal packet from Holm. +This one contained his will, in which Ibsen figured as his residuary +legatee. But many other legatees were mentioned in the instrument--all +of them ladies, such as Fraulein Alma Rothbart, of Bremen, and Fraulein +Elise Kraushaar, of Berlin. The bequests to these meritorious spinsters +were so generous that their sum considerably exceeded the amount of +the testator's property. Ibsen gently but firmly declined the proffered +inheritance; but Holm's will no doubt suggested to him the figure of +that red-haired "Mademoiselle Diana," who is heard of but not seen +in _Hedda Gabler_, and enabled him to add some further traits to the +portraiture of Lovborg. When the play appeared, Holm recognised +himself with glee in the character of the bibulous man of letters, +and thereafter adopted "Eilert Lovborg" as his pseudonym. I do not, +therefore, see why Dr. Brandes should suppress his real name; but I +willingly imitate him in erring on the side of discretion. The poor +fellow died several years ago. + +Some critics have been greatly troubled as to the precise meaning of +Hedda's fantastic vision of Lovborg "with vine-leaves in his hair." +Surely this is a very obvious image or symbol of the beautiful, the +ideal, aspect of bacchic elation and revelry. Antique art, or I am much +mistaken, shows us many figures of Dionysus himself and his followers +with vine-leaves entwined their hair. To Ibsen's mind, at any rate, the +image had long been familiar. In _Peer Gynt_ (Act iv. sc. 8), when Peer, +having carried off Anitra, finds himself in a particularly festive mood, +he cries: "Were there vine-leaves around, I would garland my brow." +Again, in _Emperor and Galilean_ (Pt. ii. Act 1) where Julian, in the +procession of Dionysus, impersonates the god himself, it is directed +that he shall wear a wreath of vine-leaves. Professor Dietrichson +relates that among the young artists whose society Ibsen frequented +during his first years in Rome, it was customary, at their little +festivals, for the revellers to deck themselves in this fashion. But the +image is so obvious that there is no need to trace it to any personal +experience. The attempt to place Hedda's vine-leaves among Ibsen's +obscurities is an example of the firm resolution not to understand which +animated the criticism of the 'nineties. + +Dr. Brandes has dealt very severely with the character of Eilert +Lovborg, alleging that we cannot believe in the genius attributed to +him. But where is he described as a genius? The poet represents him as a +very able student of sociology; but that is quite a different thing from +attributing to him such genius as must necessarily shine forth in every +word he utters. Dr. Brandes, indeed, declines to believe even in his +ability as a sociologist, on the ground that it is idle to write about +the social development of the future. "To our prosaic minds," he says, +"it may seem as if the most sensible utterance on the subject is that of +the fool of the play: 'The future! Good heavens, we know nothing of the +future.'" The best retort to this criticism is that which Eilert himself +makes: "There's a thing or two to be said about it all the same." The +intelligent forecasting of the future (as Mr. H. G. Wells has shown) +is not only clearly distinguishable from fantastic Utopianism, but is +indispensable to any large statesmanship or enlightened social activity. +With very real and very great respect for Dr. Brandes, I cannot think +that he has been fortunate in his treatment of Lovborg's character. +It has been represented as an absurdity that he would think of reading +abstracts from his new book to a man like Tesman, whom he despises. But +though Tesman is a ninny, he is, as Hedda says, a "specialist"--he is a +competent, plodding student of his subject. Lovborg may quite naturally +wish to see how his new method, or his excursion into a new field, +strikes the average scholar of the Tesman type. He is, in fact, "trying +it on the dog"--neither an unreasonable nor an unusual proceeding. There +is, no doubt, a certain improbability in the way in which Lovborg is +represented as carrying his manuscript around, and especially in Mrs. +Elvsted's production of his rough draft from her pocket; but these are +mechanical trifles, on which only a niggling criticism would dream of +laying stress. + +Of all Ibsen's works, _Hedda Gabler_ is the most detached, the most +objective--a character-study pure and simple. It is impossible--or so +it seems to me--to extract any sort of general idea from it. One cannot +even call it a satire, unless one is prepared to apply that term to the +record of a "case" in a work of criminology. Reverting to Dumas's dictum +that a play should contain "a painting, a judgment, an ideal," we may +say the _Hedda Gabler_ fulfils only the first of these requirements. The +poet does not even pass judgment on his heroine: he simply paints her +full-length portrait with scientific impassivity. But what a portrait! +How searching in insight, how brilliant in colouring, how rich in +detail! Grant Allen's remark, above quoted, was, of course, a whimsical +exaggeration; the Hedda type is not so common as all that, else the +world would quickly come to an end. But particular traits and tendencies +of the Hedda type are very common in modern life, and not only among +women. Hyperaesthesia lies at the root of her tragedy. With a keenly +critical, relentlessly solvent intelligence, she combines a morbid +shrinking from all the gross and prosaic detail of the sensual life. +She has nothing to take her out of herself--not a single intellectual +interest or moral enthusiasm. She cherishes, in a languid way, a petty +social ambition; and even that she finds obstructed and baffled. At the +same time she learns that another woman has had the courage to love and +venture all, where she, in her cowardice, only hankered and refrained. +Her malign egoism rises up uncontrolled, and calls to its aid her quick +and subtle intellect. She ruins the other woman's happiness, but in +doing so incurs a danger from which her sense of personal dignity +revolts. Life has no such charm for her that she cares to purchase it at +the cost of squalid humiliation and self-contempt. The good and the bad +in her alike impel her to have done with it all; and a pistol-shot +ends what is surely one of the most poignant character-tragedies in +literature. Ibsen's brain never worked at higher pressure than in the +conception and adjustment of those "crowded hours" in which Hedda, +tangled in the web of Will and Circumstance, struggles on till she is +too weary to struggle any more. + +It may not be superfluous to note that the "a" in "Gabler" should be +sounded long and full, like the "a" in "Garden"--NOT like the "a" in +"gable" or in "gabble." + + +W. A. + + +FOOTNOTES. + + (1)Letters 214, 216, 217, 219. + + (2)In the Ibsen volume of _Die Literatur_ (Berlin). + + (3)Dr. Julius Elias (_Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December 1906, p. 1462) + makes the curious assertion that the character of Thea Elvsted was + in part borrowed from this "Gossensasser Hildetypus." It is hard to + see how even Gibes' ingenuity could distil from the same flower two + such different essences as Thea and Hilda. + + (4)See article by Herman Bang in _Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December + 1906, p. 1495. + + (5)Dr. Brahm (_Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December 1906, P. 1422) says + that after the first performance of _Hedda Gabler_ in Berlin Ibsen + confided to him that the character had been suggested by a German + lady whom he met in Munich, and who did not shoot, but poisoned + herself. Nothing more seems to be known of this lady. See, too, + an article by Julius Elias in the same magazine, p. 1460. + + +Transcriber's Note: + +The inclusion or omission of commas between repeated words ("well, +well"; "there there", etc.) in this etext is reproduced faithfully from +both the 1914 and 1926 editions of _Hedda Gabler_, copyright 1907 by +Charles Scribner's Sons. Modern editions of the same translation use the +commas consistently throughout.--D.L. + + + + + +HEDDA GABLER. + +PLAY IN FOUR ACTS. + + + +CHARACTERS. + + + GEORGE TESMAN.* + HEDDA TESMAN, his wife. + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, his aunt. + MRS. ELVSTED. + JUDGE** BRACK. + EILERT LOVBORG. + BERTA, servant at the Tesmans. + + *Tesman, whose Christian name in the original is "Jorgen," is + described as "stipendiat i kulturhistorie"--that is to say, the + holder of a scholarship for purposes of research into the History + of Civilisation. + + **In the original "Assessor." + + + The scene of the action is Tesman's villa, in the west end + of Christiania. + + + + +ACT FIRST. + + + A spacious, handsome, and tastefully furnished drawing room, + decorated in dark colours. In the back, a wide doorway with + curtains drawn back, leading into a smaller room decorated + in the same style as the drawing-room. In the right-hand + wall of the front room, a folding door leading out to the + hall. In the opposite wall, on the left, a glass door, also + with curtains drawn back. Through the panes can be seen + part of a verandah outside, and trees covered with autumn + foliage. An oval table, with a cover on it, and surrounded + by chairs, stands well forward. In front, by the wall on + the right, a wide stove of dark porcelain, a high-backed + arm-chair, a cushioned foot-rest, and two footstools. A + settee, with a small round table in front of it, fills the + upper right-hand corner. In front, on the left, a little + way from the wall, a sofa. Further back than the glass + door, a piano. On either side of the doorway at the back + a whatnot with terra-cotta and majolica ornaments.-- + Against the back wall of the inner room a sofa, with a + table, and one or two chairs. Over the sofa hangs the + portrait of a handsome elderly man in a General's uniform. + Over the table a hanging lamp, with an opal glass shade.--A + number of bouquets are arranged about the drawing-room, in + vases and glasses. Others lie upon the tables. The floors + in both rooms are covered with thick carpets.--Morning light. + The sun shines in through the glass door. + + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, with her bonnet on a carrying a parasol, + comes in from the hall, followed by BERTA, who carries a + bouquet wrapped in paper. MISS TESMAN is a comely and pleasant- + looking lady of about sixty-five. She is nicely but simply + dressed in a grey walking-costume. BERTA is a middle-aged + woman of plain and rather countrified appearance. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Stops close to the door, listens, and says softly:] Upon my word, I +don't believe they are stirring yet! + + +BERTA. + +[Also softly.] I told you so, Miss. Remember how late the steamboat got +in last night. And then, when they got home!--good Lord, what a lot the +young mistress had to unpack before she could get to bed. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well--let them have their sleep out. But let us see that they get a +good breath of the fresh morning air when they do appear. + + [She goes to the glass door and throws it open. + + +BERTA. + +[Beside the table, at a loss what to do with the bouquet in her hand.] +I declare there isn't a bit of room left. I think I'll put it down here, +Miss. [She places it on the piano. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +So you've got a new mistress now, my dear Berta. Heaven knows it was a +wrench to me to part with you. + + +BERTA. + +[On the point of weeping.] And do you think it wasn't hard for me, too, +Miss? After all the blessed years I've been with you and Miss Rina.(1) + + +MISS TESMAN. + +We must make the best of it, Berta. There was nothing else to be done. +George can't do without you, you see-he absolutely can't. He has had you +to look after him ever since he was a little boy. + + +BERTA. + +Ah but, Miss Julia, I can't help thinking of Miss Rina lying helpless +at home there, poor thing. And with only that new girl too! She'll never +learn to take proper care of an invalid. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, I shall manage to train her. And of course, you know, I shall take +most of it upon myself. You needn't be uneasy about my poor sister, my +dear Berta. + + +BERTA. + +Well, but there's another thing, Miss. I'm so mortally afraid I shan't +be able to suit the young mistress. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh well--just at first there may be one or two things-- + + +BERTA. + +Most like she'll be terrible grand in her ways. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well, you can't wonder at that--General Gabler's daughter! Think of +the sort of life she was accustomed to in her father's time. Don't you +remember how we used to see her riding down the road along with the +General? In that long black habit--and with feathers in her hat? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, indeed--I remember well enough!--But, good Lord, I should never +have dreamt in those days that she and Master George would make a match +of it. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Nor I.--But by-the-bye, Berta--while I think of it: in future you +mustn't say Master George. You must say Dr. Tesman. + + +BERTA. + +Yes, the young mistress spoke of that too--last night--the moment they +set foot in the house. Is it true then, Miss? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, indeed it is. Only think, Berta--some foreign university has made +him a doctor--while he has been abroad, you understand. I hadn't heard a +word about it, until he told me himself upon the pier. + + +BERTA. + +Well well, he's clever enough for anything, he is. But I didn't think +he'd have gone in for doctoring people. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No no, it's not that sort of doctor he is. [Nods significantly.] But +let me tell you, we may have to call him something still grander before +long. + + +BERTA. + +You don't say so! What can that be, Miss? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Smiling.] H'm--wouldn't you like to know! [With emotion.] Ah, dear +dear--if my poor brother could only look up from his grave now, and +see what his little boy has grown into! [Looks around.] But bless me, +Berta--why have you done this? Taken the chintz covers off all the +furniture. + + +BERTA. + +The mistress told me to. She can't abide covers on the chairs, she says. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Are they going to make this their everyday sitting-room then? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, that's what I understood--from the mistress. Master George--the +doctor--he said nothing. + + + GEORGE TESMAN comes from the right into the inner room, + humming to himself, and carrying an unstrapped empty + portmanteau. He is a middle-sized, young-looking man of + thirty-three, rather stout, with a round, open, cheerful + face, fair hair and beard. He wears spectacles, and is + somewhat carelessly dressed in comfortable indoor clothes. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Good morning, good morning, George. + + +TESMAN. + +[In the doorway between the rooms.] Aunt Julia! Dear Aunt Julia! [Goes +up to her and shakes hands warmly.] Come all this way--so early! Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why, of course I had to come and see how you were getting on. + + +TESMAN. + +In spite of your having had no proper night's rest? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, that makes no difference to me. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, I suppose you got home all right from the pier? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, quite safely, thank goodness. Judge Brack was good enough to see me +right to my door. + + +TESMAN. + +We were so sorry we couldn't give you a seat in the carriage. But you +saw what a pile of boxes Hedda had to bring with her. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, she had certainly plenty of boxes. + + +BERTA. + +[To TESMAN.] Shall I go in and see if there's anything I can do for the +mistress? + + +TESMAN. + +No thank you, Berta--you needn't. She said she would ring if she wanted +anything. + + +BERTA. + +[Going towards the right.] Very well. + + +TESMAN. + +But look here--take this portmanteau with you. + + +BERTA. + +[Taking it.] I'll put it in the attic. + + [She goes out by the hall door. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy, Auntie--I had the whole of that portmanteau chock full of copies +of the documents. You wouldn't believe how much I have picked up from +all the archives I have been examining--curious old details that no one +has had any idea of-- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, you don't seem to have wasted your time on your wedding trip, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +No, that I haven't. But do take off your bonnet, Auntie. Look here! Let +me untie the strings--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[While he does so.] Well well--this is just as if you were still at home +with us. + + +TESMAN. + +[With the bonnet in his hand, looks at it from all sides.] Why, what a +gorgeous bonnet you've been investing in! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I bought it on Hedda's account. + + +TESMAN. + +On Hedda's account? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, so that Hedda needn't be ashamed of me if we happened to go out +together. + + +TESMAN. + +[Patting her cheek.] You always think of everything, Aunt Julia. [Lays +the bonnet on a chair beside the table.] And now, look here--suppose we +sit comfortably on the sofa and have a little chat, till Hedda comes. + + [They seat themselves. She places her parasol in the corner + of the sofa. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Takes both his hands and looks at him.] What a delight it is to have +you again, as large as life, before my very eyes, George! My George--my +poor brother's own boy! + + +TESMAN. + +And it's a delight for me, too, to see you again, Aunt Julia! You, who +have been father and mother in one to me. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, I know you will always keep a place in your heart for your old +aunts. + + +TESMAN. + +And what about Aunt Rina? No improvement--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, no--we can scarcely look for any improvement in her case, poor +thing. There she lies, helpless, as she has lain for all these years. +But heaven grant I may not lose her yet awhile! For if I did, I don't +know what I should make of my life, George--especially now that I +haven't you to look after any more. + + +TESMAN. + +[Patting her back.] There there there--! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Suddenly changing her tone.] And to think that here are you a married +man, George!--And that you should be the one to carry off Hedda Gabler +--the beautiful Hedda Gabler! Only think of it--she, that was so beset +with admirers! + + +TESMAN. + +[Hums a little and smiles complacently.] Yes, I fancy I have several +good friends about town who would like to stand in my shoes--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And then this fine long wedding-tour you have had! More than five-- +nearly six months-- + + +TESMAN. + +Well, for me it has been a sort of tour of research as well. I have had +to do so much grubbing among old records--and to read no end of books +too, Auntie. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, I suppose so. [More confidentially, and lowering her voice a +little.] But listen now, George,--have you nothing--nothing special to +tell me? + + +TESMAN. + +As to our journey? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +No, I don't know of anything except what I have told you in my letters. +I had a doctor's degree conferred on me--but that I told you yesterday. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, you did. But what I mean is--haven't you any--any-- +expectations--? + + +TESMAN. + +Expectations? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why you know, George--I'm your old auntie! + + +TESMAN. + +Why, of course I have expectations. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Ah! + + +TESMAN. + +I have every expectation of being a professor one of these days. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, a professor-- + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed, I may say I am certain of it. But my dear Auntie--you know all +about that already! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Laughing to herself.] Yes, of course I do. You are quite right there. +[Changing the subject.] But we were talking about your journey. It must +have cost a great deal of money, George? + + +TESMAN. + +Well, you see--my handsome travelling-scholarship went a good way. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +But I can't understand how you can have made it go far enough for two. + + +TESMAN. + +No, that's not easy to understand--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And especially travelling with a lady--they tell me that makes it ever +so much more expensive. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, of course--it makes it a little more expensive. But Hedda had to +have this trip, Auntie! She really had to. Nothing else would have done. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No no, I suppose not. A wedding-tour seems to be quite indispensable +nowadays.--But tell me now--have you gone thoroughly over the house yet? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, you may be sure I have. I have been afoot ever since daylight. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And what do you think of it all? + + +TESMAN. + +I'm delighted! Quite delighted! Only I can't think what we are to do +with the two empty rooms between this inner parlour and Hedda's bedroom. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Oh my dear George, I daresay you may find some use for +them--in the course of time. + + +TESMAN. + +Why of course you are quite right, Aunt Julia! You mean as my library +increases--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, quite so, my dear boy. It was your library I was thinking of. + + +TESMAN. + +I am specially pleased on Hedda's account. Often and often, before we +were engaged, she said that she would never care to live anywhere but in +Secretary Falk's villa.(2) + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, it was lucky that this very house should come into the market, just +after you had started. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, Aunt Julia, the luck was on our side, wasn't it--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +But the expense, my dear George! You will find it very expensive, all +this. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks at her, a little cast down.] Yes, I suppose I shall, Aunt! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, frightfully! + + +TESMAN. + +How much do you think? In round numbers?--Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, I can't even guess until all the accounts come in. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, fortunately, Judge Brack has secured the most favourable terms for +me, so he said in a letter to Hedda. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, don't be uneasy, my dear boy.--Besides, I have given security for +the furniture and all the carpets. + + +TESMAN. + +Security? You? My dear Aunt Julia--what sort of security could you give? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I have given a mortgage on our annuity. + + +TESMAN. + +[Jumps up.] What! On your--and Aunt Rina's annuity! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, I knew of no other plan, you see. + + +TESMAN. + +[Placing himself before her.] Have you gone out of your senses, Auntie? +Your annuity--it's all that you and Aunt Rina have to live upon. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well--don't get so excited about it. It's only a matter of form you +know--Judge Brack assured me of that. It was he that was kind enough to +arrange the whole affair for me. A mere matter of form, he said. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that may be all very well. But nevertheless-- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +You will have your own salary to depend upon now. And, good heavens, +even if we did have to pay up a little--! To eke things out a bit at +the start--! Why, it would be nothing but a pleasure to us. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh Auntie--will you never be tired of making sacrifices for me! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Rises and lays her hand on his shoulders.] Have I any other happiness +in this world except to smooth your way for you, my dear boy. You, who +have had neither father nor mother to depend on. And now we have reached +the goal, George! Things have looked black enough for us, sometimes; +but, thank heaven, now you have nothing to fear. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, it is really marvellous how every thing has turned out for the +best. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And the people who opposed you--who wanted to bar the way for you-- +now you have them at your feet. They have fallen, George. Your most +dangerous rival--his fall was the worst.--And now he has to lie on the +bed he has made for himself--poor misguided creature. + + +TESMAN. + +Have you heard anything of Eilert? Since I went away, I mean. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Only that he is said to have published a new book. + + +TESMAN. + +What! Eilert Lovborg! Recently--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, so they say. Heaven knows whether it can be worth anything! Ah, +when your new book appears--that will be another story, George! What is +it to be about? + + +TESMAN. + +It will deal with the domestic industries of Brabant during the Middle +Ages. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Fancy--to be able to write on such a subject as that! + + +TESMAN. + +However, it may be some time before the book is ready. I have all these +collections to arrange first, you see. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, collecting and arranging--no one can beat you at that. There you +are my poor brother's own son. + + +TESMAN. + +I am looking forward eagerly to setting to work at it; especially now +that I have my own delightful home to work in. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And, most of all, now that you have got the wife of your heart, my dear +George. + + +TESMAN. + +[Embracing her.] Oh yes, yes, Aunt Julia! Hedda--she is the best part of +it all! I believe I hear her coming--eh? + + + HEDDA enters from the left through the inner room. Her face + and figure show refinement and distinction. Her complexion + is pale and opaque. Her steel-grey eyes express a cold, + unruffled repose. Her hair is of an agreeable brown, but + not particularly abundant. She is dressed in a tasteful, + somewhat loose-fitting morning gown. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Going to meet HEDDA.] Good morning, my dear Hedda! Good morning, and a +hearty welcome! + + +HEDDA. + +[Holds out her hand.] Good morning, dear Miss Tesman! So early a call! +That is kind of you. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[With some embarrassment.] Well--has the bride slept well in her new +home? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, thanks. Passably. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Passably! Come, that's good, Hedda! You were sleeping like a +stone when I got up. + + +HEDDA. + +Fortunately. Of course one has always to accustom one's self to new +surroundings, Miss Tesman--little by little. [Looking towards the left.] +Oh, there the servant has gone and opened the veranda door, and let in a +whole flood of sunshine. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Going towards the door.] Well, then we will shut it. + + +HEDDA. + +No no, not that! Tesman, please draw the curtains. That will give a +softer light. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the door.] All right--all right.--There now, Hedda, now you have +both shade and fresh air. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, fresh air we certainly must have, with all these stacks of +flowers--. But--won't you sit down, Miss Tesman? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No, thank you. Now that I have seen that everything is all right +here--thank heaven!--I must be getting home again. My sister is lying +longing for me, poor thing. + + +TESMAN. + +Give her my very best love, Auntie; and say I shall look in and see her +later in the day. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, I'll be sure to tell her. But by-the-bye, George--[Feeling +in her dress pocket]--I had almost forgotten--I have something for you +here. + + +TESMAN. + +What is it, Auntie? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Produces a flat parcel wrapped in newspaper and hands it to him.] Look +here, my dear boy. + + +TESMAN. + +[Opening the parcel.] Well, I declare!--Have you really saved +them for me, Aunt Julia! Hedda! isn't this touching--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Beside the whatnot on the right.] Well, what is it? + + +TESMAN. + +My old morning-shoes! My slippers. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed. I remember you often spoke of them while we were abroad. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I missed them terribly. [Goes up to her.] Now you shall see them, +Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Going towards the stove.] Thanks, I really don't care about it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Following her.] Only think--ill as she was, Aunt Rina embroidered these +for me. Oh you can't think how many associations cling to them. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the table.] Scarcely for me. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Of course not for Hedda, George. + +TESMAN. + +Well, but now that she belongs to the family, I thought-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Interrupting.] We shall never get on with this servant, Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Not get on with Berta? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, dear, what puts that in your head? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Pointing.] Look there! She has left her old bonnet lying about on a +chair. + +TESMAN. + +[In consternation, drops the slippers on the floor.] Why, Hedda-- + + +HEDDA. + +Just fancy, if any one should come in and see it! + + +TESMAN. + +But Hedda--that's Aunt Julia's bonnet. + + +HEDDA. + +Is it! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Taking up the bonnet.] Yes, indeed it's mine. And, what's more, it's +not old, Madam Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I really did not look closely at it, Miss Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Trying on the bonnet.] Let me tell you it's the first time I have worn +it--the very first time. + + +TESMAN. + +And a very nice bonnet it is too--quite a beauty! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, it's no such great things, George. [Looks around her.] My +parasol--? Ah, here. [Takes it.] For this is mine too-- [mutters] --not +Berta's. + + +TESMAN. + +A new bonnet and a new parasol! Only think, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Very handsome indeed. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, isn't it? Eh? But Auntie, take a good look at Hedda before you go! +See how handsome she is! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, my dear boy, there's nothing new in that. Hedda was always lovely. + + [She nods and goes toward the right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Following.] Yes, but have you noticed what splendid condition she is +in? How she has filled out on the journey? + + +HEDDA. + +[Crossing the room.] Oh, do be quiet--! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Who has stopped and turned.] Filled out? + + +TESMAN. + +Of course you don't notice it so much now that she has that dress on. +But I, who can see-- + + +HEDDA. + +[At the glass door, impatiently.] Oh, you can't see anything. + + +TESMAN. + +It must be the mountain air in the Tyrol-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly, interrupting.] I am exactly as I was when I started. + + +TESMAN. + +So you insist; but I'm quite certain you are not. Don't you agree with +me, Auntie? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Who has been gazing at her with folded hands.] Hedda is lovely-- +lovely--lovely. [Goes up to her, takes her head between both hands, +draws it downwards, and kisses her hair.] God bless and preserve Hedda +Tesman--for George's sake. + + +HEDDA. + +[Gently freeing herself.] Oh--! Let me go. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[In quiet emotion.] I shall not let a day pass without coming to see +you. + + +TESMAN. + +No you won't, will you, Auntie? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Good-bye--good-bye! + + [She goes out by the hall door. TESMAN accompanies her. The + door remains half open. TESMAN can be heard repeating his + message to Aunt Rina and his thanks for the slippers. + + [In the meantime, HEDDA walks about the room, raising her arms + and clenching her hands as if in desperation. Then she flings + back the curtains from the glass door, and stands there looking + out. + + [Presently, TESMAN returns and closes the door behind him. + + +TESMAN. + +[Picks up the slippers from the floor.] What are you looking at, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Once more calm and mistress of herself.] I am only looking at the +leaves. They are so yellow--so withered. + + +TESMAN. + +[Wraps up the slippers and lays them on the table.] Well, you see, we +are well into September now. + + +HEDDA. + +[Again restless.] Yes, to think of it!--already in--in September. + + +TESMAN. + +Don't you think Aunt Julia's manner was strange, dear? Almost solemn? +Can you imagine what was the matter with her? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I scarcely know her, you see. Is she not often like that? + + +TESMAN. + +No, not as she was to-day. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaving the glass door.] Do you think she was annoyed about the bonnet? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, scarcely at all. Perhaps a little, just at the moment-- + + +HEDDA. + +But what an idea, to pitch her bonnet about in the drawing-room! No one +does that sort of thing. + + +TESMAN. + +Well you may be sure Aunt Julia won't do it again. + + +HEDDA. + +In any case, I shall manage to make my peace with her. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, my dear, good Hedda, if you only would. + + +HEDDA. + +When you call this afternoon, you might invite her to spend the evening +here. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that I will. And there's one thing more you could do that would +delight her heart. + + +HEDDA. + +What is it? + + +TESMAN. + +If you could only prevail on yourself to say _du_(3) to her. For my +sake, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no, Tesman--you really mustn't ask that of me. I have told you so +already. I shall try to call her "Aunt"; and you must be satisfied with +that. + + +TESMAN. + +Well well. Only I think now that you belong to the family, you-- + + +HEDDA. + +H'm--I can't in the least see why-- + + [She goes up towards the middle doorway. + + +TESMAN. + +[After a pause.] Is there anything the matter with you, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I'm only looking at my old piano. It doesn't go at all well with all the +other things. + + +TESMAN. + +The first time I draw my salary, we'll see about exchanging it. + + +HEDDA. + +No, no--no exchanging. I don't want to part with it. Suppose we put it +there in the inner room, and then get another here in its place. When +it's convenient, I mean. + + +TESMAN. + +[A little taken aback.] Yes--of course we could do that. + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes up the bouquet from the piano.] These flowers were not here last +night when we arrived. + + +TESMAN. + +Aunt Julia must have brought them for you. + + +HEDDA. + +[Examining the bouquet.] A visiting-card. [Takes it out and reads:] +"Shall return later in the day." Can you guess whose card it is? + + +TESMAN. + +No. Whose? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +The name is "Mrs. Elvsted." + + +TESMAN. + +Is it really? Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Miss Rysing that was. + + +HEDDA. + +Exactly. The girl with the irritating hair, that she was always showing +off. An old flame of yours I've been told. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Oh, that didn't last long; and it was before I met you, +Hedda. But fancy her being in town! + + +HEDDA. + +It's odd that she should call upon us. I have scarcely seen her since we +left school. + + +TESMAN. + +I haven't see her either for--heaven knows how long. I wonder how she +can endure to live in such an out-of-the way hole--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[After a moment's thought, says suddenly.] Tell me, Tesman--isn't it +somewhere near there that he--that--Eilert Lovborg is living? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, he is somewhere in that part of the country. + + + BERTA enters by the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +That lady, ma'am, that brought some flowers a little while ago, is here +again. [Pointing.] The flowers you have in your hand, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, is she? Well, please show her in. + + + BERTA opens the door for MRS. ELVSTED, and goes out herself. + --MRS. ELVSTED is a woman of fragile figure, with pretty, + soft features. Her eyes are light blue, large, round, and + somewhat prominent, with a startled, inquiring expression. + Her hair is remarkably light, almost flaxen, and unusually + abundant and wavy. She is a couple of years younger than + HEDDA. She wears a dark visiting dress, tasteful, but not + quite in the latest fashion. + + +HEDDA. + +[Receives her warmly.] How do you do, my dear Mrs. Elvsted? It's +delightful to see you again. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Nervously, struggling for self-control.] Yes, it's a very long time +since we met. + + +TESMAN. + +[Gives her his hand.] And we too--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks for your lovely flowers-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, not at all--. I would have come straight here yesterday afternoon; +but I heard that you were away-- + + +TESMAN. + +Have you just come to town? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I arrived yesterday, about midday. Oh, I was quite in despair when I +heard that you were not at home. + + +HEDDA. + +In despair! How so? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, my dear Mrs. Rysing--I mean Mrs. Elvsted-- + + +HEDDA. + +I hope that you are not in any trouble? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I am. And I don't know another living creature here that I can turn +to. + + +HEDDA. + +[Laying the bouquet on the table.] Come--let us sit here on the sofa-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I am too restless to sit down. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh no, you're not. Come here. + + [She draws MRS. ELVSTED down upon the sofa and sits at her side. + + +TESMAN. + +Well? What is it, Mrs. Elvsted--? + + +HEDDA. + +Has anything particular happened to you at home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes--and no. Oh--I am so anxious you should not misunderstand me-- + + +HEDDA. + +Then your best plan is to tell us the whole story, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +TESMAN. + +I suppose that's what you have come for--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes--of course it is. Well then, I must tell you--if you don't +already know--that Eilert Lovborg is in town, too. + + +HEDDA. + +Lovborg--! + + +TESMAN. + +What! Has Eilert Lovborg come back? Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Well well--I hear it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has been here a week already. Just fancy--a whole week! In this +terrible town, alone! With so many temptations on all sides. + + +HEDDA. + +But, my dear Mrs. Elvsted--how does he concern you so much? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at her with a startled air, and says rapidly.] He was the +children's tutor. + + +HEDDA. + +Your children's? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My husband's. I have none. + + +HEDDA. + +Your step-children's, then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +[Somewhat hesitatingly.] Then was he--I don't know how to express +it--was he--regular enough in his habits to be fit for the post? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +For the last two years his conduct has been irreproachable. + + +TESMAN. + +Has it indeed? Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +I hear it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Perfectly irreproachable, I assure you! In every respect. But all the +same--now that I know he is here--in this great town--and with a large +sum of money in his hands--I can't help being in mortal fear for him. + + +TESMAN. + +Why did he not remain where he was? With you and your husband? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +After his book was published he was too restless and unsettled to remain +with us. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, by-the-bye, Aunt Julia told me he had published a new book. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, a big book, dealing with the march of civilisation--in broad +outline, as it were. It came out about a fortnight ago. And since it has +sold so well, and been so much read--and made such a sensation-- + + +TESMAN. + +Has it indeed? It must be something he has had lying by since his better +days. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Long ago, you mean? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he has written it all since he has been with us--within the last +year. + + +TESMAN. + +Isn't that good news, Hedda? Think of that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ah yes, if only it would last! + + +HEDDA. + +Have you seen him here in town? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, not yet. I have had the greatest difficulty in finding out his +address. But this morning I discovered it at last. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks searchingly at her.] Do you know, it seems to me a little odd of +your husband--h'm-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Starting nervously.] Of my husband! What? + + +HEDDA. + +That he should send you to town on such an errand--that he does not come +himself and look after his friend. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--my husband has no time. And besides, I--I had some shopping +to do. + + +HEDDA. + +[With a slight smile.] Ah, that is a different matter. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rising quickly and uneasily.] And now I beg and implore you, Mr. +Tesman--receive Eilert Lovborg kindly if he comes to you! And that he +is sure to do. You see you were such great friends in the old days. +And then you are interested in the same studies--the same branch of +science--so far as I can understand. + + +TESMAN. + +We used to be at any rate. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +That is why I beg so earnestly that you--you too--will keep a sharp eye +upon him. Oh, you will promise me that, Mr. Tesman--won't you? + + +TESMAN. + +With the greatest of pleasure, Mrs. Rysing-- + + +HEDDA. + +Elvsted. + + +TESMAN. + +I assure you I shall do all I possibly can for Eilert. You may rely upon +me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how very, very kind of you! [Presses his hands.] Thanks, thanks, +thanks! [Frightened.] You see, my husband is so very fond of him! + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising.] You ought to write to him, Tesman. Perhaps he may not care to +come to you of his own accord. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, perhaps it would be the right thing to do, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +And the sooner the better. Why not at once? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Imploringly.] Oh, if you only would! + + +TESMAN. + +I'll write this moment. Have you his address, Mrs.--Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. [Takes a slip of paper from her pocket, and hands it to him.] Here +it is. + + +TESMAN. + +Good, good. Then I'll go in-- [Looks about him.] By-the-bye,--my +slippers? Oh, here. [Takes the packet and is about to go. + + +HEDDA. + +Be sure you write him a cordial, friendly letter. And a good long one +too. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I will. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But please, please don't say a word to show that I have suggested it. + + +TESMAN. + +No, how could you think I would? Eh? + + [He goes out to the right, through the inner room. + + +HEDDA. + +[Goes up to MRS. ELVSTED, smiles, and says in a low voice.] There! We +have killed two birds with one stone. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Could you not see that I wanted him to go? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, to write the letter-- + + +HEDDA. + +And that I might speak to you alone. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Confused.] About the same thing? + + +HEDDA. + +Precisely. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Apprehensively.] But there is nothing more, Mrs. Tesman! Absolutely +nothing! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, but there is. There is a great deal more--I can see that. Sit +here--and we'll have a cosy, confidential chat. + + [She forces MRS. ELVSTED to sit in the easy-chair beside the + stove, and seats herself on one of the footstools. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Anxiously, looking at her watch.] But, my dear Mrs. Tesman--I was +really on the point of going. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, you can't be in such a hurry.--Well? Now tell me something about +your life at home. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, that is just what I care least to speak about. + + +HEDDA. + +But to me, dear--? Why, weren't we schoolfellows? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but you were in the class above me. Oh, how dreadfully afraid of +you I was then! + + +HEDDA. + +Afraid of me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, dreadfully. For when we met on the stairs you used always to pull +my hair. + + +HEDDA. + +Did I, really? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, and once you said you would burn it off my head. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh that was all nonsense, of course. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but I was so silly in those days.--And since then, too--we have +drifted so far--far apart from each other. Our circles have been so +entirely different. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, we must try to drift together again. Now listen. At school +we said _du_(4) to each other; and we called each other by our Christian +names-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, I am sure you must be mistaken. + + +HEDDA. + +No, not at all! I can remember quite distinctly. So now we are going to +renew our old friendship. [Draws the footstool closer to MRS. ELVSTED.] +There now! [Kisses her cheek.] You must say _du_ to me and call me +Hedda. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Presses and pats her hands.] Oh, how good and kind you are! I am not +used to such kindness. + + +HEDDA. + +There, there, there! And I shall say _du_ to you, as in the old days, +and call you my dear Thora. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My name is Thea.(5) + + +HEDDA. + +Why, of course! I meant Thea. [Looks at her compassionately.] So you are +not accustomed to goodness and kindness, Thea? Not in your own home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if I only had a home! But I haven't any; I have never had a home. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her for a moment.] I almost suspected as much. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Gazing helplessly before her.] Yes--yes--yes. + + +HEDDA. + +I don't quite remember--was it not as housekeeper that you first went to +Mr. Elvsted's? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I really went as governess. But his wife--his late wife--was an +invalid,--and rarely left her room. So I had to look after the +housekeeping as well. + + +HEDDA. + +And then--at last--you became mistress of the house. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Sadly.] Yes, I did. + + +HEDDA. + +Let me see--about how long ago was that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My marriage? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Five years ago. + + +HEDDA. + +To be sure; it must be that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh those five years--! Or at all events the last two or three of them! +Oh, if you(6) could only imagine-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Giving her a little slap on the hand.] De? Fie, Thea! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, I will try--. Well, if--you could only imagine and +understand-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Lightly.] Eilert Lovborg has been in your neighbourhood about three +years, hasn't he? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at her doubtfully.] Eilert Lovborg? Yes--he has. + + +HEDDA. + +Had you known him before, in town here? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Scarcely at all. I mean--I knew him by name of course. + + +HEDDA. + +But you saw a good deal of him in the country? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, he came to us every day. You see, he gave the children lessons; for +in the long run I couldn't manage it all myself. + + +HEDDA. + +No, that's clear.--And your husband--? I suppose he is often away from +home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. Being sheriff, you know, he has to travel about a good deal in his +district. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaning against the arm of the chair.] Thea--my poor, sweet Thea--now +you must tell me everything--exactly as it stands. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, then you must question me. + + +HEDDA. + +What sort of a man is your husband, Thea? I mean--you know--in everyday +life. Is he kind to you? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Evasively.] I am sure he means well in everything. + + +HEDDA. + +I should think he must be altogether too old for you. There is at least +twenty years' difference between you, is there not? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Irritably.] Yes, that is true, too. Everything about him is repellent +to me! We have not a thought in common. We have no single point of +sympathy--he and I. + + +HEDDA. + +But is he not fond of you all the same? In his own way? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh I really don't know. I think he regards me simply as a useful +property. And then it doesn't cost much to keep me. I am not expensive. + + +HEDDA. + +That is stupid of you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shakes her head.] It cannot be otherwise--not with him. I don't think +he really cares for any one but himself--and perhaps a little for the +children. + + +HEDDA. + +And for Eilert Lovborg, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looking at her.] For Eilert Lovborg? What puts that into your head? + + +HEDDA. + +Well, my dear--I should say, when he sends you after him all the way +to town-- [Smiling almost imperceptibly.] And besides, you said so +yourself, to Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With a little nervous twitch.] Did I? Yes, I suppose I did. +[Vehemently, but not loudly.] No--I may just as well make a clean breast +of it at once! For it must all come out in any case. + + +HEDDA. + +Why, my dear Thea--? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, to make a long story short: My husband did not know that I was +coming. + + +HEDDA. + +What! Your husband didn't know it! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, of course not. For that matter, he was away from home himself-- +he was travelling. Oh, I could bear it no longer, Hedda! I couldn't +indeed--so utterly alone as I should have been in future. + + +HEDDA. + +Well? And then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +So I put together some of my things--what I needed most--as quietly as +possible. And then I left the house. + + +HEDDA. + +Without a word? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes--and took the train to town. + + +HEDDA. + +Why, my dear, good Thea--to think of you daring to do it! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rises and moves about the room.] What else could I possibly do? + + +HEDDA. + +But what do you think your husband will say when you go home again? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[At the table, looks at her.] Back to him? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I shall never go back to him again. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising and going towards her.] Then you have left your home--for good +and all? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. There was nothing else to be done. + + +HEDDA. + +But then--to take flight so openly. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, it's impossible to keep things of that sort secret. + + +HEDDA. + +But what do you think people will say of you, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +They may say what they like, for aught _I_ care. [Seats herself wearily +and sadly on the sofa.] I have done nothing but what I had to do. + + +HEDDA. + +[After a short silence.] And what are your plans now? What do you think +of doing. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I don't know yet. I only know this, that I must live here, where Eilert +Lovborg is--if I am to live at all. + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes a chair from the table, seats herself beside her, and strokes +her hands.] My dear Thea--how did this--this friendship--between you and +Eilert Lovborg come about? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh it grew up gradually. I gained a sort of influence over him. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He gave up his old habits. Not because I asked him to, for I never dared +do that. But of course he saw how repulsive they were to me; and so he +dropped them. + + +HEDDA. + +[Concealing an involuntary smile of scorn.] Then you have reclaimed +him--as the saying goes--my little Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +So he says himself, at any rate. And he, on his side, has made a real +human being of me--taught me to think, and to understand so many things. + + +HEDDA. + +Did he give you lessons too, then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, not exactly lessons. But he talked to me--talked about such an +infinity of things. And then came the lovely, happy time when I began to +share in his work--when he allowed me to help him! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh he did, did he? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes! He never wrote anything without my assistance. + + +HEDDA. + +You were two good comrades, in fact? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Eagerly.] Comrades! Yes, fancy, Hedda--that is the very word he +used!--Oh, I ought to feel perfectly happy; and yet I cannot; for I +don't know how long it will last. + + +HEDDA. + +Are you no surer of him than that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Gloomily.] A woman's shadow stands between Eilert Lovborg and me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her anxiously.] Who can that be? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I don't know. Some one he knew in his--in his past. Some one he has +never been able wholly to forget. + + +HEDDA. + +What has he told you--about this? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has only once--quite vaguely--alluded to it. + + +HEDDA. + +Well! And what did he say? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He said that when they parted, she threatened to shoot him with a +pistol. + + +HEDDA. + +[With cold composure.] Oh nonsense! No one does that sort of thing here. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No. And that is why I think it must have been that red-haired +singing-woman whom he once-- + +HEDDA. + +Yes, very likely. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +For I remember they used to say of her that she carried loaded firearms. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh--then of course it must have been she. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] And now just fancy, Hedda--I hear that this +singing-woman--that she is in town again! Oh, I don't know what to do-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing towards the inner room.] Hush! Here comes Tesman. [Rises and +whispers.] Thea--all this must remain between you and me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Springing up.] Oh yes--yes! For heaven's sake--! + + + GEORGE TESMAN, with a letter in his hand, comes from the right + through the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +There now--the epistle is finished. + + +HEDDA. + +That's right. And now Mrs. Elvsted is just going. Wait a moment--I'll +go with you to the garden gate. + + +TESMAN. + +Do you think Berta could post the letter, Hedda dear? + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes it.] I will tell her to. + + + BERTA enters from the hall. + + +BERTA. + +Judge Brack wishes to know if Mrs. Tesman will receive him. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, ask Judge Brack to come in. And look here--put this letter in the +post. + + +BERTA. [Taking the letter.] Yes, ma'am. + + [She opens the door for JUDGE BRACK and goes out herself. Brack + is a man of forty-five; thick set, but well-built and elastic + in his movements. His face is roundish with an aristocratic + profile. His hair is short, still almost black, and carefully + dressed. His eyebrows thick. His moustaches are also thick, + with short-cut ends. He wears a well-cut walking-suit, a + little too youthful for his age. He uses an eye-glass, which + he now and then lets drop. + + +JUDGE BRACK. + +[With his hat in his hand, bowing.] May one venture to call so early in +the day? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course one may. + + +TESMAN. + +[Presses his hand.] You are welcome at any time. [Introducing him.] +Judge Brack--Miss Rysing-- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh--! + + +BRACK. + +[Bowing.] Ah--delighted-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him and laughs.] It's nice to have a look at you by daylight, +Judge! + + +BRACK. + +So you find me--altered? + + +HEDDA. + +A little younger, I think. + + +BRACK. + +Thank you so much. + + +TESMAN. + +But what do you think of Hedda--eh? Doesn't she look flourishing? She +has actually-- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, do leave me alone. You haven't thanked Judge Brack for all the +trouble he has taken-- + + +BRACK. + +Oh, nonsense--it was a pleasure to me-- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, you are a friend indeed. But here stands Thea all impatience to be +off--so _au revoir_ Judge. I shall be back again presently. + + [Mutual salutations. MRS. ELVSTED and HEDDA go out by the hall + door. + + +BRACK. + +Well,--is your wife tolerably satisfied-- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, we can't thank you sufficiently. Of course she talks of a little +re-arrangement here and there; and one or two things are still wanting. +We shall have to buy some additional trifles. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! + + +TESMAN. + +But we won't trouble you about these things. Hedda says she herself will +look after what is wanting.--Shan't we sit down? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Thanks, for a moment. [Seats himself beside the table.] There is +something I wanted to speak to you about, my dear Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? Ah, I understand! [Seating himself.] I suppose it's the serious +part of the frolic that is coming now. Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Oh, the money question is not so very pressing; though, for that matter, +I wish we had gone a little more economically to work. + + +TESMAN. + +But that would never have done, you know! Think of Hedda, my dear +fellow! You, who know her so well--! I couldn't possibly ask her to put +up with a shabby style of living! + + +BRACK. + +No, no--that is just the difficulty. + + +TESMAN. + +And then--fortunately--it can't be long before I receive my appointment. + + +BRACK. + +Well, you see--such things are often apt to hang fire for a long time. + + +TESMAN. + +Have you heard anything definite? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Nothing exactly definite--. [Interrupting himself.] But by-the-bye--I +have one piece of news for you. + + +TESMAN. + +Well? + + +BRACK. + +Your old friend, Eilert Lovborg, has returned to town. + + +TESMAN. + +I know that already. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! How did you learn it? + + +TESMAN. + +From that lady who went out with Hedda. + + +BRACK. + +Really? What was her name? I didn't quite catch it. + + +TESMAN. + +Mrs. Elvsted. + + +BRACK. + +Aha--Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Of course--he has been living up in their +regions. + + +TESMAN. + +And fancy--I'm delighted to hear that he is quite a reformed character. + + +BRACK. + +So they say. + + +TESMAN. + +And then he has published a new book--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, indeed he has. + + +TESMAN. + +And I hear it has made some sensation! + + +BRACK. + +Quite an unusual sensation. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy--isn't that good news! A man of such extraordinary talents--. I +felt so grieved to think that he had gone irretrievably to ruin. + + +BRACK. + +That was what everybody thought. + + +TESMAN. + +But I cannot imagine what he will take to now! How in the world will he +be able to make his living? Eh? + + [During the last words, HEDDA has entered by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[To BRACK, laughing with a touch of scorn.] Tesman is for ever worrying +about how people are to make their living. + + +TESMAN. + +Well you see, dear--we were talking about poor Eilert Lovborg. + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing at him rapidly.] Oh, indeed? [Sets herself in the arm-chair +beside the stove and asks indifferently:] What is the matter with him? + + +TESMAN. + +Well--no doubt he has run through all his property long ago; and he can +scarcely write a new book every year--eh? So I really can't see what is +to become of him. + + +BRACK. + +Perhaps I can give you some information on that point. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed! + + +BRACK. + +You must remember that his relations have a good deal of influence. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, his relations, unfortunately, have entirely washed their hands of +him. + + +BRACK. + +At one time they called him the hope of the family. + + +TESMAN. + +At one time, yes! But he has put an end to all that. + + +HEDDA. + +Who knows? [With a slight smile.] I hear they have reclaimed him up at +Sheriff Elvsted's-- + + +BRACK. + +And then this book that he has published-- + + +TESMAN. + +Well well, I hope to goodness they may find something for him to do. I +have just written to him. I asked him to come and see us this evening, +Hedda dear. + + +BRACK. + +But my dear fellow, you are booked for my bachelor's party this evening. +You promised on the pier last night. + + +HEDDA. + +Had you forgotten, Tesman? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I had utterly forgotten. + + +BRACK. + +But it doesn't matter, for you may be sure he won't come. + + +TESMAN. + +What makes you think that? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +[With a little hesitation, rising and resting his hands on the back of +his chair.] My dear Tesman--and you too, Mrs. Tesman--I think I ought +not to keep you in the dark about something that--that-- + + +TESMAN. + +That concerns Eilert--? + + +BRACK. + +Both you and him. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, my dear Judge, out with it. + + +BRACK. + +You must be prepared to find your appointment deferred longer than you +desired or expected. + + +TESMAN. + +[Jumping up uneasily.] Is there some hitch about it? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +The nomination may perhaps be made conditional on the result of a +competition-- + + +TESMAN. + +Competition! Think of that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Leans further back in the chair.] Aha--aha! + + +TESMAN. + +But who can my competitor be? Surely not--? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, precisely--Eilert Lovborg. + + +TESMAN. + +[Clasping his hands.] No, no--it's quite impossible! Eh? + + +BRACK. + +H'm--that is what it may come to, all the same. + + +TESMAN. + +Well but, Judge Brack--it would show the most incredible lack of +consideration for me. [Gesticulates with his arms.] For--just think--I'm +a married man! We have married on the strength of these prospects, Hedda +and I; and run deep into debt; and borrowed money from Aunt Julia too. +Good heavens, they had as good as promised me the appointment. Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, well, well--no doubt you will get it in the end; only after a +contest. + + +HEDDA. + +[Immovable in her arm-chair.] Fancy, Tesman, there will be a sort of +sporting interest in that. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, my dearest Hedda, how can you be so indifferent about it? + + +HEDDA. + +[As before.] I am not at all indifferent. I am most eager to see who +wins. + + +BRACK. + +In any case, Mrs. Tesman, it is best that you should know how matters +stand. I mean--before you set about the little purchases I hear you are +threatening. + + +HEDDA. + +This can make no difference. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! Then I have no more to say. Good-bye! [To TESMAN.] I shall look +in on my way back from my afternoon walk, and take you home with me. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, yes--your news has quite upset me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Reclining, holds out her hand.] Good-bye, Judge; and be sure you call +in the afternoon. + + +BRACK. + +Many thanks. Good-bye, good-bye! + + +TESMAN. + +[Accompanying him to the door.] Good-bye my dear Judge! You must really +excuse me-- [JUDGE BRACK goes out by the hall door. + + +TESMAN. + +[Crosses the room.] Oh Hedda--one should never rush into adventures. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him, smiling.] Do you do that? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, dear--there is no denying--it was adventurous to go and marry and +set up house upon mere expectations. + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps you are right there. + + +TESMAN. + +Well--at all events, we have our delightful home, Hedda! Fancy, the home +we both dreamed of--the home we were in love with, I may almost say. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising slowly and wearily.] It was part of our compact that we were to +go into society--to keep open house. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, if you only knew how I had been looking forward to it! Fancy--to +see you as hostess--in a select circle! Eh? Well, well, well--for the +present we shall have to get on without society, Hedda--only to invite +Aunt Julia now and then.--Oh, I intended you to lead such an utterly +different life, dear--! + + +HEDDA. + +Of course I cannot have my man in livery just yet. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, no, unfortunately. It would be out of the question for us to keep a +footman, you know. + + +HEDDA. + +And the saddle-horse I was to have had-- + + +TESMAN. + +[Aghast.] The saddle-horse! + + +HEDDA. + +--I suppose I must not think of that now. + + +TESMAN. + +Good heavens, no!--that's as clear as daylight! + + +HEDDA. + +[Goes up the room.] Well, I shall have one thing at least to kill time +with in the meanwhile. + + +TESMAN. + +[Beaming.] Oh thank heaven for that! What is it, Hedda. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[In the middle doorway, looks at him with covert scorn.] My pistols, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +[In alarm.] Your pistols! + + +HEDDA. + +[With cold eyes.] General Gabler's pistols. + + [She goes out through the inner room, to the left. + + +TESMAN. + +[Rushes up to the middle doorway and calls after her:] No, for heaven's +sake, Hedda darling--don't touch those dangerous things! For my sake +Hedda! Eh? + + + + +ACT SECOND. + + + The room at the TESMANS' as in the first Act, except that the + piano has been removed, and an elegant little writing-table + with the book-shelves put in its place. A smaller table + stands near the sofa on the left. Most of the bouquets have + been taken away. MRS. ELVSTED'S bouquet is upon the large + table in front.--It is afternoon. + + HEDDA, dressed to receive callers, is alone in the room. She + stands by the open glass door, loading a revolver. The + fellow to it lies in an open pistol-case on the writing- + table. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks down the garden, and calls:] So you are here again, Judge! + + +BRACK. + +[Is heard calling from a distance.] As you see, Mrs. Tesman! + + +HEDDA. + +[Raises the pistol and points.] Now I'll shoot you, Judge Brack! + + +BRACK. + +[Calling unseen.] No, no, no! Don't stand aiming at me! + + +HEDDA. + +This is what comes of sneaking in by the back way.(7) [She fires. + + +BRACK. + +[Nearer.] Are you out of your senses--! + + +HEDDA. + +Dear me--did I happen to hit you? + + +BRACK. + +[Still outside.] I wish you would let these pranks alone! + + +HEDDA. + +Come in then, Judge. + + + JUDGE BRACK, dressed as though for a men's party, enters by + the glass door. He carries a light overcoat over his arm. + + +BRACK. + +What the deuce--haven't you tired of that sport, yet? What are you +shooting at? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I am only firing in the air. + + +BRACK. + +[Gently takes the pistol out of her hand.] Allow me, madam! [Looks at +it.] Ah--I know this pistol well! [Looks around.] Where is the case? Ah, +here it is. [Lays the pistol in it, and shuts it.] Now we won't play at +that game any more to-day. + + +HEDDA. + +Then what in heaven's name would you have me do with myself? + + +BRACK. + +Have you had no visitors? + + +HEDDA. + +[Closing the glass door.] Not one. I suppose all our set are still out +of town. + + +BRACK. + +And is Tesman not at home either? + + +HEDDA. + +[At the writing-table, putting the pistol-case in a drawer which she +shuts.] No. He rushed off to his aunt's directly after lunch; he didn't +expect you so early. + + +BRACK. + +H'm--how stupid of me not to have thought of that! + + +HEDDA. + +[Turning her head to look at him.] Why stupid? + + +BRACK. + +Because if I had thought of it I should have come a little--earlier. + + +HEDDA. + +[Crossing the room.] Then you would have found no one to receive you; +for I have been in my room changing my dress ever since lunch. + + +BRACK. + +And is there no sort of little chink that we could hold a parley +through? + + +HEDDA. + +You have forgotten to arrange one. + + +BRACK. + +That was another piece of stupidity. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we must just settle down here--and wait. Tesman is not likely to +be back for some time yet. + + +BRACK. + +Never mind; I shall not be impatient. + + + HEDDA seats herself in the corner of the sofa. BRACK lays his + overcoat over the back of the nearest chair, and sits down, but + keeps his hat in his hand. A short silence. They look at each + other. + + +HEDDA. + +Well? + + +BRACK. + +[In the same tone.] Well? + + +HEDDA. + +I spoke first. + + +BRACK. + +[Bending a little forward.] Come, let us have a cosy little chat, Mrs. +Hedda.(8) + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaning further back in the sofa.] Does it not seem like a whole +eternity since our last talk? Of course I don't count those few words +yesterday evening and this morning. + + +BRACK. + +You mean since our last confidential talk? Our last _tete-a-tete_? + + +HEDDA. + +Well yes--since you put it so. + + +BRACK. + +Not a day passed but I have wished that you were home again. + + +HEDDA. + +And I have done nothing but wish the same thing. + + +BRACK. + +You? Really, Mrs. Hedda? And I thought you had been enjoying your tour +so much! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, you may be sure of that! + + +BRACK. + +But Tesman's letters spoke of nothing but happiness. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, Tesman! You see, he thinks nothing is so delightful as grubbing +in libraries and making copies of old parchments, or whatever you call +them. + + +BRACK. + +[With a smile of malice.] Well, that is his vocation in life--or part of +it at any rate. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, of course; and no doubt when it's your vocation--. But _I_! Oh, my +dear Mr. Brack, how mortally bored I have been. + + +BRACK. + +[Sympathetically.] Do you really say so? In downright earnest? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, you can surely understand it--! To go for six whole months without +meeting a soul that knew anything of our circle, or could talk about +things we were interested in. + + +BRACK. + +Yes, yes--I too should feel that a deprivation. + + +HEDDA. + +And then, what I found most intolerable of all-- + + +BRACK. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +--was being everlastingly in the company of--one and the same person-- + + +BRACK. + +[With a nod of assent.] Morning, noon, and night, yes--at all possible +times and seasons. + + +HEDDA. + +I said "everlastingly." + + +BRACK. + +Just so. But I should have thought, with our excellent Tesman, one +could-- + + +HEDDA. + +Tesman is--a specialist, my dear Judge. + + +BRACK. + +Undeniable. + + +HEDDA. + +And specialists are not at all amusing to travel with. Not in the long +run at any rate. + + +BRACK. + +Not even--the specialist one happens to love? + + +HEDDA. + +Faugh--don't use that sickening word! + + +BRACK. + +[Taken aback.] What do you say, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Half laughing, half irritated.] You should just try it! To hear of +nothing but the history of civilisation, morning, noon, and night-- + + +BRACK. + +Everlastingly. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes yes yes! And then all this about the domestic industry of the middle +ages--! That's the most disgusting part of it! + + +BRACK. + +[Looks searchingly at her.] But tell me--in that case, how am I to +understand your--? H'm-- + + +HEDDA. + +My accepting George Tesman, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Well, let us put it so. + + +HEDDA. + +Good heavens, do you see anything so wonderful in that? + + +BRACK. + +Yes and no--Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I had positively danced myself tired, my dear Judge. My day was +done-- [With a slight shudder.] Oh no--I won't say that; nor think +it either! + + +BRACK. + +You have assuredly no reason to. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, reasons-- [Watching him closely.] And George Tesman--after all, you +must admit that he is correctness itself. + + +BRACK. + +His correctness and respectability are beyond all question. + + +HEDDA. + +And I don't see anything absolutely ridiculous about him.--Do you? + + +BRACK. + +Ridiculous? N--no--I shouldn't exactly say so-- + + +HEDDA. + +Well--and his powers of research, at all events, are untiring.--I see no +reason why he should not one day come to the front, after all. + + +BRACK. + +[Looks at her hesitatingly.] I thought that you, like every one else, +expected him to attain the highest distinction. + + +HEDDA. + +[With an expression of fatigue.] Yes, so I did.--And then, since he was +bent, at all hazards, on being allowed to provide for me--I really don't +know why I should not have accepted his offer? + + +BRACK. + +No--if you look at it in that light-- + + +HEDDA. + +It was more than my other adorers were prepared to do for me, my dear +Judge. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Well, I can't answer for all the rest; but as for myself, +you know quite well that I have always entertained a--a certain respect +for the marriage tie--for marriage as an institution, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +[Jestingly.] Oh, I assure you I have never cherished any hopes with +respect to you. + + +BRACK. + +All I require is a pleasant and intimate interior, where I can make +myself useful in every way, and am free to come and go as--as a trusted +friend-- + + +HEDDA. + +Of the master of the house, do you mean? + + +BRACK. + +[Bowing.] Frankly--of the mistress first of all; but of course of the +master too, in the second place. Such a triangular friendship--if I may +call it so--is really a great convenience for all the parties, let me +tell you. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I have many a time longed for some one to make a third on our +travels. Oh--those railway-carriage _tete-a-tetes_--! + + +BRACK. + +Fortunately your wedding journey is over now. + + +HEDDA. + +[Shaking her head.] Not by a long--long way. I have only arrived at a +station on the line. + + +BRACK. + +Well, then the passengers jump out and move about a little, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I never jump out. + + +BRACK. + +Really? + + +HEDDA. + +No--because there is always some one standing by to-- + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] To look at your ankles, do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Precisely. + + +BRACK. + +Well but, dear me-- + + +HEDDA. + +[With a gesture of repulsion.] I won't have it. I would rather keep my +seat where I happen to be--and continue the _tete-a-tete_. + + +BRACK. + +But suppose a third person were to jump in and join the couple. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah--that is quite another matter! + + +BRACK. + +A trusted, sympathetic friend-- + + +HEDDA. + +--with a fund of conversation on all sorts of lively topics-- + + +BRACK. + +--and not the least bit of a specialist! + + +HEDDA. + +[With an audible sigh.] Yes, that would be a relief indeed. + + +BRACK. + +[Hears the front door open, and glances in that direction.] The triangle +is completed. + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud.] And on goes the train. + + + GEORGE TESMAN, in a grey walking-suit, with a soft felt hat, + enters from the hall. He has a number of unbound books under + his arm and in his pockets. + + +TESMAN. + +[Goes up to the table beside the corner settee.] Ouf--what a load for +a warm day--all these books. [Lays them on the table.] I'm positively +perspiring, Hedda. Hallo--are you there already, my dear Judge? Eh? +Berta didn't tell me. + + +BRACK. + +[Rising.] I came in through the garden. + + +HEDDA. + +What books have you got there? + + +TESMAN. + +[Stands looking them through.] Some new books on my special subjects +--quite indispensable to me. + + +HEDDA. + +Your special subjects? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, books on his special subjects, Mrs. Tesman. + + [BRACK and HEDDA exchange a confidential smile. + + +HEDDA. + +Do you need still more books on your special subjects? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, my dear Hedda, one can never have too many of them. Of course one +must keep up with all that is written and published. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I suppose one must. + + +TESMAN. + +[Searching among his books.] And look here--I have got hold of Eilert +Lovborg's new book too. [Offering it to her.] Perhaps you would like to +glance through it, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, thank you. Or rather--afterwards perhaps. + + +TESMAN. + +I looked into it a little on the way home. + + +BRACK. + +Well, what do you think of it--as a specialist? + + +TESMAN. + +I think it shows quite remarkable soundness of judgment. He never wrote +like that before. [Putting the books together.] Now I shall take all +these into my study. I'm longing to cut the leaves--! And then I must +change my clothes. [To BRACK.] I suppose we needn't start just yet? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Oh, dear no--there is not the slightest hurry. + + +TESMAN. + +Well then, I will take my time. [Is going with his books, but stops in +the doorway and turns.] By-the-bye, Hedda--Aunt Julia is not coming this +evening. + + +HEDDA. + +Not coming? Is it that affair of the bonnet that keeps her away? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, not at all. How could you think such a thing of Aunt Julia? Just +fancy--! The fact is, Aunt Rina is very ill. + + +HEDDA. + +She always is. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, but to-day she is much worse than usual, poor dear. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, then it's only natural that her sister should remain with her. I +must bear my disappointment. + + +TESMAN. + +And you can't imagine, dear, how delighted Aunt Julia seemed to be-- +because you had come home looking so flourishing! + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud, rising.] Oh, those everlasting Aunts! + + +TESMAN. + +What? + + +HEDDA. + +[Going to the glass door.] Nothing. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, all right. [He goes through the inner room, out to the right. + + +BRACK. + +What bonnet were you talking about? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, it was a little episode with Miss Tesman this morning. She had laid +down her bonnet on the chair there--[Looks at him and smiles.]--and I +pretended to think it was the servant's. + + +BRACK. + +[Shaking his head.] Now my dear Mrs. Hedda, how could you do such a +thing? To the excellent old lady, too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Nervously crossing the room.] Well, you see--these impulses come over +me all of a sudden; and I cannot resist them. [Throws herself down in +the easy-chair by the stove.] Oh, I don't know how to explain it. + + +BRACK. + +[Behind the easy-chair.] You are not really happy--that is at the bottom +of it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking straight before her.] I know of no reason why I should be-- +happy. Perhaps you can give me one? + + +BRACK. + +Well-amongst other things, because you have got exactly the home you had +set your heart on. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him and laughs.] Do you too believe in that legend? + + +BRACK. + +Is there nothing in it, then? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, there is something in it. + + +BRACK. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +There is this in it, that I made use of Tesman to see me home from +evening parties last summer-- + + +BRACK. + +I, unfortunately, had to go quite a different way. + + +HEDDA. + +That's true. I know you were going a different way last summer. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Oh fie, Mrs. Hedda! Well, then--you and Tesman--? + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we happened to pass here one evening; Tesman, poor fellow, was +writhing in the agony of having to find conversation; so I took pity on +the learned man-- + + +BRACK. + +[Smiles doubtfully.] You took pity? H'm-- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I really did. And so--to help him out of his torment--I happened to +say, in pure thoughtlessness, that I should like to live in this villa. + + +BRACK. + +No more than that? + + +HEDDA. + +Not that evening. + + +BRACK. + +But afterwards? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, my thoughtlessness had consequences, my dear Judge. + + +BRACK. + +Unfortunately that too often happens, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks! So you see it was this enthusiasm for Secretary Falk's villa +that first constituted a bond of sympathy between George Tesman and me. +From that came our engagement and our marriage, and our wedding journey, +and all the rest of it. Well, well, my dear Judge--as you make your bed +so you must lie, I could almost say. + + +BRACK. + +This is exquisite! And you really cared not a rap about it all the time? + + +HEDDA. + +No, heaven knows I didn't. + + +BRACK. + +But now? Now that we have made it so homelike for you? + + +HEDDA. + +Uh--the rooms all seem to smell of lavender and dried rose-leaves.--But +perhaps it's Aunt Julia that has brought that scent with her. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] No, I think it must be a legacy from the late Mrs. Secretary +Falk. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, there is an odour of mortality about it. It reminds me of a +bouquet--the day after the ball. [Clasps her hands behind her head, +leans back in her chair and looks at him.] Oh, my dear Judge--you cannot +imagine how horribly I shall bore myself here. + + +BRACK. + +Why should not you, too, find some sort of vocation in life, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +A vocation--that should attract me? + + +BRACK. + +If possible, of course. + + +HEDDA. + +Heaven knows what sort of a vocation that could be. I often wonder +whether-- [Breaking off.] But that would never do either. + + +BRACK. + +Who can tell? Let me hear what it is. + + +HEDDA. + +Whether I might not get Tesman to go into politics, I mean. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Tesman? No really now, political life is not the thing for +him--not at all in his line. + + +HEDDA. + +No, I daresay not.--But if I could get him into it all the same? + + +BRACK. + +Why--what satisfaction could you find in that? If he is not fitted for +that sort of thing, why should you want to drive him into it? + + +HEDDA. + +Because I am bored, I tell you! [After a pause.] So you think it quite +out of the question that Tesman should ever get into the ministry? + + +BRACK. + +H'm--you see, my dear Mrs. Hedda--to get into the ministry, he would +have to be a tolerably rich man. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising impatiently.] Yes, there we have it! It is this genteel poverty +I have managed to drop into--! [Crosses the room.] That is what makes +life so pitiable! So utterly ludicrous!--For that's what it is. + + +BRACK. + +Now _I_ should say the fault lay elsewhere. + + +HEDDA. + +Where, then? + + +BRACK. + +You have never gone through any really stimulating experience. + + +HEDDA. + +Anything serious, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, you may call it so. But now you may perhaps have one in store. + + +HEDDA. + +[Tossing her head.] Oh, you're thinking of the annoyances about this +wretched professorship! But that must be Tesman's own affair. I assure +you I shall not waste a thought upon it. + + +BRACK. + +No, no, I daresay not. But suppose now that what people call--in elegant +language--a solemn responsibility were to come upon you? [Smiling.] A +new responsibility, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Angrily.] Be quiet! Nothing of that sort will ever happen! + + +BRACK. + +[Warily.] We will speak of this again a year hence--at the very outside. + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly.] I have no turn for anything of the sort, Judge Brack. No +responsibilities for me! + + +BRACK. + +Are you so unlike the generality of women as to have no turn for duties +which--? + + +HEDDA. + +[Beside the glass door.] Oh, be quiet, I tell you!--I often think there +is only one thing in the world I have any turn for. + + +BRACK. + +[Drawing near to her.] And what is that, if I may ask? + + +HEDDA. + +[Stands looking out.] Boring myself to death. Now you know it. [Turns, +looks towards the inner room, and laughs.] Yes, as I thought! Here comes +the Professor. + + +BRACK. + +[Softly, in a tone of warning.] Come, come, come, Mrs. Hedda! + + + GEORGE TESMAN, dressed for the party, with his gloves and hat + in his hand, enters from the right through the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda, has no message come from Eilert Lovborg? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +TESMAN. + +Then you'll see he'll be here presently. + + +BRACK. + +Do you really think he will come? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I am almost sure of it. For what you were telling us this morning +must have been a mere floating rumour. + + +BRACK. + +You think so? + + +TESMAN. + +At any rate, Aunt Julia said she did not believe for a moment that he +would ever stand in my way again. Fancy that! + + +BRACK. + +Well then, that's all right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Placing his hat and gloves on a chair on the right.] Yes, but you must +really let me wait for him as long as possible. + + +BRACK. + +We have plenty of time yet. None of my guests will arrive before seven +or half-past. + + +TESMAN. + +Then meanwhile we can keep Hedda company, and see what happens. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Placing BRACK'S hat and overcoat upon the corner settee.] And at the +worst Mr. Lovborg can remain here with me. + + +BRACK. + +[Offering to take his things.] Oh, allow me, Mrs. Tesman!--What do you +mean by "At the worst"? + + +HEDDA. + +If he won't go with you and Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks dubiously at her.] But, Hedda dear--do you think it would quite +do for him to remain here with you? Eh? Remember, Aunt Julia can't come. + + +HEDDA. + +No, but Mrs. Elvsted is coming. We three can have a cup of tea together. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, that will be all right. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] And that would perhaps be the safest plan for him. + + +HEDDA. + +Why so? + + +BRACK. + +Well, you know, Mrs. Tesman, how you used to gird at my little bachelor +parties. You declared they were adapted only for men of the strictest +principles. + + +HEDDA. + +But no doubt Mr. Lovborg's principles are strict enough now. A converted +sinner-- [BERTA appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +There's a gentleman asking if you are at home, ma'am-- + + +HEDDA. + +Well, show him in. + + +TESMAN. + +[Softly.] I'm sure it is he! Fancy that! + + + EILERT LOVBORG enters from the hall. He is slim and lean; + of the same age as TESMAN, but looks older and somewhat + worn-out. His hair and beard are of a blackish brown, his + face long and pale, but with patches of colour on the cheeks. + He is dressed in a well-cut black visiting suit, quite new. + He has dark gloves and a silk hat. He stops near the door, + and makes a rapid bow, seeming somewhat embarrassed. + + +TESMAN. + +[Goes up to him and shakes him warmly by the hand.] Well, my dear +Eilert--so at last we meet again! + + +EILERT LOVBORG. + +[Speaks in a subdued voice.] Thanks for your letter, Tesman. +[Approaching HEDDA.] Will you too shake hands with me, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +[Taking his hand.] I am glad to see you, Mr. Lovborg. [With a motion of +her hand.] I don't know whether you two gentlemen--? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Bowing slightly.] Judge Brack, I think. + + +BRACK. + +[Doing likewise.] Oh yes,--in the old days-- + + +TESMAN. + +[To LOVBORG, with his hands on his shoulders.] And now you must make +yourself entirely at home, Eilert! Mustn't he, Hedda?--For I hear you +are going to settle in town again? Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, I am. + + +TESMAN. + +Quite right, quite right. Let me tell you, I have got hold of your new +book; but I haven't had time to read it yet. + + +LOVBORG. + +You may spare yourself the trouble. + + +TESMAN. + +Why so? + + +LOVBORG. + +Because there is very little in it. + + +TESMAN. + +Just fancy--how can you say so? + + +BRACK. + +But it has been very much praised, I hear. + + +LOVBORG. + +That was what I wanted; so I put nothing into the book but what every +one would agree with. + + +BRACK. + +Very wise of you. + + +TESMAN. + +Well but, my dear Eilert--! + + +LOVBORG. + +For now I mean to win myself a position again--to make a fresh start. + + +TESMAN. + +[A little embarrassed.] Ah, that is what you wish to do? Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Smiling, lays down his hat, and draws a packet wrapped in paper, from +his coat pocket.] But when this one appears, George Tesman, you will +have to read it. For this is the real book--the book I have put my true +self into. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? And what is it? + + +LOVBORG. + +It is the continuation. + + +TESMAN. + +The continuation? Of what? + + +LOVBORG. + +Of the book. + + +TESMAN. + +Of the new book? + + +LOVBORG. + +Of course. + + +TESMAN. + + +Why, my dear Eilert--does it not come down to our own days? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, it does; and this one deals with the future. + + +TESMAN. + +With the future! But, good heavens, we know nothing of the future! + + +LOVBORG. + +No; but there is a thing or two to be said about it all the same. [Opens +the packet.] Look here-- + + +TESMAN. + +Why, that's not your handwriting. + + +LOVBORG. + +I dictated it. [Turning over the pages.] It falls into two sections. The +first deals with the civilising forces of the future. And here is the +second--[running through the pages towards the end]--forecasting the +probable line of development. + + +TESMAN. + +How odd now! I should never have thought of writing anything of that +sort. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the glass door, drumming on the pane.] H'm--. I daresay not. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Replacing the manuscript in its paper and laying the packet on the +table.] I brought it, thinking I might read you a little of it this +evening. + + +TESMAN. + +That was very good of you, Eilert. But this evening--? [Looking back at +BRACK.] I don't see how we can manage it-- + + +LOVBORG. + +Well then, some other time. There is no hurry. + + +BRACK. + +I must tell you, Mr. Lovborg--there is a little gathering at my house +this evening--mainly in honour of Tesman, you know-- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking for his hat.] Oh--then I won't detain you-- + + +BRACK. + +No, but listen--will you not do me the favour of joining us? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Curtly and decidedly.] No, I can't--thank you very much. + + +BRACK. + +Oh, nonsense--do! We shall be quite a select little circle. And I assure +you we shall have a "lively time," as Mrs. Hed--as Mrs. Tesman says. + + +LOVBORG. + +I have no doubt of it. But nevertheless-- + + +BRACK. + +And then you might bring your manuscript with you, and read it to Tesman +at my house. I could give you a room to yourselves. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, think of that, Eilert,--why shouldn't you? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Interposing.] But, Tesman, if Mr. Lovborg would really rather not! I +am sure Mr. Lovborg is much more inclined to remain here and have supper +with me. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking at her.] With you, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +And with Mrs. Elvsted. + + +LOVBORG. + +Ah-- [Lightly.] I saw her for a moment this morning. + + +HEDDA. + +Did you? Well, she is coming this evening. So you see you are almost +bound to remain, Mr. Lovborg, or she will have no one to see her home. + + +LOVBORG. + +That's true. Many thanks, Mrs. Tesman--in that case I will remain. + + +HEDDA. + +Then I have one or two orders to give the servant-- + + [She goes to the hall door and rings. BERTA enters. HEDDA talks + to her in a whisper, and points towards the inner room. BERTA + nods and goes out again. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the same time, to LOVBORG.] Tell me, Eilert--is it this new +subject--the future--that you are going to lecture about? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +They told me at the bookseller's that you are going to deliver a course +of lectures this autumn. + + +LOVBORG. + +That is my intention. I hope you won't take it ill, Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh no, not in the least! But--? + + +LOVBORG. + +I can quite understand that it must be very disagreeable to you. + + +TESMAN. + +[Cast down.] Oh, I can't expect you, out of consideration for me, to-- + + +LOVBORG. + +But I shall wait till you have received your appointment. + + +TESMAN. + +Will you wait? Yes but--yes but--are you not going to compete with me? +Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +No; it is only the moral victory I care for. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, bless me--then Aunt Julia was right after all! Oh yes--I knew it! +Hedda! Just fancy--Eilert Lovborg is not going to stand in our way! + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly.] Our way? Pray leave me out of the question. + + [She goes up towards the inner room, where BERTA is placing a + tray with decanters and glasses on the table. HEDDA nods + approval, and comes forward again. BERTA goes out. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the same time.] And you, Judge Brack--what do you say to this? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, I say that a moral victory--h'm--may be all very fine-- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, certainly. But all the same-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking at TESMAN with a cold smile.] You stand there looking as if you +were thunderstruck-- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes--so I am--I almost think-- + + +BRACK. + +Don't you see, Mrs. Tesman, a thunderstorm has just passed over? + + +HEDDA. + +[Pointing towards the room.] Will you not take a glass of cold punch, +gentlemen? + + +BRACK. + +[Looking at his watch.] A stirrup-cup? Yes, it wouldn't come amiss. + + +TESMAN. + +A capital idea, Hedda! Just the thing! Now that the weight has been +taken off my mind-- + + +HEDDA. + +Will you not join them, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +[With a gesture of refusal.] No, thank you. Nothing for me. + + +BRACK. + +Why bless me--cold punch is surely not poison. + + +LOVBORG. + +Perhaps not for everyone. + + +HEDDA. + +I will keep Mr. Lovborg company in the meantime. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, Hedda dear, do. + + [He and BRACK go into the inner room, seat themselves, drink + punch, smoke cigarettes, and carry on a lively conversation + during what follows. EILERT LOVBORG remains standing beside + the stove. HEDDA goes to the writing-table. + + +HEDDA. + +[Raising her voice a little.] Do you care to look at some photographs, +Mr. Lovborg? You know Tesman and I made a tour in the Tyrol on our way +home? + + [She takes up an album, and places it on the table beside the + sofa, in the further corner of which she seats herself. EILERT + LOVBORG approaches, stops, and looks at her. Then he takes a + chair and seats himself to her left. + + +HEDDA. + +[Opening the album.] Do you see this range of mountains, Mr. Lovborg? +It's the Ortler group. Tesman has written the name underneath. Here it +is: "The Ortler group near Meran." + + +LOVBORG. + +[Who has never taken his eyes off her, says softly and slowly:] +Hedda--Gabler! + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing hastily at him.] Ah! Hush! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Repeats softly.] Hedda Gabler! + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking at the album.] That was my name in the old days--when we two +knew each other. + + +LOVBORG. + +And I must teach myself never to say Hedda Gabler again--never, as long +as I live. + + +HEDDA. + +[Still turning over the pages.] Yes, you must. And I think you ought to +practise in time. The sooner the better, I should say. + + +LOVBORG. + +[In a tone of indignation.] Hedda Gabler married? And married to-- +George Tesman! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes--so the world goes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Oh, Hedda, Hedda--how could you(9) throw yourself away! + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks sharply at him.] What? I can't allow this! + + +LOVBORG. + +What do you mean? + + [TESMAN comes into the room and goes towards the sofa. + + +HEDDA. + +[Hears him coming and says in an indifferent tone.] And this is a view +from the Val d'Ampezzo, Mr. Lovborg. Just look at these peaks! [Looks +affectionately up at TESMAN.] What's the name of these curious peaks, +dear? + + +TESMAN. + +Let me see. Oh, those are the Dolomites. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, that's it!--Those are the Dolomites, Mr. Lovborg. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda, dear,--I only wanted to ask whether I shouldn't bring you a +little punch after all? For yourself at any rate--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, do, please; and perhaps a few biscuits. + + +TESMAN. + +No cigarettes? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +TESMAN. + +Very well. + + [He goes into the inner room and out to the right. BRACK sits + in the inner room, and keeps an eye from time to time on HEDDA + and LOVBORG. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Softly, as before.] Answer me, Hedda--how could you go and do this? + + +HEDDA. + +[Apparently absorbed in the album.] If you continue to say _du_ to me I +won't talk to you. + + +LOVBORG. + +May I not say _du_ even when we are alone? + + +HEDDA. + +No. You may think it; but you mustn't say it. + + +LOVBORG. + +Ah, I understand. It is an offence against George Tesman, whom +you(10)--love. + + +HEDDA. + +[Glances at him and smiles.] Love? What an idea! + + +LOVBORG. + +You don't love him then! + + +HEDDA. + +But I won't hear of any sort of unfaithfulness! Remember that. + + +LOVBORG. + +Hedda--answer me one thing-- + + +HEDDA. + +Hush! [TESMAN enters with a small tray from the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +Here you are! Isn't this tempting? [He puts the tray on the table. + + +HEDDA. + +Why do you bring it yourself? + + +TESMAN. + +[Filling the glasses.] Because I think it's such fun to wait upon you, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +But you have poured out two glasses. Mr. Lovborg said he wouldn't have +any-- + + +TESMAN. + +No, but Mrs. Elvsted will soon be here, won't she? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, by-the-bye--Mrs. Elvsted-- + + +TESMAN. + +Had you forgotten her? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +We were so absorbed in these photographs. [Shows him a picture.] Do you +remember this little village? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, it's that one just below the Brenner Pass. It was there we passed +the night-- + + +HEDDA. + +--and met that lively party of tourists. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that was the place. Fancy--if we could only have had you with us, +Eilert! Eh? + + [He returns to the inner room and sits beside BRACK. + + +LOVBORG. + +Answer me one thing, Hedda-- + + +HEDDA. + +Well? + + +LOVBORG. + +Was there no love in your friendship for me either? Not a spark--not a +tinge of love in it? + + +HEDDA. + +I wonder if there was? To me it seems as though we were two good +comrades--two thoroughly intimate friends. [Smilingly.] You especially +were frankness itself. + + +LOVBORG. + +It was you that made me so. + + +HEDDA. + +As I look back upon it all, I think there was really something +beautiful, something fascinating--something daring--in--in that secret +intimacy--that comradeship which no living creature so much as dreamed +of. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, yes, Hedda! Was there not?--When I used to come to your father's +in the afternoon--and the General sat over at the window reading his +papers--with his back towards us-- + + +HEDDA. + +And we two on the corner sofa-- + + +LOVBORG. + +Always with the same illustrated paper before us-- + + +HEDDA. + +For want of an album, yes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, Hedda, and when I made my confessions to you--told you about +myself, things that at that time no one else knew! There I would sit +and tell you of my escapades--my days and nights of devilment. Oh, +Hedda--what was the power in you that forced me to confess these things? + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think it was any power in me? + + +LOVBORG. + +How else can I explain it? And all those--those roundabout questions you +used to put to me-- + + +HEDDA. + +Which you understood so particularly well-- + + +LOVBORG. + +How could you sit and question me like that? Question me quite +frankly-- + + +HEDDA. + +In roundabout terms, please observe. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, but frankly nevertheless. Cross-question me about--all that sort of +thing? + + +HEDDA. + +And how could you answer, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, that is just what I can't understand--in looking back upon it. But +tell me now, Hedda--was there not love at the bottom of our friendship? +On your side, did you not feel as though you might purge my stains +away--if I made you my confessor? Was it not so? + + +HEDDA. + +No, not quite. + + +LOVBORG. + +What was you motive, then? + + +HEDDA. + +Do think it quite incomprehensible that a young girl--when it can be +done--without any one knowing-- + + +LOVBORG. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +--should be glad to have a peep, now and then, into a world which--? + + +LOVBORG. + +Which--? + + +HEDDA. + +--which she is forbidden to know anything about? + + +LOVBORG. + +So that was it? + + +HEDDA. + +Partly. Partly--I almost think. + + +LOVBORG. + +Comradeship in the thirst for life. But why should not that, at any +rate, have continued? + + +HEDDA. + +The fault was yours. + + +LOVBORG. + +It was you that broke with me. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, when our friendship threatened to develop into something more +serious. Shame upon you, Eilert Lovborg! How could you think of wronging +your--your frank comrade. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Clenches his hands.] Oh, why did you not carry out your threat? Why did +you not shoot me down? + + +HEDDA. + +Because I have such a dread of scandal. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, Hedda, you are a coward at heart. + + +HEDDA. + +A terrible coward. [Changing her tone.] But it was a lucky thing for +you. And now you have found ample consolation at the Elvsteds'. + + +LOVBORG. + +I know what Thea has confided to you. + + +HEDDA. + +And perhaps you have confided to her something about us? + + +LOVBORG. + +Not a word. She is too stupid to understand anything of that sort. + + +HEDDA. + +Stupid? + + +LOVBORG. + +She is stupid about matters of that sort. + + +HEDDA. + +And I am cowardly. [Bends over towards him, without looking him in the +face, and says more softly:] But now I will confide something to you. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Eagerly.] Well? + + +HEDDA. + +The fact that I dared not shoot you down-- + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes! + + +HEDDA. + +--that was not my arrant cowardice--that evening. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her a moment, understands, and whispers passionately.] Oh, +Hedda! Hedda Gabler! Now I begin to see a hidden reason beneath our +comradeship! You(11) and I--! After all, then, it was your craving for +life-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Softly, with a sharp glance.] Take care! Believe nothing of the sort! + + [Twilight has begun to fall. The hall door is opened from + without by BERTA. + + +HEDDA. + +[Closes the album with a bang and calls smilingly:] Ah, at last! My +darling Thea,--come along! + + MRS. ELVSTED enters from the hall. She is in evening dress. + The door is closed behind her. + + +HEDDA. + +[On the sofa, stretches out her arms towards her.] My sweet Thea--you +can't think how I have been longing for you! + + [MRS. ELVSTED, in passing, exchanges slight salutations with + the gentlemen in the inner room, then goes up to the table + and gives HEDDA her hand. EILERT LOVBORG has risen. He and + MRS. ELVSTED greet each other with a silent nod. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ought I to go in and talk to your husband for a moment? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, not at all. Leave those two alone. They will soon be going. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Are they going out? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, to a supper-party. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Quickly, to LOVBORG.] Not you? + + +LOVBORG. + +No. + + +HEDDA. + +Mr. Lovborg remains with us. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Takes a chair and is about to seat herself at his side.] Oh, how nice +it is here! + + +HEDDA. + +No, thank you, my little Thea! Not there! You'll be good enough to come +over here to me. I will sit between you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, just as you please. + + [She goes round the table and seats herself on the sofa on + HEDDA'S right. LOVBORG re-seats himself on his chair. + + +LOVBORG. + +[After a short pause, to HEDDA.] Is not she lovely to look at? + + +HEDDA. + +[Lightly stroking her hair.] Only to look at! + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. For we two--she and I--we are two real comrades. We have absolute +faith in each other; so we can sit and talk with perfect frankness-- + + +HEDDA. + +Not round about, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +Well-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly clinging close to HEDDA.] Oh, how happy I am, Hedda! For only +think, he says I have inspired him too. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her with a smile.] Ah! Does he say that, dear? + + +LOVBORG. + +And then she is so brave, Mrs. Tesman! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Good heavens--am I brave? + + +LOVBORG. + +Exceedingly--where your comrade is concerned. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, yes--courage! If one only had that! + + +LOVBORG. + +What then? What do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Then life would perhaps be liveable, after all. [With a sudden change +of tone.] But now, my dearest Thea, you really must have a glass of cold +punch. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, thanks--I never take anything of that kind. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, you, Mr. Lovborg. + + +LOVBORG. + +Nor I, thank you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he doesn't either. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks fixedly at him.] But if I say you shall? + + +LOVBORG. + +It would be of no use. + + +HEDDA. + +[Laughing.] Then I, poor creature, have no sort of power over you? + + +LOVBORG. + +Not in that respect. + + +HEDDA. + +But seriously, I think you ought to--for your own sake. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Why, Hedda--! + + +LOVBORG. + +How so? + + +HEDDA. + +Or rather on account of other people. + + +LOVBORG. + +Indeed? + + +HEDDA. + +Otherwise people might be apt to suspect that--in your heart of +hearts--you did not feel quite secure--quite confident in yourself. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly.] Oh please, Hedda--! + +LOVBORG. + +People may suspect what they like--for the present. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Joyfully.] Yes, let them! + + +HEDDA. + +I saw it plainly in Judge Brack's face a moment ago. + + +LOVBORG. + +What did you see? + + +HEDDA. + +His contemptuous smile, when you dared not go with them into the inner +room. + + +LOVBORG. + +Dared not? Of course I preferred to stop here and talk to you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What could be more natural, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +But the Judge could not guess that. And I say, too, the way he smiled +and glanced at Tesman when you dared not accept his invitation to this +wretched little supper-party of his. + + +LOVBORG. + +Dared not! Do you say I dared not? + + +HEDDA. + +_I_ don't say so. But that was how Judge Brack understood it. + + +LOVBORG. + +Well, let him. + + +HEDDA. + +Then you are not going with them? + + +LOVBORG. + +I will stay here with you and Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, Hedda--how can you doubt that? + + +HEDDA. + +[Smiles and nods approvingly to LOVBORG.] Firm as a rock! Faithful to +your principles, now and for ever! Ah, that is how a man should be! +[Turns to MRS. ELVSTED and caresses her.] Well now, what did I tell you, +when you came to us this morning in such a state of distraction-- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Surprised.] Distraction! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Terrified.] Hedda--oh Hedda--! + + +HEDDA. + +You can see for yourself! You haven't the slightest reason to be in such +mortal terror-- [Interrupting herself.] There! Now we can all three +enjoy ourselves! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Who has given a start.] Ah--what is all this, Mrs. Tesman? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh my God, Hedda! What are you saying? What are you doing? + + +HEDDA. + +Don't get excited! That horrid Judge Brack is sitting watching you. + + +LOVBORG. + +So she was in mortal terror! On my account! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly and piteously.] Oh, Hedda--now you have ruined everything! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks fixedly at her for a moment. His face is distorted.] So that was +my comrade's frank confidence in me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Imploringly.] Oh, my dearest friend--only let me tell you-- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Takes one of the glasses of punch, raises it to his lips, and says in a +low, husky voice.] Your health, Thea! + + [He empties the glass, puts it down, and takes the second. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly.] Oh, Hedda, Hedda--how could you do this? + + +HEDDA. + +_I_ do it? _I_? Are you crazy? + + +LOVBORG. + +Here's to your health too, Mrs. Tesman. Thanks for the truth. Hurrah for +the truth! + + [He empties the glass and is about to re-fill it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Lays her hand on his arm.] Come, come--no more for the present. +Remember you are going out to supper. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no, no! + + +HEDDA. + +Hush! They are sitting watching you. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Putting down the glass.] Now, Thea--tell me the truth-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Did your husband know that you had come after me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] Oh, Hedda--do you hear what he is asking? + + +LOVBORG. + +Was it arranged between you and him that you were to come to town and +look after me? Perhaps it was the Sheriff himself that urged you to +come? Aha, my dear--no doubt he wanted my help in his office! Or was it +at the card-table that he missed me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly, in agony.] Oh, Lovborg, Lovborg--! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Seizes a glass and is on the point of filling it.] Here's a glass for +the old Sheriff too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Preventing him.] No more just now. Remember, you have to read your +manuscript to Tesman. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Calmly, putting down the glass.] It was stupid of me all this. Thea--to +take it in this way, I mean. Don't be angry with me, my dear, dear +comrade. You shall see--both you and the others--that if I was fallen +once--now I have risen again! Thanks to you, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Radiant with joy.] Oh, heaven be praised--! + + [BRACK has in the meantime looked at his watch. He and TESMAN + rise and come into the drawing-room. + + +BRACK. + +[Takes his hat and overcoat.] Well, Mrs. Tesman, our time has come. + + +HEDDA. + +I suppose it has. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Rising.] Mine too, Judge Brack. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly and imploringly.] Oh, Lovborg, don't do it! + + +HEDDA. + +[Pinching her arm.] They can hear you! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With a suppressed shriek.] Ow! + + +LOVBORG. + +[To BRACK.] You were good enough to invite me. + + +JUDGE BRACK. + +Well, are you coming after all? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, many thanks. + + +BRACK. + +I'm delighted-- + + +LOVBORG. + +[To TESMAN, putting the parcel of MS. in his pocket.] I should like to +show you one or two things before I send it to the printers. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy--that will be delightful. But, Hedda dear, how is Mrs. Elvsted to +get home? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that can be managed somehow. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking towards the ladies.] Mrs. Elvsted? Of course, I'll come again +and fetch her. [Approaching.] At ten or thereabouts, Mrs. Tesman? Will +that do? + + +HEDDA. + +Certainly. That will do capitally. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, then, that's all right. But you must not expect me so early, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, you may stop as long--as long as ever you please. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Trying to conceal her anxiety.] Well then, Mr. Lovborg--I shall remain +here until you come. + + +LOVBORG. + +[With his hat in his hand.] Pray do, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +BRACK. + +And now off goes the excursion train, gentlemen! I hope we shall have a +lively time, as a certain fair lady puts it. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, if only the fair lady could be present unseen--! + + +BRACK. + +Why unseen? + + +HEDDA. + +In order to hear a little of your liveliness at first hand, Judge Brack. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] I should not advise the fair lady to try it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Also laughing.] Come, you're a nice one Hedda! Fancy that! + + +BRACK. + +Well, good-bye, good-bye, ladies. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Bowing.] About ten o'clock, then, + + [BRACK, LOVBORG, and TESMAN go out by the hall door. At the + same time, BERTA enters from the inner room with a lighted + lamp, which she places on the drawing-room table; she goes + out by the way she came. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Who has risen and is wandering restlessly about the room.] Hedda-- +Hedda--what will come of all this? + + +HEDDA. + +At ten o'clock--he will be here. I can see him already--with vine-leaves +in his hair--flushed and fearless-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I hope he may. + + +HEDDA. + +And then, you see--then he will have regained control over himself. Then +he will be a free man for all his days. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh God!--if he would only come as you see him now! + + +HEDDA. + +He will come as I see him--so, and not otherwise! [Rises and approaches +THEA.] You may doubt him as long as you please; _I_ believe in him. And +now we will try-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +You have some hidden motive in this, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I have. I want for once in my life to have power to mould a human +destiny. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Have you not the power? + + +HEDDA. + +I have not--and have never had it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Not your husband's? + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think that is worth the trouble? Oh, if you could only understand +how poor I am. And fate has made you so rich! [Clasps her passionately +in her arms.] I think I must burn your hair off after all. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Let me go! Let me go! I am afraid of you, Hedda! + + +BERTA. + +[In the middle doorway.] Tea is laid in the dining-room, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Very well. We are coming + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no, no! I would rather go home alone! At once! + + +HEDDA. + +Nonsense! First you shall have a cup of tea, you little stupid. And +then--at ten o'clock--Eilert Lovborg will be here--with vine-leaves in +his hair. + + [She drags MRS. ELVSTED almost by force to the middle doorway. + + + + +ACT THIRD. + + + The room at the TESMANS'. The curtains are drawn over the + middle doorway, and also over the glass door. The lamp, + half turned down, and with a shade over it, is burning on + the table. In the stove, the door of which stands open, + there has been a fire, which is now nearly burnt out. + + MRS. ELVSTED, wrapped in a large shawl, and with her feet + upon a foot-rest, sits close to the stove, sunk back in + the arm-chair. HEDDA, fully dressed, lies sleeping upon + the sofa, with a sofa-blanket over her. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[After a pause, suddenly sits up in her chair, and listens eagerly. Then +she sinks back again wearily, moaning to herself.] Not yet!--Oh God--oh +God--not yet! + + + BERTA slips cautiously in by the hall door. She has a letter in + her hand. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Turns and whispers eagerly.] Well--has any one come? + + +BERTA. + +[Softly.] Yes, a girl has just brought this letter. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Quickly, holding out her hand.] A letter! Give it to me! + + +BERTA. + +No, it's for Dr. Tesman, ma'am. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, indeed. + + +BERTA. + +It was Miss Tesman's servant that brought it. I'll lay it here on the +table. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, do. + + +BERTA. + +[Laying down the letter.] I think I had better put out the lamp. It's +smoking. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, put it out. It must soon be daylight now. + + +BERTA. + +[Putting out the lamp.] It is daylight already, ma'am. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, broad day! And no one come back yet--! + + +BERTA. + +Lord bless you, ma'am--I guessed how it would be. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +You guessed? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, when I saw that a certain person had come back to town--and that he +went off with them. For we've heard enough about that gentleman before +now. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Don't speak so loud. You will waken Mrs. Tesman. + + +BERTA. + +[Looks towards the sofa and sighs.] No, no--let her sleep, poor thing. +Shan't I put some wood on the fire? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Thanks, not for me. + + +BERTA. + +Oh, very well. [She goes softly out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Is wakened by the shutting of the door, and looks up.] What's that--? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +It was only the servant. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking about her.] Oh, we're here--! Yes, now I remember. [Sits erect +upon the sofa, stretches herself, and rubs her eyes.] What o'clock is +it, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at her watch.] It's past seven. + + +HEDDA. + +When did Tesman come home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has not come. + + +HEDDA. + +Not come home yet? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rising.] No one has come. + + +HEDDA. + +Think of our watching and waiting here till four in the morning-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] And how I watched and waited for him! + + +HEDDA. + +[Yawns, and says with her hand before her mouth.] Well well--we might +have spared ourselves the trouble. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Did you get a little sleep? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes; I believe I have slept pretty well. Have you not? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Not for a moment. I couldn't, Hedda!--not to save my life. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rises and goes towards her.] There there there! There's nothing to be +so alarmed about. I understand quite well what has happened. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, what do you think? Won't you tell me? + + +HEDDA. + +Why, of course it has been a very late affair at Judge Brack's-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes--that is clear enough. But all the same-- + + +HEDDA. + +And then, you see, Tesman hasn't cared to come home and ring us up in +the middle of the night. [Laughing.] Perhaps he wasn't inclined to show +himself either--immediately after a jollification. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But in that case--where can he have gone? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course he has gone to his Aunts' and slept there. They have his old +room ready for him. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he can't be with them for a letter has just come for him from Miss +Tesman. There it lies. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? [Looks at the address.] Why yes, it's addressed in Aunt Julia's +hand. Well then, he has remained at Judge Brack's. And as for Eilert +Lovborg--he is sitting, with vine-leaves in his hair, reading his +manuscript. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, Hedda, you are just saying things you don't believe a bit. + + +HEDDA. + +You really are a little blockhead, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh yes, I suppose I am. + + +HEDDA. + +And how mortally tired you look. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I am mortally tired. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, you must do as I tell you. You must go into my room and lie +down for a little while. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--I shouldn't be able to sleep. + + +HEDDA. + +I am sure you would. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, but you husband is certain to come soon now; and then I want to +know at once-- + + +HEDDA. + +I shall take care to let you know when he comes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Do you promise me, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, rely upon me. Just you go in and have a sleep in the meantime. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Thanks; then I'll try. [She goes off to the inner room. + + [HEDDA goes up to the glass door and draws back the curtains. + The broad daylight streams into the room. Then she takes a + little hand-glass from the writing-table, looks at herself + in it, and arranges her hair. Next she goes to the hall + door and presses the bell-button. + + + BERTA presently appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +Did you want anything, ma'am? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes; you must put some more wood in the stove. I am shivering. + + +BERTA. + +Bless me--I'll make up the fire at once. [She rakes the embers together +and lays a piece of wood upon them; then stops and listens.] That was a +ring at the front door, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Then go to the door. I will look after the fire. + + +BERTA. + +It'll soon burn up. [She goes out by the hall door. + + [HEDDA kneels on the foot-rest and lays some more pieces of + wood in the stove. + + + After a short pause, GEORGE TESMAN enters from the hall. He + steals on tiptoe towards the middle doorway and is about to + slip through the curtains. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the stove, without looking up.] Good morning. + + +TESMAN. + +[Turns.] Hedda! [Approaching her.] Good heavens--are you up so early? +Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am up very early this morning. + + +TESMAN. + +And I never doubted you were still sound asleep! Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Don't speak so loud. Mrs. Elvsted is resting in my room. + + +TESMAN. + +Has Mrs. Elvsted been here all night? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, since no one came to fetch her. + + +TESMAN. + +Ah, to be sure. + + +HEDDA. + +[Closes the door of the stove and rises.] Well, did you enjoy yourselves +at Judge Brack's? + + +TESMAN. + +Have you been anxious about me? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, I should never think of being anxious. But I asked if you had +enjoyed yourself. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes,--for once in a way. Especially the beginning of the evening; for +then Eilert read me part of his book. We arrived more than an hour too +early--fancy that! And Brack had all sorts of arrangements to make--so +Eilert read to me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Seating herself by the table on the right.] Well? Tell me then-- + + +TESMAN. + +[Sitting on a footstool near the stove.] Oh, Hedda, you can't conceive +what a book that is going to be! I believe it is one of the most +remarkable things that have ever been written. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes yes; I don't care about that-- + + +TESMAN. + +I must make a confession to you, Hedda. When he had finished reading--a +horrid feeling came over me. + + +HEDDA. + +A horrid feeling? + + +TESMAN. + +I felt jealous of Eilert for having had it in him to write such a book. +Only think, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, yes, I am thinking! + + +TESMAN. + +And then how pitiful to think that he--with all his gifts--should be +irreclaimable, after all. + + +HEDDA. + +I suppose you mean that he has more courage than the rest? + + +TESMAN. + +No, not at all--I mean that he is incapable of taking his pleasure in +moderation. + + +HEDDA. + +And what came of it all--in the end? + + +TESMAN. + +Well, to tell the truth, I think it might best be described as an orgie, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Had he vine-leaves in his hair? + + +TESMAN. + +Vine-leaves? No, I saw nothing of the sort. But he made a long, rambling +speech in honour of the woman who had inspired him in his work--that was +the phrase he used. + + +HEDDA. + +Did he name her? + + +TESMAN. + +No, he didn't; but I can't help thinking he meant Mrs. Elvsted. You may +be sure he did. + + +HEDDA. + +Well--where did you part from him? + + +TESMAN. + +On the way to town. We broke up--the last of us at any rate--all +together; and Brack came with us to get a breath of fresh air. And then, +you see, we agreed to take Eilert home; for he had had far more than was +good for him. + + +HEDDA. + +I daresay. + + +TESMAN. + +But now comes the strange part of it, Hedda; or, I should rather say, +the melancholy part of it. I declare I am almost ashamed--on Eilert's +account--to tell you-- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, go on--! + + +TESMAN. + +Well, as we were getting near town, you see, I happened to drop a little +behind the others. Only for a minute or two--fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes yes yes, but--? + + +TESMAN. + +And then, as I hurried after them--what do you think I found by the +wayside? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, how should I know! + + +TESMAN. + +You mustn't speak of it to a soul, Hedda! Do you hear! Promise me, for +Eilert's sake. [Draws a parcel, wrapped in paper, from his coat pocket.] +Fancy, dear--I found this. + + +HEDDA. + +Is not that the parcel he had with him yesterday? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, it is the whole of his precious, irreplaceable manuscript! And he +had gone and lost it, and knew nothing about it. Only fancy, Hedda! So +deplorably-- + + +HEDDA. + +But why did you not give him back the parcel at once? + + +TESMAN. + +I didn't dare to--in the state he was then in-- + + +HEDDA. + +Did you not tell any of the others that you had found it? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, far from it! You can surely understand that, for Eilert's sake, I +wouldn't do that. + + +HEDDA. + +So no one knows that Eilert Lovborg's manuscript is in your possession? + + +TESMAN. + +No. And no one must know it. + +HEDDA. + +Then what did you say to him afterwards? + + +TESMAN. + +I didn't talk to him again at all; for when we got in among the streets, +he and two or three of the others gave us the slip and disappeared. +Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed! They must have taken him home then. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, so it would appear. And Brack, too, left us. + + +HEDDA. + +And what have you been doing with yourself since? + + +TESMAN. + +Well, I and some of the others went home with one of the party, a jolly +fellow, and took our morning coffee with him; or perhaps I should rather +call it our night coffee--eh? But now, when I have rested a little, and +given Eilert, poor fellow, time to have his sleep out, I must take this +back to him. + + +HEDDA. + +[Holds out her hand for the packet.] No--don't give it to him! Not in +such a hurry, I mean. Let me read it first. + + +TESMAN. + +No, my dearest Hedda, I mustn't, I really mustn't. + + +HEDDA. + +You must not? + + +TESMAN. + +No--for you can imagine what a state of despair he will be in when he +wakens and misses the manuscript. He has no copy of it, you must know! +He told me so. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking searchingly at him.] Can such a thing not be reproduced? +Written over again? + + +TESMAN. + +No, I don't think that would be possible. For the inspiration, you +see-- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, yes--I suppose it depends on that--[Lightly.] But, by-the-bye +--here is a letter for you. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy--! + + +HEDDA. + +[Handing it to him.] It came early this morning. + + +TESMAN. + +It's from Aunt Julia! What can it be? [He lays the packet on the other +footstool, opens the letter, runs his eye through it, and jumps up.] Oh, +Hedda--she says that poor Aunt Rina is dying! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we were prepared for that. + + +TESMAN. + +And that if I want to see her again, I must make haste. I'll run in to +them at once. + + +HEDDA. + +[Suppressing a smile.] Will you run? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, my dearest Hedda--if you could only make up your mind to come with +me! Just think! + + +HEDDA. + +[Rises and says wearily, repelling the idea.] No, no don't ask me. I +will not look upon sickness and death. I loathe all sorts of ugliness. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, well, then--! [Bustling around.] My hat--? My overcoat--? Oh, +in the hall--. I do hope I mayn't come too late, Hedda! Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, if you run-- [BERTA appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +Judge Brack is at the door, and wishes to know if he may come in. + + +TESMAN. + +At this time! No, I can't possibly see him. + + +HEDDA. + +But I can. [To BERTA.] Ask Judge Brack to come in. [BERTA goes out. + + +HEDDA. + +[Quickly, whispering.] The parcel, Tesman! + + [She snatches it up from the stool. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, give it to me! + + +HEDDA. + +No, no, I will keep it till you come back. + + [She goes to the writing-table and places it in the bookcase. + TESMAN stands in a flurry of haste, and cannot get his + gloves on. + + + JUDGE BRACK enters from the hall. + + +HEDDA. + +[Nodding to him.] You are an early bird, I must say. + + +BRACK. + +Yes, don't you think so! [To TESMAN.] Are you on the move, too? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I must rush of to my aunts'. Fancy--the invalid one is lying at +death's door, poor creature. + + +BRACK. + +Dear me, is she indeed? Then on no account let me detain you. At such a +critical moment-- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I must really rush-- Good-bye! Good-bye! + + [He hastens out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Approaching.] You seem to have made a particularly lively night of it +at your rooms, Judge Brack. + + +BRACK. + +I assure you I have not had my clothes off, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Not you, either? + + +BRACK. + +No, as you may see. But what has Tesman been telling you of the night's +adventures? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, some tiresome story. Only that they went and had coffee somewhere or +other. + + +BRACK. + +I have heard about that coffee-party already. Eilert Lovborg was not +with them, I fancy? + + +HEDDA. + +No, they had taken him home before that. + + +BRACK. + +Tesman too? + + +HEDDA. + +No, but some of the others, he said. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] George Tesman is really an ingenuous creature, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, heaven knows he is. Then is there something behind all this? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, perhaps there may be. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, sit down, my dear Judge, and tell your story in comfort. + + [She seats herself to the left of the table. BRACK sits near + her, at the long side of the table. + + +HEDDA. + +Now then? + + +BRACK. + +I had special reasons for keeping track of my guests--last night. + + +HEDDA. + +Of Eilert Lovborg among the rest, perhaps? + + +BRACK. + +Frankly, yes. + + +HEDDA. + +Now you make me really curious-- + + +BRACK. + +Do you know where he and one or two of the others finished the night, +Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +If it is not quite unmentionable, tell me. + + +BRACK. + +Oh no, it's not at all unmentionable. Well, they put in an appearance at +a particularly animated soiree. + + +HEDDA. + +Of the lively kind? + + +BRACK. + +Of the very liveliest-- + + +HEDDA. + +Tell me more of this, Judge Brack-- + + +BRACK. + +Lovborg, as well as the others, had been invited in advance. I knew all +about it. But he had declined the invitation; for now, as you know, he +has become a new man. + + +HEDDA. + +Up at the Elvsteds', yes. But he went after all, then? + + +BRACK. + +Well, you see, Mrs. Hedda--unhappily the spirit moved him at my rooms +last evening-- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I hear he found inspiration. + + +BRACK. + +Pretty violent inspiration. Well, I fancy that altered his purpose; for +we menfolk are unfortunately not always so firm in our principles as we +ought to be. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I am sure you are an exception, Judge Brack. But as to Lovborg--? + + +BRACK. + +To make a long story short--he landed at last in Mademoiselle Diana's +rooms. + + +HEDDA. + +Mademoiselle Diana's? + + +BRACK. + +It was Mademoiselle Diana that was giving the soiree, to a select circle +of her admirers and her lady friends. + + +HEDDA. + +Is she a red-haired woman? + + +BRACK. + +Precisely. + + +HEDDA. + +A sort of a--singer? + + +BRACK. + +Oh yes--in her leisure moments. And moreover a mighty huntress--of +men--Mrs. Hedda. You have no doubt heard of her. Eilert Lovborg was one +of her most enthusiastic protectors--in the days of his glory. + + +HEDDA. + +And how did all this end? + + +BRACK. + +Far from amicably, it appears. After a most tender meeting, they seem to +have come to blows-- + + +HEDDA. + +Lovborg and she? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. He accused her or her friends of having robbed him. He declared +that his pocket-book had disappeared--and other things as well. In +short, he seems to have made a furious disturbance. + + +HEDDA. + +And what came of it all? + + +BRACK. + +It came to a general scrimmage, in which the ladies as well as the +gentlemen took part. Fortunately the police at last appeared on the +scene. + + +HEDDA. + +The police too? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. I fancy it will prove a costly frolic for Eilert Lovborg, crazy +being that he is. + + +HEDDA. + +How so? + + +BRACK. + +He seems to have made a violent resistance--to have hit one of the +constables on the head and torn the coat off his back. So they had to +march him off to the police-station with the rest. + + +HEDDA. + +How have you learnt all this? + + +BRACK. + +From the police themselves. + + +HEDDA. + +[Gazing straight before her.] So that is what happened. Then he had no +vine-leaves in his hair. + + +BRACK. + +Vine-leaves, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Changing her tone.] But tell me now, Judge--what is your real reason +for tracking out Eilert Lovborg's movements so carefully? + + +BRACK. + +In the first place, it could not be entirely indifferent to me if it +should appear in the police-court that he came straight from my house. + + +HEDDA. + +Will the matter come into court then? + + +BRACK. + +Of course. However, I should scarcely have troubled so much about that. +But I thought that, as a friend of the family, it was my duty to supply +you and Tesman with a full account of his nocturnal exploits. + + +HEDDA. + +Why so, Judge Brack? + + +BRACK. + +Why, because I have a shrewd suspicion that he intends to use you as a +sort of blind. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, how can you think such a thing! + + +BRACK. + +Good heavens, Mrs. Hedda--we have eyes in our head. Mark my words! This +Mrs. Elvsted will be in no hurry to leave town again. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, even if there should be anything between them, I suppose there are +plenty of other places where they could meet. + + +BRACK. + +Not a single home. Henceforth, as before, every respectable house will +be closed against Eilert Lovborg. + + +HEDDA. + +And so ought mine to be, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. I confess it would be more than painful to me if this personage +were to be made free of your house. How superfluous, how intrusive, he +would be, if he were to force his way into-- + + +HEDDA. + +--into the triangle? + + +BRACK. + +Precisely. It would simply mean that I should find myself homeless. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him with a smile.] So you want to be the one cock in the +basket(12)--that is your aim. + + +BRACK. + +[Nods slowly and lowers his voice.] Yes, that is my aim. And for that I +will fight--with every weapon I can command. + + +HEDDA. + +[Her smile vanishing.] I see you are a dangerous person--when it comes +to the point. + + +BRACK. + +Do you think so? + + +HEDDA. + +I am beginning to think so. And I am exceedingly glad to think--that you +have no sort of hold over me. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing equivocally.] Well well, Mrs. Hedda--perhaps you are right +there. If I had, who knows what I might be capable of? + + +HEDDA. + +Come come now, Judge Brack! That sounds almost like a threat. + + +BRACK. + +[Rising.] Oh, not at all! The triangle, you know, ought, if possible, to +be spontaneously constructed. + + +HEDDA. + +There I agree with you. + + +BRACK. + +Well, now I have said all I had to say; and I had better be getting back +to town. Good-bye, Mrs. Hedda. [He goes towards the glass door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising.] Are you going through the garden? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, it's a short cut for me. + + +HEDDA. + +And then it is a back way, too. + + +BRACK. + +Quite so. I have no objection to back ways. They may be piquant enough +at times. + + +HEDDA. + +When there is ball practice going on, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +[In the doorway, laughing to her.] Oh, people don't shoot their tame +poultry, I fancy. + + +HEDDA. + +[Also laughing.] Oh no, when there is only one cock in the basket-- + + [They exchange laughing nods of farewell. He goes. She closes + the door behind him. + + [HEDDA, who has become quite serious, stands for a moment + looking out. Presently she goes and peeps through the + curtain over the middle doorway. Then she goes to the + writing-table, takes LOVBORG'S packet out of the bookcase, + and is on the point of looking through its contents. BERTA + is heard speaking loudly in the hall. HEDDA turns and + listens. Then she hastily locks up the packet in the drawer, + and lays the key on the inkstand. + + + EILERT LOVBORG, with his greatcoat on and his hat in his + hand, tears open the hall door. He looks somewhat confused + and irritated. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking towards the hall.] and I tell you I must and will come in! +There! + + [He closes the door, turns, sees HEDDA, at once regains his self- + control, and bows. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the writing-table.] Well, Mr Lovborg, this is rather a late hour to +call for Thea. + + +LOVBORG. + +You mean rather an early hour to call on you. Pray pardon me. + + +HEDDA. + +How do you know that she is still here? + + +LOVBORG. + +They told me at her lodgings that she had been out all night. + + +HEDDA. + +[Going to the oval table.] Did you notice anything about the people of +the house when they said that? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks inquiringly at her.] Notice anything about them? + + +HEDDA. + +I mean, did they seem to think it odd? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Suddenly understanding.] Oh yes, of course! I am dragging her down with +me! However, I didn't notice anything.--I suppose Tesman is not up yet. + + +HEDDA. + +No--I think not-- + + +LOVBORG. + +When did he come home? + + +HEDDA. + +Very late. + + +LOVBORG. + +Did he tell you anything? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I gathered that you had had an exceedingly jolly evening at Judge +Brack's. + + +LOVBORG. + +Nothing more? + + +HEDDA. + +I don't think so. However, I was so dreadfully sleepy-- + + + MRS. ELVSTED enters through the curtains of the middle doorway. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Going towards him.] Ah, Lovborg! At last--! + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, at last. And too late! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks anxiously at him.] What is too late? + + +LOVBORG. + +Everything is too late now. It is all over with me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--don't say that! + + +LOVBORG. + +You will say the same when you hear-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I won't hear anything! + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps you would prefer to talk to her alone? If so, I will leave you. + + +LOVBORG. + +No, stay--you too. I beg you to stay. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but I won't hear anything, I tell you. + + +LOVBORG. + +It is not last night's adventures that I want to talk about. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What is it then--? + + +LOVBORG. + +I want to say that now our ways must part. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Part! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] I knew it! + + +LOVBORG. + +You can be of no more service to me, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +How can you stand there and say that! No more service to you! Am I not +to help you now, as before? Are we not to go on working together? + + +LOVBORG. + +Henceforward I shall do no work. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Despairingly.] Then what am I to do with my life? + + +LOVBORG. + +You must try to live your life as if you had never known me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But you know I cannot do that! + + +LOVBORG. + +Try if you cannot, Thea. You must go home again-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In vehement protest.] Never in this world! Where you are, there will I +be also! I will not let myself be driven away like this! I will remain +here! I will be with you when the book appears. + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud, in suspense.] Ah yes--the book! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] My book and Thea's; for that is what it is. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I feel that it is. And that is why I have a right to be with you +when it appears! I will see with my own eyes how respect and honour pour +in upon you afresh. And the happiness--the happiness--oh, I must share +it with you! + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea--our book will never appear. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Never appear! + + +LOVBORG. + +Can never appear. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In agonised foreboding.] Lovborg--what have you done with the +manuscript? + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks anxiously at him.] Yes, the manuscript--? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Where is it? + + +LOVBORG. + +The manuscript--. Well then--I have torn the manuscript into a thousand +pieces. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shrieks.] Oh no, no--! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] But that's not-- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] Not true, you think? + + +HEDDA. + +[Collecting herself.] Oh well, of course--since you say so. But it +sounded so improbable-- + + +LOVBORG. + +It is true, all the same. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] Oh God--oh God, Hedda--torn his own work to +pieces! + + +LOVBORG. + +I have torn my own life to pieces. So why should I not tear my +life-work too--? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +And you did this last night? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, I tell you! Tore it into a thousand pieces--and scattered them on +the fiord--far out. There there is cool sea-water at any rate--let them +drift upon it--drift with the current and the wind. And then presently +they will sink--deeper and deeper--as I shall, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Do you know, Lovborg, that what you have done with the book--I shall +think of it to my dying day as though you had killed a little child. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, you are right. It is a sort of child-murder. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +How could you, then--! Did not the child belong to me too? + + +HEDDA. + +[Almost inaudibly.] Ah, the child-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Breathing heavily.] It is all over then. Well well, now I will go, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +But you are not going away from town? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I don't know what I shall do. I see nothing but darkness before me. +[She goes out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Stands waiting for a moment.] So you are not going to see her home, Mr. +Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +I? Through the streets? Would you have people see her walking with me? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course I don't know what else may have happened last night. But is it +so utterly irretrievable? + + +LOVBORG. + +It will not end with last night--I know that perfectly well. And the +thing is that now I have no taste for that sort of life either. I won't +begin it anew. She has broken my courage and my power of braving life +out. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking straight before her.] So that pretty little fool has had her +fingers in a man's destiny. [Looks at him.] But all the same, how could +you treat her so heartlessly. + + +LOVBORG. + +Oh, don't say that I was heartless! + + +HEDDA. + +To go and destroy what has filled her whole soul for months and years! +You do not call that heartless! + + +LOVBORG. + +To you I can tell the truth, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +The truth? + + +LOVBORG. + +First promise me--give me your word--that what I now confide in you Thea +shall never know. + + +HEDDA. + +I give you my word. + + +LOVBORG. + +Good. Then let me tell you that what I said just now was untrue. + + +HEDDA. + +About the manuscript? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. I have not torn it to pieces--nor thrown it into the fiord. + + +HEDDA. + +No, no--. But--where is it then? + + +LOVBORG. + +I have destroyed it none the less--utterly destroyed it, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +I don't understand. + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea said that what I had done seemed to her like a child-murder. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so she said. + + +LOVBORG. + +But to kill his child--that is not the worst thing a father can do to +it. + + +HEDDA. + +Not the worst? + + +LOVBORG. + +Suppose now, Hedda, that a man--in the small hours of the morning--came +home to his child's mother after a night of riot and debauchery, and +said: "Listen--I have been here and there--in this place and in that. +And I have taken our child with--to this place and to that. And I have +lost the child--utterly lost it. The devil knows into what hands it may +have fallen--who may have had their clutches on it." + + +HEDDA. + +Well--but when all is said and done, you know--this was only a book-- + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea's pure soul was in that book. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so I understand. + + +LOVBORG. + +And you can understand, too, that for her and me together no future is +possible. + + +HEDDA. + +What path do you mean to take then? + + +LOVBORG. + +None. I will only try to make an end of it all--the sooner the better. + + +HEDDA. + +[A step nearer him.] Eilert Lovborg--listen to me.--Will you not try +to--to do it beautifully? + + +LOVBORG. + +Beautifully? [Smiling.] With vine-leaves in my hair, as you used to +dream in the old days--? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no. I have lost my faith in the vine-leaves. But beautifully +nevertheless! For once in a way!--Good-bye! You must go now--and do not +come here any more. + + +LOVBORG. + +Good-bye, Mrs. Tesman. And give George Tesman my love. + + [He is on the point of going. + + +HEDDA. + +No, wait! I must give you a memento to take with you. + + [She goes to the writing-table and opens the drawer and the + pistol-case; then returns to LOVBORG with one of the pistols. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] This? Is this the memento? + + +HEDDA. + +[Nodding slowly.] Do you recognise it? It was aimed at you once. + + +LOVBORG. + +You should have used it then. + + +HEDDA. + +Take it--and do you use it now. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Puts the pistol in his breast pocket.] Thanks! + + +HEDDA. + +And beautifully, Eilert Lovborg. Promise me that! + + +LOVBORG. + +Good-bye, Hedda Gabler. [He goes out by the hall door. + + [HEDDA listens for a moment at the door. Then she goes up to + the writing-table, takes out the packet of manuscript, peeps + under the cover, draws a few of the sheets half out, and + looks at them. Next she goes over and seats herself in the + arm-chair beside the stove, with the packet in her lap. + Presently she opens the stove door, and then the packet. + + +HEDDA. + +[Throws one of the quires into the fire and whispers to herself.] Now I +am burning your child, Thea!--Burning it, curly-locks! [Throwing one +or two more quires into the stove.] Your child and Eilert Lovborg's. +[Throws the rest in.] I am burning--I am burning your child. + + + + +ACT FOURTH. + + The same rooms at the TESMANS'. It is evening. The drawing- + room is in darkness. The back room is lighted by the hanging + lamp over the table. The curtains over the glass door are + drawn close. + + HEDDA, dressed in black, walks to and fro in the dark room. + Then she goes into the back room and disappears for a moment + to the left. She is heard to strike a few chords on the + piano. Presently she comes in sight again, and returns to + the drawing-room. + + BERTA enters from the right, through the inner room, with a + lighted lamp, which she places on the table in front of the + corner settee in the drawing-room. Her eyes are red with + weeping, and she has black ribbons in her cap. She goes + quietly and circumspectly out to the right. HEDDA goes up + to the glass door, lifts the curtain a little aside, and + looks out into the darkness. + + Shortly afterwards, MISS TESMAN, in mourning, with a bonnet + and veil on, comes in from the hall. HEDDA goes towards her + and holds out her hand. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, Hedda, here I am, in mourning and forlorn; for now my poor sister +has at last found peace. + + +HEDDA. + +I have heard the news already, as you see. Tesman sent me a card. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, he promised me he would. But nevertheless I thought that to +Hedda--here in the house of life--I ought myself to bring the tidings of +death. + + +HEDDA. + +That was very kind of you. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Ah, Rina ought not to have left us just now. This is not the time for +Hedda's house to be a house of mourning. + + +HEDDA. + +[Changing the subject.] She died quite peacefully, did she not, Miss +Tesman? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, her end was so calm, so beautiful. And then she had the unspeakable +happiness of seeing George once more--and bidding him good-bye.--Has he +not come home yet? + + +HEDDA. + +No. He wrote that he might be detained. But won't you sit down? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No thank you, my dear, dear Hedda. I should like to, but I have so much +to do. I must prepare my dear one for her rest as well as I can. She +shall go to her grave looking her best. + + +HEDDA. + +Can I not help you in any way? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, you must not think of it! Hedda Tesman must have no hand in such +mournful work. Nor let her thought dwell on it either--not at this time. + + +HEDDA. + +One is not always mistress of one's thoughts-- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Continuing.] Ah yes, it is the way of the world. At home we shall be +sewing a shroud; and here there will soon be sewing too, I suppose--but +of another sort, thank God! + + + GEORGE TESMAN enters by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, you have come at last! + + +TESMAN. + +You here, Aunt Julia? With Hedda? Fancy that! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I was just going, my dear boy. Well, have you done all you promised? + + +TESMAN. + +No; I'm really afraid I have forgotten half of it. I must come to you +again to-morrow. To-day my brain is all in a whirl. I can't keep my +thoughts together. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why, my dear George, you mustn't take it in this way. + + +TESMAN. + +Mustn't--? How do you mean? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Even in your sorrow you must rejoice, as I do--rejoice that she is at +rest. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, yes--you are thinking of Aunt Rina. + + +HEDDA. + +You will feel lonely now, Miss Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Just at first, yes. But that will not last very long, I hope. I daresay +I shall soon find an occupant for Rina's little room. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? Who do you think will take it? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, there's always some poor invalid or other in want of nursing, +unfortunately. + + +HEDDA. + +Would you really take such a burden upon you again? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +A burden! Heaven forgive you, child--it has been no burden to me. + + +HEDDA. + +But suppose you had a total stranger on your hands-- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, one soon makes friends with sick folk; and it's such an absolute +necessity for me to have some one to live for. Well, heaven be praised, +there may soon be something in this house, too, to keep an old aunt +busy. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, don't trouble about anything here. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, just fancy what a nice time we three might have together, if--? + + +HEDDA. + +If--? + + +TESMAN. + +[Uneasily.] Oh nothing. It will all come right. Let us hope so--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well, I daresay you two want to talk to each other. [Smiling.] And +perhaps Hedda may have something to tell you too, George. Good-bye! I +must go home to Rina. [Turning at the door.] How strange it is to think +that now Rina is with me and with my poor brother as well! + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, fancy that, Aunt Julia! Eh? + + [MISS TESMAN goes out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Follows TESMAN coldly and searchingly with her eyes.] I almost believe +your Aunt Rina's death affects you more than it does your Aunt Julia. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, it's not that alone. It's Eilert I am so terribly uneasy about. + + +HEDDA. + +[Quickly.] Is there anything new about him? + + +TESMAN. + +I looked in at his rooms this afternoon, intending to tell him the +manuscript was in safe keeping. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, did you find him? + + +TESMAN. + +No. He wasn't at home. But afterwards I met Mrs. Elvsted, and she told +me that he had been here early this morning. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, directly after you had gone. + + +TESMAN. + +And he said that he had torn his manuscript to pieces--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so he declared. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, good heavens, he must have been completely out of his mind! And I +suppose you thought it best not to give it back to him, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +No, he did not get it. + + +TESMAN. + +But of course you told him that we had it? + + +HEDDA. + +No. [Quickly.] Did you tell Mrs. Elvsted? + + +TESMAN. + +No; I thought I had better not. But you ought to have told him. Fancy, +if, in desperation, he should go and do himself some injury! Let me have +the manuscript, Hedda! I will take it to him at once. Where is it? + + +HEDDA. + +[Cold and immovable, leaning on the arm-chair.] I have not got it. + + +TESMAN. + +Have not got it? What in the world do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +I have burnt it--every line of it. + + +TESMAN. + +[With a violent movement of terror.] Burnt! Burnt Eilert's manuscript! + + +HEDDA. + +Don't scream so. The servant might hear you. + + +TESMAN. + +Burnt! Why, good God--! No, no, no! It's impossible! + + +HEDDA. + +It is so, nevertheless. + + +TESMAN. + +Do you know what you have done, Hedda? It's unlawful appropriation of +lost property. Fancy that! Just ask Judge Brack, and he'll tell you what +it is. + + +HEDDA. + +I advise you not to speak of it--either to Judge Brack or to anyone +else. + + +TESMAN. + +But how could you do anything so unheard-of? What put it into your head? +What possessed you? Answer me that--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Suppressing an almost imperceptible smile.] I did it for your sake, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +For my sake! + + +HEDDA. + +This morning, when you told me about what he had read to you-- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes yes--what then? + + +HEDDA. + +You acknowledged that you envied him his work. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, of course I didn't mean that literally. + + +HEDDA. + +No matter--I could not bear the idea that any one should throw you into +the shade. + + +TESMAN. + +[In an outburst of mingled doubt and joy.] Hedda! Oh, is this true? +But--but--I never knew you show your love like that before. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, I may as well tell you that--just at this time-- [Impatiently +breaking off.] No, no; you can ask Aunt Julia. She will tell you, fast +enough. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, I almost think I understand you, Hedda! [Clasps his hands together.] +Great heavens! do you really mean it! Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Don't shout so. The servant might hear. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing in irrepressible glee.] The servant! Why, how absurd you are, +Hedda. It's only my old Berta! Why, I'll tell Berta myself. + + +HEDDA. + +[Clenching her hands together in desperation.] Oh, it is killing me, +--it is killing me, all this! + + +TESMAN. + +What is, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Coldly, controlling herself.] All this--absurdity--George. + + +TESMAN. + +Absurdity! Do you see anything absurd in my being overjoyed at the news! +But after all--perhaps I had better not say anything to Berta. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh--why not that too? + + +TESMAN. + +No, no, not yet! But I must certainly tell Aunt Julia. And then that you +have begun to call me George too! Fancy that! Oh, Aunt Julia will be so +happy--so happy! + + +HEDDA. + +When she hears that I have burnt Eilert Lovborg's manuscript--for your +sake? + + +TESMAN. + +No, by-the-bye--that affair of the manuscript--of course nobody must +know about that. But that you love me so much,(13) Hedda--Aunt Julia +must really share my joy in that! I wonder, now, whether this sort of +thing is usual in young wives? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I think you had better ask Aunt Julia that question too. + + +TESMAN. + +I will indeed, some time or other. [Looks uneasy and downcast again.] +And yet the manuscript--the manuscript! Good God! it is terrible to +think what will become of poor Eilert now. + + + MRS. ELVSTED, dressed as in the first Act, with hat and cloak, + enters by the hall door. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Greets them hurriedly, and says in evident agitation.] Oh, dear Hedda, +forgive my coming again. + + +HEDDA. + +What is the matter with you, Thea? + + +TESMAN. + +Something about Eilert Lovborg again--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes! I am dreadfully afraid some misfortune has happened to him. + + +HEDDA. + +[Seized her arm.] Ah,--do you think so? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, good Lord--what makes you think that, Mrs. Elvsted? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I heard them talking of him at my boarding-house--just as I came in. Oh, +the most incredible rumours are afloat about him to-day. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, fancy, so I heard too! And I can bear witness that he went straight +home to bed last night. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, what did they say at the boarding-house? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I couldn't make out anything clearly. Either they knew nothing +definite, or else--. They stopped talking when the saw me; and I did +not dare to ask. + + +TESMAN. + +[Moving about uneasily.] We must hope--we must hope that you +misunderstood them, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no; I am sure it was of him they were talking. And I heard something +about the hospital or-- + + +TESMAN. + +The hospital? + + +HEDDA. + +No--surely that cannot be! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I was in such mortal terror! I went to his lodgings and asked for +him there. + + +HEDDA. + +You could make up your mind to that, Thea! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What else could I do? I really could bear the suspense no longer. + + +TESMAN. + +But you didn't find him either--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No. And the people knew nothing about him. He hadn't been home since +yesterday afternoon, they said. + + +TESMAN. + +Yesterday! Fancy, how could they say that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I am sure something terrible must have happened to him. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda dear--how would it be if I were to go and make inquiries--? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no--don't you mix yourself up in this affair. + + + JUDGE BRACK, with his hat in his hand, enters by the hall + door, which BERTA opens, and closes behind him. He looks + grave and bows in silence. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, is that you, my dear Judge? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. It was imperative I should see you this evening. + + +TESMAN. + +I can see you have heard the news about Aunt Rina? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, that among other things. + + +TESMAN. + +Isn't it sad--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, my dear Tesman, that depends on how you look at it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks doubtfully at him.] Has anything else happened? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. + + +HEDDA. + +[In suspense.] Anything sad, Judge Brack? + + +BRACK. + +That, too, depends on how you look at it, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Unable to restrain her anxiety.] Oh! it is something about Eilert +Lovborg! + + +BRACK. + +[With a glance at her.] What makes you think that, Madam? Perhaps you +have already heard something--? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In confusion.] No, nothing at all, but-- + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, for heaven's sake, tell us! + + +BRACK. + +[Shrugging his shoulders.] Well, I regret to say Eilert Lovborg has been +taken to the hospital. He is lying at the point of death. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shrieks.] Oh God! oh God--! + + +TESMAN. + +To the hospital! And at the point of death! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] So soon then-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wailing.] And we parted in anger, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Whispers.] Thea--Thea--be careful! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Not heeding her.] I must go to him! I must see him alive! + + +BRACK. + +It is useless, Madam. No one will be admitted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, at least tell me what has happened to him? What is it? + + +TESMAN. + +You don't mean to say that he has himself-- Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am sure he has. + + +BRACK. + +[Keeping his eyes fixed upon her.] Unfortunately you have guessed quite +correctly, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how horrible! + + +TESMAN. + +Himself, then! Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Shot himself! + + +BRACK. + +Rightly guessed again, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With an effort at self-control.] When did it happen, Mr. Brack? + + +BRACK. + +This afternoon--between three and four. + + +TESMAN. + +But, good Lord, where did he do it? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +[With some hesitation.] Where? Well--I suppose at his lodgings. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, that cannot be; for I was there between six and seven. + + +BRACK. + +Well then, somewhere else. I don't know exactly. I only know that he was +found--. He had shot himself--in the breast. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how terrible! That he should die like that! + + +HEDDA. + +[To BRACK.] Was it in the breast? + + +BRACK. + +Yes--as I told you. + + +HEDDA. + +Not in the temple? + + +BRACK. + +In the breast, Mrs. Tesman. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, well--the breast is a good place, too. + + +BRACK. + +How do you mean, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +[Evasively.] Oh, nothing--nothing. + + +TESMAN. + +And the wound is dangerous, you say--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Absolutely mortal. The end has probably come by this time. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, I feel it. The end! The end! Oh, Hedda--! + + +TESMAN. + +But tell me, how have you learnt all this? + + +BRACK. + +[Curtly.] Through one of the police. A man I had some business with. + + +HEDDA. + +[In a clear voice.] At last a deed worth doing! + + +TESMAN. + +[Terrified.] Good heavens, Hedda! what are you saying? + + +HEDDA. + +I say there is beauty in this. + + +BRACK. + +H'm, Mrs. Tesman-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, Hedda, how can you talk of beauty in such an act! + + +HEDDA. + +Eilert Lovborg has himself made up his account with life. He has had the +courage to do--the one right thing. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, you must never think that was how it happened! It must have been in +delirium that he did it. + + +TESMAN. + +In despair! + + +HEDDA. + +That he did not. I am certain of that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes! In delirium! Just as when he tore up our manuscript. + + +BRACK. + +[Starting.] The manuscript? Has he torn that up? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, last night. + + +TESMAN. + +[Whispers softly.] Oh, Hedda, we shall never get over this. + + +BRACK. + +H'm, very extraordinary. + + +TESMAN. + +[Moving about the room.] To think of Eilert going out of the world +in this way! And not leaving behind him the book that would have +immortalised his name-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if only it could be put together again! + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, if it only could! I don't know what I would not give-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Perhaps it can, Mr. Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +What do you mean? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Searches in the pocket of her dress.] Look here. I have kept all the +loose notes he used to dictate from. + + +HEDDA. + +[A step forward.] Ah--! + + +TESMAN. + +You have kept them, Mrs. Elvsted! Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I have them here. I put them in my pocket when I left home. Here +they still are-- + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, do let me see them! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Hands him a bundle of papers.] But they are in such disorder--all mixed +up. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy, if we could make something out of them, after all! Perhaps if we +two put our heads together-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh yes, at least let us try-- + + +TESMAN. + +We will manage it! We must! I will dedicate my life to this task. + + +HEDDA. + +You, George? Your life? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, or rather all the time I can spare. My own collections must wait in +the meantime. Hedda--you understand, eh? I owe this to Eilert's memory. + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps. + + +TESMAN. + +And so, my dear Mrs. Elvsted, we will give our whole minds to it. There +is no use in brooding over what can't be undone--eh? We must try to +control our grief as much as possible, and-- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, Mr. Tesman, I will do the best I can. + + +TESMAN. + +Well then, come here. I can't rest until we have looked through the +notes. Where shall we sit? Here? No, in there, in the back room. Excuse +me, my dear Judge. Come with me, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if only it were possible! + + [TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED go into the back room. She takes + off her hat and cloak. They both sit at the table under the + hanging lamp, and are soon deep in an eager examination of + the papers. HEDDA crosses to the stove and sits in the arm- + chair. Presently BRACK goes up to her. + + +HEDDA. + +[In a low voice.] Oh, what a sense of freedom it gives one, this act of +Eilert Lovborg's. + + +BRACK. + +Freedom, Mrs. Hedda? Well, of course, it is a release for him-- + + +HEDDA. + +I mean for me. It gives me a sense of freedom to know that a deed +of deliberate courage is still possible in this world,--a deed of +spontaneous beauty. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] H'm--my dear Mrs. Hedda-- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I know what you are going to say. For you are a kind of specialist +too, like--you know! + + +BRACK. + +[Looking hard at her.] Eilert Lovborg was more to you than perhaps you +are willing to admit to yourself. Am I wrong? + + +HEDDA. + +I don't answer such questions. I only know that Eilert Lovborg has had +the courage to live his life after his own fashion. And then--the last +great act, with its beauty! Ah! that he should have the will and the +strength to turn away from the banquet of life--so early. + + +BRACK. + +I am sorry, Mrs. Hedda,--but I fear I must dispel an amiable illusion. + + +HEDDA. + +Illusion? + + +BRACK. + +Which could not have lasted long in any case. + + +HEDDA. + +What do you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Eilert Lovborg did not shoot himself--voluntarily. + + +HEDDA. + +Not voluntarily? + + +BRACK. + +No. The thing did not happen exactly as I told it. + + +HEDDA. + +[In suspense.] Have you concealed something? What is it? + + +BRACK. + +For poor Mrs. Elvsted's sake I idealised the facts a little. + + +HEDDA. + +What are the facts? + + +BRACK. + +First, that he is already dead. + + +HEDDA. + +At the hospital? + + +BRACK. + +Yes--without regaining consciousness. + + +HEDDA. + +What more have you concealed? + + +BRACK. + +This--the event did not happen at his lodgings. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that can make no difference. + + +BRACK. + +Perhaps it may. For I must tell you--Eilert Lovborg was found shot +in--in Mademoiselle Diana's boudoir. + + +HEDDA. + +[Makes a motion as if to rise, but sinks back again.] That is +impossible, Judge Brack! He cannot have been there again to-day. + + +BRACK. + +He was there this afternoon. He went there, he said, to demand the +return of something which they had taken from him. Talked wildly about a +lost child-- + + +HEDDA. + +Ah--so that is why-- + + +BRACK. + +I thought probably he meant his manuscript; but now I hear he destroyed +that himself. So I suppose it must have been his pocket-book. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, no doubt. And there--there he was found? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, there. With a pistol in his breast-pocket, discharged. The ball had +lodged in a vital part. + + +HEDDA. + +In the breast--yes? + + +BRACK. + +No--in the bowels. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him with an expression of loathing.] That too! Oh, what +curse is it that makes everything I touch turn ludicrous and mean? + + +BRACK. + +There is one point more, Mrs. Hedda--another disagreeable feature in the +affair. + + +HEDDA. + +And what is that? + + +BRACK. + +The pistol he carried-- + + +HEDDA. + +[Breathless.] Well? What of it? + + +BRACK. + +He must have stolen it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaps up.] Stolen it! That is not true! He did not steal it! + + +BRACK. + +No other explanation is possible. He must have stolen it--. Hush! + + + TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED have risen from the table in the back- + room, and come into the drawing-room. + + +TESMAN. + +[With the papers in both his hands.] Hedda, dear, it is almost +impossible to see under that lamp. Think of that! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am thinking. + + +TESMAN. + +Would you mind our sitting at your writing-table--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +If you like. [Quickly.] No, wait! Let me clear it first! + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, you needn't trouble, Hedda. There is plenty of room. + + +HEDDA. + +No no, let me clear it, I say! I will take these things in and put them +on the piano. There! + + [She has drawn out an object, covered with sheet music, from + under the bookcase, places several other pieces of music upon + it, and carries the whole into the inner room, to the left. + TESMAN lays the scraps of paper on the writing-table, and moves + the lamp there from the corner table. He and Mrs. Elvsted sit + down and proceed with their work. HEDDA returns. + + +HEDDA. + +[Behind Mrs. Elvsted's chair, gently ruffling her hair.] Well, my sweet +Thea,--how goes it with Eilert Lovborg's monument? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks dispiritedly up at her.] Oh, it will be terribly hard to put in +order. + + +TESMAN. + +We must manage it. I am determined. And arranging other people's papers +is just the work for me. + + [HEDDA goes over to the stove, and seats herself on one of the + footstools. BRACK stands over her, leaning on the arm-chair. + + +HEDDA. + +[Whispers.] What did you say about the pistol? + + +BRACK. + +[Softly.] That he must have stolen it. + + +HEDDA. + +Why stolen it? + + +BRACK. + +Because every other explanation ought to be impossible, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? + + +BRACK. + +[Glances at her.] Of course Eilert Lovborg was here this morning. Was he +not? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes. + + +BRACK. + +Were you alone with him? + + +HEDDA. + +Part of the time. + + +BRACK. + +Did you not leave the room whilst he was here? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +BRACK. + +Try to recollect. Were you not out of the room a moment? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, perhaps just a moment--out in the hall. + + +BRACK. + +And where was your pistol-case during that time? + + +HEDDA. + +I had it locked up in-- + + +BRACK. + +Well, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +The case stood there on the writing-table. + + +BRACK. + +Have you looked since, to see whether both the pistols are there? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +BRACK. + +Well, you need not. I saw the pistol found in Lovborg's pocket, and I +knew it at once as the one I had seen yesterday--and before, too. + + +HEDDA. + +Have you it with you? + + +BRACK. + +No; the police have it. + + +HEDDA. + +What will the police do with it? + + +BRACK. + +Search till they find the owner. + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think they will succeed? + + +BRACK. + +[Bends over her and whispers.] No, Hedda Gabler--not so long as I say +nothing. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks frightened at him.] And if you do not say nothing,--what then? + + +BRACK. + +[Shrugs his shoulders.] There is always the possibility that the pistol +was stolen. + + +HEDDA. + +[Firmly.] Death rather than that. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] People say such things--but they don't do them. + + +HEDDA. + +[Without replying.] And supposing the pistol was not stolen, and the +owner is discovered? What then? + + +BRACK. + +Well, Hedda--then comes the scandal! + + +HEDDA. + +The scandal! + + +BRACK. + +Yes, the scandal--of which you are so mortally afraid. You will, of +course, be brought before the court--both you and Mademoiselle Diana. +She will have to explain how the thing happened--whether it was an +accidental shot or murder. Did the pistol go off as he was trying to +take it out of his pocket, to threaten her with? Or did she tear the +pistol out of his hand, shoot him, and push it back into his pocket? +That would be quite like her; for she is an able-bodied young person, +this same Mademoiselle Diana. + + +HEDDA. + +But _I_ have nothing to do with all this repulsive business. + + +BRACK. + +No. But you will have to answer the question: Why did you give Eilert +the pistol? And what conclusions will people draw from the fact that you +did give it to him? + + +HEDDA. + +[Lets her head sink.] That is true. I did not think of that. + + +BRACK. + +Well, fortunately, there is no danger, so long as I say nothing. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him.] So I am in your power, Judge Brack. You have me at +your beck and call, from this time forward. + + +BRACK. + +[Whispers softly.] Dearest Hedda--believe me--I shall not abuse my +advantage. + + +HEDDA. + +I am in your power none the less. Subject to your will and your demands. +A slave, a slave then! [Rises impetuously.] No, I cannot endure the +thought of that! Never! + + +BRACK. + +[Looks half-mockingly at her.] People generally get used to the +inevitable. + + +HEDDA. + +[Returns his look.] Yes, perhaps. [She crosses to the writing-table. +Suppressing an involuntary smile, she imitates TESMAN'S intonations.] +Well? Are you getting on, George? Eh? + + +TESMAN. + +Heaven knows, dear. In any case it will be the work of months. + + +HEDDA. + +[As before.] Fancy that! [Passes her hands softly through Mrs. Elvsted's +hair.] Doesn't it seem strange to you, Thea? Here are you sitting with +Tesman--just as you used to sit with Eilert Lovborg? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ah, if I could only inspire your husband in the same way! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that will come too--in time. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, do you know, Hedda--I really think I begin to feel something of the +sort. But won't you go and sit with Brack again? + + +HEDDA. + +Is there nothing I can do to help you two? + + +TESMAN. + +No, nothing in the world. [Turning his head.] I trust to you to keep +Hedda company, my dear Brack. + + +BRACK. + +[With a glance at HEDDA.] With the very greatest of pleasure. + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks. But I am tired this evening. I will go in and lie down a little +on the sofa. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, do dear--eh? + + [HEDDA goes into the back room and draws the curtains. A short + pause. Suddenly she is heard playing a wild dance on the piano. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Starts from her chair.] Oh--what is that? + + +TESMAN. + +[Runs to the doorway.] Why, my dearest Hedda--don't play dance-music +to-night! Just think of Aunt Rina! And of Eilert too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Puts her head out between the curtains.] And of Aunt Julia. And of all +the rest of them.--After this, I will be quiet. [Closes the curtains +again.] + + +TESMAN. + +[At the writing-table.] It's not good for her to see us at this +distressing work. I'll tell you what, Mrs. Elvsted,--you shall take the +empty room at Aunt Julia's, and then I will come over in the evenings, +and we can sit and work there--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[In the inner room.] I hear what you are saying, Tesman. But how am _I_ +to get through the evenings out here? + + +TESMAN. + +[Turning over the papers.] Oh, I daresay Judge Brack will be so kind as +to look in now and then, even though I am out. + + +BRACK. + +[In the arm-chair, calls out gaily.] Every blessed evening, with all the +pleasure in life, Mrs. Tesman! We shall get on capitally together, we +two! + + +HEDDA. + +[Speaking loud and clear.] Yes, don't you flatter yourself we will, +Judge Brack? Now that you are the one cock in the basket-- + + [A shot is heard within. TESMAN, MRS. ELVSTED, and BRACK leap + to their feet. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, now she is playing with those pistols again. + + [He throws back the curtains and runs in, followed by MRS. + ELVSTED. HEDDA lies stretched on the sofa, lifeless. + Confusion and cries. BERTA enters in alarm from the right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Shrieks to BRACK.] Shot herself! Shot herself in the temple! Fancy +that! + + +BRACK. + +[Half-fainting in the arm-chair.] Good God!--people don't do such +things. + + +THE END + + +FOOTNOTES. + + + (1)Pronounce _Reena_. + + (2)In the original "Statsradinde Falks villa"--showing that it had + belonged to the widow of a cabinet minister. + + (3)_Du_ equals thou: Tesman means, "If you could persuade yourself + to _tutoyer_ her." + + (4)See previous note. + + (5)Pronounce _Tora_ and _Taya_. + + (6)Mrs. Elvsted here uses the formal pronoun _De_, whereupon Hedda + rebukes her. In her next speech Mrs. Elvsted says _du_. + + (7)"Bagveje" means both "back ways" and "underhand courses." + + (8)As this form of address is contrary to English usage, and as the + note of familiarity would be lacking in "Mrs. Tesman," Brack may, + in stage representation, say "Miss Hedda," thus ignoring her + marriage and reverting to the form of address no doubt customary + between them of old. + + (9)He uses the familiar _du_. + + (10)From this point onward Lovborg use the formal _De_. + + (11)In this speech he once more says _du_. Hedda addresses him + throughout as _De_. + + (12)"Enest hane i kurven"--a proverbial saying. + + (13)Literally, "That you burn for me." + + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hedda Gabler, by Henrik Ibsen + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HEDDA GABLER *** + +***** This file should be named 4093.txt or 4093.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/4/0/9/4093/ + +Produced by Douglas Levy, for Nikki + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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There is little or no +prospect of my being able to complete it in July." Ibsen did not +leave Munich at all that season. On October 30 he wrote: "At present +I am utterly engrossed in a new play. Not one leisure hour have I +had for several months." Three weeks later (November 20) he wrote +to his French translator, Count Prozor: "My new play is finished; the +manuscript went off to Copenhagen the day before yesterday. . . . It +produces a curious feeling of emptiness to be thus suddenly separated +from a work which has occupied one's time and thoughts for several +months, to the exclusion of all else. But it is a good thing, too, +to have done with it. The constant intercourse with the fictitious +personages was beginning to make me quite nervous." To the same +correspondent he wrote on December 4: "The title of the play is +_Hedda Gabler_. My intention in giving it this name was to indicate +that Hedda, as a personality, is to be regarded rather as her father's +daughter than as her husband's wife. It was not my desire to deal in +this play with so-called problems. What I principally wanted to do +was to depict human beings, human emotions, and human destinies, upon +a groundwork of certain of the social conditions and principles of +the present day." + +So far we read the history of the play in the official +"Correspondence."(1) Some interesting glimpses into the poet's moods +during the period between the completion of _The Lady from the Sea_ +and the publication of _Hedda Gabler_ are to be found in the series +of letters to Fraulein Emilie Bardach, of Vienna, published by Dr. +George Brandes.(2) This young lady Ibsen met at Gossensass in the +Tyrol in the autumn of 1889. The record of their brief friendship +belongs to the history of _The Master Builder_ rather than to that of +_Hedda Gabler_, but the allusions to his work in his letters to her +during the winter of 1889 demand some examination. + +So early as October 7, 1889, he writes to her: "A new poem begins to +dawn in me. I will execute it this winter, and try to transfer to it +the bright atmosphere of the summer. But I feel that it will end in +sadness--such is my nature." Was this "dawning" poem _Hedda Gabler_? +Or was it rather _The Master Builder_ that was germinating in his +mind? Who shall say? The latter hypothesis seems the more probable, +for it is hard to believe that at any stage in the incubation of +_Hedda Gabler_ he can have conceived it as even beginning in gaiety. +A week later, however, he appears to have made up his mind that the +time had not come for the poetic utilisation of his recent experiences. +He writes on October 15: "Here I sit as usual at my writing-table. +Now I would fain work, but am unable to. My fancy, indeed, is very +active. But it always wanders awayours. I cannot repress my summer +memories--nor do I wish to. I live through my experience again and +again and yet again. To transmute it all into a poem, I find, in the +meantime, impossible." Clearly, then, he felt that his imagination +ought to have been engaged on some theme having no relation to his +summer experiences--the theme, no doubt, of _Hedda Gabler_. In his +next letter, dated October 29, he writes: "Do not be troubled because +I cannot, in the meantime, create (_dichten_). In reality I am for +ever creating, or, at any rate, dreaming of something which, when in +the fulness of time it ripens, will reveal itself as a creation +(_Dichtung_)." On November 19 he says: "I am very busily occupied +with preparations for my new poem. I sit almost the whole day at my +writing-table. Go out only in the evening for a little while." The +five following letters contain no allusion to the play; but on +September 18, 1890, he wrote: "My wife and son are at present at +Riva, on the Lake of Garda, and will probably remain there until the +middle of October, or even longer. Thus I am quite alone here, and +cannot get away. The new play on which I am at present engaged will +probably not be ready until November, though I sit at my writing- +table daily, and almost the whole day long." + +Here ends the history of _Hedda Gabler_, so far as the poet's letters +carry us. Its hard clear outlines, and perhaps somewhat bleak +atmosphere, seem to have resulted from a sort of reaction against +the sentimental "dreamery" begotten of his Gossensass experiences. +He sought refuge in the chill materialism of Hedda from the ardent +transcendentalism of Hilda, whom he already heard knocking at the +door. He was not yet in the mood to deal with her on the plane of +poetry.(3) + +_Hedda Gabler_ was published in Copenhagen on December 16, 1890. +This was the first of Ibsen's plays to be translated from proof- +sheets and published in England and America almost simultaneously +with its first appearance in Scandinavia. The earliest theatrical +performance took place at the Residenz Theater, Munich, on the last +day of January 1891, in the presence of the poet, Frau Conrad-Ramlo +playing the title-part. The Lessing Theater, Berlin, followed suit +on February 10. Not till February 25 was the play seen in Copenhagen, +with Fru Hennings as Hedda. On the following night it was given for +the first time in Christiania, the Norwegian Hedda being Froken +Constance Bruun. It was this production which the poet saw when he +visited the Christiania Theater for the first time after his return +to Norway, August 28, 1891. It would take pages to give even the +baldest list of the productions and revivals of _Hedda Gabler_ in +Scandinavia and Germany, where it has always ranked among Ibsen's +most popular works. The admirable production of the play by Miss +Elizabeth Robins and Miss Marion Lea, at the Vaudeville Theatre, +London, April 20, 1891, may rank as the second great step towards the +popularisation of Ibsen in England, the first being the Charrington- +Achurch production of _A Doll's House_ in 1889. Miss Robins +afterwards repeated her fine performance of Hedda many times, in +London, in the English provinces, and in New York. The character has +also been acted in London by Eleonora Duse, and as I write (March, 5, +1907) by Mrs. Patrick Campbell, at the Court Theatre. In Australia +and America, Hedda has frequently been acted by Miss Nance O'Neill +and other actresses--quite recently by a Russian actress, Madame Alla +Nazimova, who (playing in English) seems to have made a notable +success both in this part and in Nora. The first French Hedda Gabler +was Mlle. Marthe Brandes, who played the part at the Vaudeville +Theatre, Paris, on December 17, 1891, the performance being introduced +by a lecture by M. Jules Lemaitre. In Holland, in Italy, in Russia, +the play has been acted times without number. In short (as might +easily have been foretold) it has rivalled _A Doll's House_ in world- +wide popularity. + +It has been suggested,(4) I think without sufficient ground, that Ibsen +deliberately conceived _Hedda Gabler_ as an "international" play, and +that the scene is really the "west end" of any European city. To me +it seems quite clear that Ibsen had Christiania in mind, and the +Christiania of a somewhat earlier period than the 'nineties. The +electric cars, telephones, and other conspicuous factors in the life +of a modern capital are notably absent from the play. There is no +electric light in Secretary Falk's villa. It is still the habit for +ladies to return on foot from evening parties, with gallant swains +escorting them. This "suburbanism," which so distressed the London +critics of 1891, was characteristic of the Christiania Ibsen himself +had known in the 'sixties--the Christiania of _Love's Comedy_--rather +than of the greatly extended and modernised city of the end of the +century. Moreover Lovborg's allusions to the fiord, and the suggested +picture of Sheriff Elvsted, his family and his avocations are all +distinctively Norwegian. The truth seems to be very simple--the +environment and the subsidiary personages are all thoroughly national, +but Hedda herself is an "international" type, a product of civilisation +by no means peculiar to Norway. + +We cannot point to any individual model or models who "sat to" Ibsen +for the character of Hedda.(5) The late Grant Allen declared that +Hedda was "nothing more nor less than the girl we take down to dinner +in London nineteen times out of twenty"; in which case Ibsen must +have suffered from a superfluidity of models, rather than from any +difficulty in finding one. But the fact is that in this, as in all +other instances, the word "model" must be taken in a very different +sense from that in which it is commonly used in painting. Ibsen +undoubtedly used models for this trait and that, but never for a +whole figure. If his characters can be called portraits at all, they +are composite portraits. Even when it seems pretty clear that the +initial impulse towards the creation of a particular character came +from some individual, the original figure is entirely transmuted in +the process of harmonisation with the dramatic scheme. We need not, +therefore, look for a definite prototype of Hedda; but Dr. Brandes +shows that two of that lady's exploits were probably suggested by +the anecdotic history of the day. + +Ibsen had no doubt heard how the wife of a well-known Norwegian +composer, in a fit of raging jealousy excited by her husband's +prolonged absence from home, burnt the manuscript of a symphony +which he had just finished. The circumstances under which Hedda +burns Lovborg's manuscript are, of course, entirely different and +infinitely more dramatic; but here we have merely another instance +of the dramatisation or "poetisation" of the raw material of life. +Again, a still more painful incident probably came to his knowledge +about the same time. A beautiful and very intellectual woman was +married to a well-known man who had been addicted to drink, but had +entirely conquered the vice. One day a mad whim seized her to put +his self-mastery and her power over him to the test. As it happened +to be his birthday, she rolled into his study a small keg of brandy, +and then withdrew. She returned some time after wards to find that +he had broached the keg, and lay insensible on the floor. In this +anecdote we cannot but recognise the germ, not only of Hedda's +temptation of Lovborg, but of a large part of her character. + +"Thus," says Dr. Brandes, "out of small and scattered traits of +reality Ibsen fashioned his close-knit and profoundly thought-out +works of art." + +For the character of Eilert Lovborg, again, Ibsen seem unquestionably +to have borrowed several traits from a definite original. A young +Danish man of letters, whom Dr. Brandes calls Holm, was an +enthusiastic admirer of Ibsen, and came to be on very friendly terms +with him. One day Ibsen was astonished to receive, in Munich, a +parcel addressed from Berlin by this young man, containing, without +a word of explanation, a packet of his (Ibsen's) letters, and a +photograph which he had presented to Holm. Ibsen brooded and brooded +over the incident, and at last came to the conclusion that the young +man had intended to return her letters and photograph to a young lady +to whom he was known to be attached, and had in a fit of aberration +mixed up the two objects of his worship. Some time after, Holm +appeared at Ibsen's rooms. He talked quite rationally, but professed +to have no knowledge whatever of the letter-incident, though he +admitted the truth of Ibsen's conjecture that the "belle dame sans +merci" had demanded the return of her letters and portrait. Ibsen +was determined to get at the root of the mystery; and a little inquiry +into his young friend's habits revealed the fact that he broke his +fast on a bottle of port wine, consumed a bottle of Rhine wine at +lunch, of Burgundy at dinner, and finished off the evening with one +or two more bottles of port. Then he heard, too, how, in the course +of a night's carouse, Holm had lost the manuscript of a book; and in +these traits he saw the outline of the figure of Eilert Lovborg. + +Some time elapsed, and again Ibsen received a postal packet from Holm. +This one contained his will, in which Ibsen figured as his residuary +legatee. But many other legatees were mentioned in the instrument-- +all of them ladies, such as Fraulein Alma Rothbart, of Bremen, and +Fraulein Elise Kraushaar, of Berlin. The bequests to these meritorious +spinsters were so generous that their sum considerably exceeded the +amount of the testator's property. Ibsen gently but firmly declined +the proffered inheritance; but Holm's will no doubt suggested to him +the figure of that red-haired "Mademoiselle Diana," who is heard of +but not seen in _Hedda Gabler_, and enabled him to add some further +traits to the portraiture of Lovborg. When the play appeared, Holm +recognised himself with glee in the character of the bibulous man of +letters, and thereafter adopted "Eilert Lovborg" as his pseudonym. I +do not, therefore, see why Dr. Brandes should suppress his real name; +but I willingly imitate him in erring on the side of discretion. The +poor fellow died several years ago. + +Some critics have been greatly troubled as to the precise meaning of +Hedda's fantastic vision of Lovborg "with vine-leaves in his hair." +Surely this is a very obvious image or symbol of the beautiful, the +ideal, aspect of bacchic elation and revelry. Antique art, or I am +much mistaken, shows us many figures of Dionysus himself and his +followers with vine-leaves entwined their hair. To Ibsen's mind, at +any rate, the image had long been familiar. In _Peer Gynt_ (Act iv. +sc. 8), when Peer, having carried off Anitra, finds himself in a +particularly festive mood, he cries: "Were there vine-leaves around, +I would garland my brow." Again, in _Emperor and Galilean_ (Pt. ii. +Act 1) where Julian, in the procession of Dionysus, impersonates the +god himself, it is directed that he shall wear a wreath of vine- +leaves. Professor Dietrichson relates that among the young artists +whose society Ibsen frequented during his first years in Rome, it +was customary, at their little festivals, for the revellers to deck +themselves in this fashion. But the image is so obvious that there +is no need to trace it to any personal experience. The attempt to +place Hedda's vine-leaves among Ibsen's obscurities is an example of +the firm resolution not to understand which animated the criticism +of the 'nineties. + +Dr. Brandes has dealt very severely with the character of Eilert +Lovborg, alleging that we cannot believe in the genius attributed +to him. But where is he described as a genius? The poet represents +him as a very able student of sociology; but that is quite a different +thing from attributing to him such genius as must necessarily shine +forth in every word he utters. Dr. Brandes, indeed, declines to +believe even in his ability as a sociologist, on the ground that it +is idle to write about the social development of the future. "To +our prosaic minds," he says, "it may seem as if the most sensible +utterance on the subject is that of the fool of the play: 'The future! +Good heavens, we know nothing of the future.'" The best retort to +this criticism is that which Eilert himself makes: "There's a thing +or two to be said about it all the same." The intelligent forecasting +of the future (as Mr. H. G. Wells has shown) is not only clearly +distinguishable from fantastic Utopianism, but is indispensable to +any large statesmanship or enlightened social activity. With very +real and very great respect for Dr. Brandes, I cannot think that he +has been fortunate in his treatment of Lovborg's character. It has +been represented as an absurdity that he would think of reading +abstracts from his new book to a man like Tesman, whom he despises. +But though Tesman is a ninny, he is, as Hedda says, a "specialist"-- +he is a competent, plodding student of his subject. Lovborg may +quite naturally wish to see how his new method, or his excursion +into a new field, strikes the average scholar of the Tesman type. +He is, in fact, "trying it on the dog"--neither an unreasonable nor +an unusual proceeding. There is, no doubt, a certain improbability +in the way in which Lovborg is represented as carrying his manuscript +around, and especially in Mrs. Elvsted's production of his rough +draft from her pocket; but these are mechanical trifles, on which +only a niggling criticism would dream of laying stress. + +Of all Ibsen's works, _Hedda Gabler_ is the most detached, the most +objective--a character-study pure and simple. It is impossible--or +so it seems to me--to extract any sort of general idea from it. One +cannot even call it a satire, unless one is prepared to apply that +term to the record of a "case" in a work of criminology. Reverting +to Dumas's dictum that a play should contain "a painting, a judgment, +an ideal," we may say the _Hedda Gabler_ fulfils only the first of +these requirements. The poet does not even pass judgment on his +heroine: he simply paints her full-length portrait with scientific +impassivity. But what a portrait! How searching in insight, how +brilliant in colouring, how rich in detail! Grant Allen's remark, +above quoted, was, of course, a whimsical exaggeration; the Hedda +type is not so common as all that, else the world would quickly +come to an end. But particular traits and tendencies of the Hedda +type are very common in modern life, and not only among women. +Hyperaesthesia lies at the root of her tragedy. With a keenly +critical, relentlessly solvent intelligence, she combines a morbid +shrinking from all the gross and prosaic detail of the sensual life. +She has nothing to take her out of herself--not a single intellectual +interest or moral enthusiasm. She cherishes, in a languid way, a +petty social ambition; and even that she finds obstructed and +baffled. At the same time she learns that another woman has had +the courage to love and venture all, where she, in her cowardice, +only hankered and refrained. Her malign egoism rises up uncontrolled, +and calls to its aid her quick and subtle intellect. She ruins the +other woman's happiness, but in doing so incurs a danger from which +her sense of personal dignity revolts. Life has no such charm for +her that she cares to purchase it at the cost of squalid humiliation +and self-contempt. The good and the bad in her alike impel her to +have done with it all; and a pistol-shot ends what is surely one of +the most poignant character-tragedies in literature. Ibsen's brain +never worked at higher pressure than in the conception and adjustment +of those "crowded hours" in which Hedda, tangled in the web of Will +and Circumstance, struggles on till she is too weary to struggle any +more. + +It may not be superfluous to note that the "a" in "Gabler" should be +sounded long and full, like the "a" in "Garden"--NOT like the "a" in +"gable" or in "gabble." + + +W. A. + + + +FOOTNOTES. + +(1)Letters 214, 216, 217, 219. + +(2)In the Ibsen volume of _Die Literatur_ (Berlin). + +(3)Dr. Julius Elias (_Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December 1906, p. 1462) + makes the curious assertion that the character of Thea Elvsted was + in part borrowed from this "Gossensasser Hildetypus." It is hard to + see how even Gibes' ingenuity could distil from the same flower two + such different essences as Thea and Hilda. + +(4)See article by Herman Bang in _Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December + 1906, p. 1495. + +(5)Dr. Brahm (_Neue deutsche Rundschau_, December 1906, P. 1422) says + that after the first performance of _Hedda Gabler_ in Berlin Ibsen + confided to him that the character had been suggested by a German + lady whom he met in Munich, and who did not shoot, but poisoned + herself. Nothing more seems to be known of this lady. See, too, + an article by Julius Elias in the same magazine, p. 1460. + + + + +Transcriber's Note: + +The inclusion or ommision of commas between repeated words ("well, +well"; "there there", etc.) in this etext is reproduced faithfully +from both the 1914 and 1926 editions of _Hedda Gabler_, copyright +1907 by Charles Scribner's Sons. Modern editions of the same +translation use the commas consistently throughout. -D.L. + + + + + + +HEDDA GABLER. + +PLAY IN FOUR ACTS. + + + +CHARACTERS. + + + GEORGE TESMAN.* + HEDDA TESMAN, his wife. + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, his aunt. + MRS. ELVSTED. + JUDGE** BRACK. + EILERT LOVBORG. + BERTA, servant at the Tesmans. + + *Tesman, whose Christian name in the original is "Jorgen," is + described as "stipendiat i kulturhistorie"--that is to say, the + holder of a scholarship for purposes of research into the History + of Civilisation. + + **In the original "Assessor." + + + The scene of the action is Tesman's villa, in the west end + of Christiania. + + + + +ACT FIRST. + + + A spacious, handsome, and tastefully furnished drawing room, + decorated in dark colours. In the back, a wide doorway with + curtains drawn back, leading into a smaller room decorated + in the same style as the drawing-room. In the right-hand + wall of the front room, a folding door leading out to the + hall. In the opposite wall, on the left, a glass door, also + with curtains drawn back. Through the panes can be seen + part of a verandah outside, and trees covered with autumn + foliage. An oval table, with a cover on it, and surrounded + by chairs, stands well forward. In front, by the wall on + the right, a wide stove of dark porcelain, a high-backed + arm-chair, a cushioned foot-rest, and two footstools. A + settee, with a small round table in front of it, fills the + upper right-hand corner. In front, on the left, a little + way from the wall, a sofa. Further back than the glass + door, a piano. On either side of the doorway at the back + a whatnot with terra-cotta and majolica ornaments.-- + Against the back wall of the inner room a sofa, with a + table, and one or two chairs. Over the sofa hangs the + portrait of a handsome elderly man in a General's uniform. + Over the table a hanging lamp, with an opal glass shade.--A + number of bouquets are arranged about the drawing-room, in + vases and glasses. Others lie upon the tables. The floors + in both rooms are covered with thick carpets.--Morning light. + The sun shines in through the glass door. + + MISS JULIANA TESMAN, with her bonnet on a carrying a parasol, + comes in from the hall, followed by BERTA, who carries a + bouquet wrapped in paper. MISS TESMAN is a comely and pleasant- + looking lady of about sixty-five. She is nicely but simply + dressed in a grey walking-costume. BERTA is a middle-aged + woman of plain and rather countrified appearance. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Stops close to the door, listens, and says softly:] Upon my word, I +don't believe they are stirring yet! + + +BERTA. + +[Also softly.] I told you so, Miss. Remember how late the steamboat +got in last night. And then, when they got home!--good Lord, what a +lot the young mistress had to unpack before she could get to bed. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well--let them have their sleep out. But let us see that they +get a good breath of the fresh morning air when they do appear. + [She goes to the glass door and throws it open. + + +BERTA. + +[Beside the table, at a loss what to do with the bouquet in her hand.] +I declare there isn't a bit of room left. I think I'll put it down +here, Miss. [She places it on the piano. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +So you've got a new mistress now, my dear Berta. Heaven knows it was +a wrench to me to part with you. + + +BERTA. + +[On the point of weeping.] And do you think it wasn't hard for me, +too, Miss? After all the blessed years I've been with you and Miss +Rina.(1) + + +MISS TESMAN. + +We must make the best of it, Berta. There was nothing else to be +done. George can't do without you, you see-he absolutely can't. +He has had you to look after him ever since he was a little boy. + + +BERTA. + +Ah but, Miss Julia, I can't help thinking of Miss Rina lying helpless +at home there, poor thing. And with only that new girl too! She'll +never learn to take proper care of an invalid. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, I shall manage to train her. And of course, you know, I shall +take most of it upon myself. You needn't be uneasy about my poor +sister, my dear Berta. + + +BERTA. + +Well, but there's another thing, Miss. I'm so mortally afraid I +shan't be able to suit the young mistress. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh well--just at first there may be one or two things--- + + +BERTA. + +Most like she'll be terrible grand in her ways. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well, you can't wonder at that--General Gabler's daughter! Think of +the sort of life she was accustomed to in her father's time. Don't +you remember how we used to see her riding down the road along with +the General? In that long black habit--and with feathers in her hat? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, indeed--I remember well enough!--But, good Lord, I should never +have dreamt in those days that she and Master George would make a +match of it. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Nor I.--But by-the-bye, Berta--while I think of it: in future you +mustn't say Master George. You must say Dr. Tesman. + + +BERTA. + +Yes, the young mistress spoke of that too--last night--the moment +they set foot in the house. Is it true then, Miss? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, indeed it is. Only think, Berta--some foreign university has +made him a doctor--while he has been abroad, you understand. I +hadn't heard a word about it, until he told me himself upon the pier. + + +BERTA. + +Well well, he's clever enough for anything, he is. But I didn't think +he'd have gone in for doctoring people. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No no, it's not that sort of doctor he is. [Nods significantly.] +But let me tell you, we may have to call him something still grander +before long. + + +BERTA. + +You don't day so! What can that be, Miss? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Smiling.] H'm--wouldn't you like to know! [With emotion.] Ah, +dear dear--if my poor brother could only look up from his grave now, +and see what his little boy has grown into! [Looks around.] But +bless me, Berta--why have you done this? Taken the chintz covers off +all the furniture. + + +BERTA. + +The mistress told me to. She can't abide covers on the chairs, she +says. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Are they going to make this their everyday sitting-room then? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, that's what I understood--from the mistress. Master George--the +doctor--he said nothing. + + + GEORGE TESMAN comes from the right into the inner room, + humming to himself, and carrying an unstrapped empty + portmanteau. He is a middle-sized, young-looking man of + thirty-three, rather stout, with a round, open, cheerful + face, fair hair and beard. He wears spectacles, and is + somewhat carelessly dressed in comfortable indoor clothes. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Good morning, good morning, George. + + +TESMAN. + +[In the doorway between the rooms.] Aunt Julia! Dear Aunt Julia! +[Goes up to her and shakes hands warmly.] Come all this way--so +early! Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why, of course I had to come and see how you were getting on. + + +TESMAN. + +In spite of your having had no proper night's rest? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, that makes no difference to me. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, I suppose you got home all right from the pier? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, quite safely, thank goodness. Judge Brack was good enough to +see me right to my door. + + +TESMAN. + +We were so sorry we couldn't give you a seat in the carriage. But +you saw what a pile of boxes Hedda had to bring with her. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, she had certainly plenty of boxes. + + +BERTA. + +[To TESMAN.] Shall I go in and see if there's anything I can do for +the mistress? + + +TESMAN. + +No thank you, Berta--you needn't. She said she would ring if she +wanted anything. + + +BERTA. + +[Going towards the right.] Very well. + + +TESMAN. + +But look here--take this portmanteau with you. + + +BERTA. + +[Taking it.] I'll put it in the attic. + [She goes out by the hall door. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy, Auntie--I had the whole of that portmanteau chock full of +copies of the documents. You wouldn't believe how much I have picked +up from all the archives I have been examining--curious old details +that no one has had any idea of--- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, you don't seem to have wasted you time on your wedding trip, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +No, that I haven't. But do take off your bonnet, Auntie. Look here! +Let me untie the strings--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[While he does so.] Well well--this is just as if you were still at +home with us. + + +TESMAN. + +[With the bonnet in his hand, looks at it from all sides.] Why, what +a gorgeous bonnet you've been investing in! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I bought it on Hedda's account. + + +TESMAN. + +On Hedda's account? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, so that Hedda needn't be ashamed of me if we happened to go out +together. + + +TESMAN. + +[Patting her cheek.] You always think of everything, Aunt Julia. +[Lays the bonnet on a chair beside the table.] And now, look here-- +suppose we sit comfortably on the sofa and have a little chat, till +Hedda comes. + [They seat themselves. She places her parasol in the corner + of the sofa. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Takes both his hands and looks at him.] What a delight it is to +have you again, as large as life, before my very eyes, George! My +George--my poor brother's own boy! + + +TESMAN. + +And it's a delight for me, too, to see you again, Aunt Julia! You, +who have been father and mother in one to me. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, I know you will always keep a place in your heart for your +old aunts. + + +TESMAN. + +And what about Aunt Rina? No improvement--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, no--we can scarcely look for any improvement in her case, poor +thing. There she lies, helpless, as she has lain for all these years. +But heaven grant I may not lose her yet awhile! For if I did, I don't +know what I should make of my life, George--especially now that I +haven't you to look after any more. + + +TESMAN. + +[Patting her back.] There there there---! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Suddenly changing her tone.] And to think that here are you a married +man, George!--And that you should be the one to carry off Hedda Gabler +--the beautiful Hedda Gabler! Only think of it--she, that was so +beset with admirers! + + +TESMAN. + +[Hums a little and smiles complacently.] Yes, I fancy I have several +good friends about town who would like to stand in my shoes--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And then this fine long wedding-tour you have had! More than five-- +nearly six months--- + + +TESMAN. + +Well, for me it has been a sort of tour of research as well. I have +had to do so much grubbing among old records--and to read no end of +books too, Auntie. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, I suppose so. [More confidentially, and lowering her voice +a little.] But listen now, George,--have you nothing--nothing special +to tell me? + + +TESMAN. + +As to our journey? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +No, I don't know of anything except what I have told you in my +letters. I had a doctor's degree conferred on me--but that I told +you yesterday. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, you did. But what I mean is--haven't you any--any-- +expectations---? + + +TESMAN. + +Expectations? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why you know, George--I'm your old auntie! + + +TESMAN. + +Why, of course I have expectations. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Ah! + + +TESMAN. + +I have every expectation of being a professor one of these days. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh yes, a professor--- + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed, I may say I am certain of it. But my dear Auntie--you know +all about that already! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Laughing to herself.] Yes, of course I do. You are quite right +there. [Changing the subject.] But we were talking about your +journey. It must have cost a great deal of money, George? + + +Tesman. + +Well, you see--my handsome travelling-scholarship went a good way. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +But I can't understand how you can have made it go far enough for two. + + +TESMAN. + +No, that's not easy to understand--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And especially travelling with a lady--they tell me that makes it ever +so much more expensive. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, of course--it makes it a little more expensive. But Hedda had to +have this trip, Auntie! She really had to. Nothing else would have +done. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No no, I suppose not. A wedding-tour seems to be quite indispensable +nowadays.--But tell me now--have you gone thoroughly over the house +yet? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, you may be sure I have. I have been afoot ever since daylight. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And what do you think of it all? + + +TESMAN. + +I'm delighted! Quite delighted! Only I can't think what we are to +do with the two empty rooms between this inner parlour and Hedda's +bedroom. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Oh my dear George, I daresay you may find some use for +them--in the course of time. + + +TESMAN. + +Why of course you are quite right, Aunt Julia! You mean as my library +increases--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, quite so, my dear boy. It was your library I was thinking of. + + +TESMAN. + +I am specially pleased on Hedda's account. Often and often, before +we were engaged, she said that she would never care to live anywhere +but in Secretary Falk's villa.(2) + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, it was lucky that this very house should come into the market, +just after you had started. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, Aunt Julia, the luck was on our side, wasn't it--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +But the expense, my dear George! You will find it very expensive, +all this. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks at her, a little cast down.] Yes, I suppose I shall, Aunt! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, frightfully! + + +TESMAN. + +How much do you think? In round numbers?--Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, I can't even guess until all the accounts come in. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, fortunately, Judge Brack has secured the most favourable terms +for me, so he said in a letter to Hedda. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, don't be uneasy, my dear boy.--Besides, I have given security +for the furniture and all the carpets. + + +TESMAN. + +Security? You? My dear Aunt Julia--what sort of security could you +give? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I have given a mortgage on our annuity. + + +TESMAN. + +[Jumps up.] What! On your--and Aunt Rina's annuity! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, I knew of no other plan, you see. + + +TESMAN. + +[Placing himself before her.] Have you gone out of your senses, +Auntie? Your annuity--it's all that you and Aunt Rina have to +live upon. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well--don't get so excited about it. It's only a matter of +form you know--Judge Brack assured me of that. It was he that was +kind enough to arrange the whole affair for me. A mere matter of +form, he said. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that may be all very well. But nevertheless--- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +You will have your own salary to depend upon now. And, good heavens, +even if we did have to pay up a little---! To eke things out a bit +at the start---! Why, it would be nothing but a pleasure to us. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh Auntie--will you never be tired of making sacrifices for me! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Rises and lays her hand on his shoulders.] Have I any other happiness +in this world except to smooth your way for you, my dear boy. You, +who have had neither father nor mother to depend on. And now we have +reached the goal, George! Things have looked black enough for us, +sometimes; but, thank heaven, now you have nothing to fear. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, it is really marvellous how every thing has turned out for the +best. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And the people who opposed you--who wanted to bar the way for you-- +now you have them at your feet. They have fallen, George. Your most +dangerous rival--his fall was the worst.--And now he has to lie on +the bed he has made for himself--poor misguided creature. + + +TESMAN. + +Have you heard anything of Eilert? Since I went away, I mean. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Only that he is said to have published a new book. + + +TESMAN. + +What! Eilert Lovborg! Recently--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, so they say. Heaven knows whether it can be worth anything! Ah, +when your new book appears--that will be another story, George! What +is it to be about? + + +TESMAN. + +It will deal with the domestic industries of Brabant during the +Middle Ages. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Fancy--to be able to write on such a subject as that! + + +TESMAN. + +However, it may be some time before the book is ready. I have all +these collections to arrange first, you see. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, collecting and arranging--no one can beat you at that. There +you are my poor brother's own son. + + +TESMAN. + +I am looking forward eagerly to setting to work at it; especially now +that I have my own delightful home to work in. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +And, most of all, now that you have got the wife of your heart, my +dear George. + + +TESMAN. + +[Embracing her.] Oh yes, yes, Aunt Julia! Hedda--she is the best +part of it all! I believe I hear her coming--eh? + + + HEDDA enters from the left through the inner room. Her face + and figure show refinement and distinction. Her complexion + is pale and opaque. Her steel-grey eyes express a cold, + unruffled repose. Her hair is of an agreeable brown, but + not particularly abundant. She is dressed in a tasteful, + somewhat loose-fitting morning gown. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Going to meet HEDDA.] Good morning, my dear Hedda! Good morning, +and a hearty welcome! + + +HEDDA. + +[Holds out her hand.] Good morning, dear Miss Tesman! So early a +call! That is kind of you. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[With some embarrassment.] Well--has the bride slept well in her +new home? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, thanks. Passably. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Passably! Come, that's good, Hedda! You were sleeping +like a stone when I got up. + + +HEDDA. + +Fortunately. Of course one has always to accustom one's self to new +surroundings, Miss Tesman--little by little. [Looking towards the +left.] Oh, there the servant has gone and opened the veranda door, +and let in a whole flood of sunshine. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Going towards the door.] Well, then we will shut it. + + +HEDDA. + +No no, not that! Tesman, please draw the curtains. That will give a +softer light. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the door.] All right--all right.--There now, Hedda, now you have +both shade and fresh air. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, fresh air we certainly must have, with all these stacks of +flowers---. But--won't you sit down, Miss Tesman? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No, thank you. Now that I have seen that everything is all right +here--thank heaven!--I must be getting home again. My sister is +lying longing for me, poor thing. + + +TESMAN. + +Give her my very best love, Auntie; and say I shall look in and see +her later in the day. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, I'll be sure to tell her. But by-the-bye, George--[Feeling +in her dress pocket]--I had almost forgotten--I have something for +you here. + + +TESMAN. + +What is it, Auntie? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Produces a flat parcel wrapped in newspaper and hands it to him.] +Look here, my dear boy. + + +TESMAN. +[Opening the parcel.] Well, I declare!--Have you really saved them +for me, Aunt Julia! Hedda! isn't this touching--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Beside the whatnot on the right.] Well, what is it? + + +TESMAN. + +My old morning-shoes! My slippers. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed. I remember you often spoke of them while we were abroad. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I missed them terribly. [Goes up to her.] Now you shall see +them, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Going towards the stove.] Thanks, I really don't care about it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Following her.] Only think--ill as she was, Aunt Rina embroidered +these for me. Oh you can't think how many associations cling to them. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the table.] Scarcely for me. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Of course not for Hedda, George. + +TESMAN. + +Well, but now that she belongs to the family, I thought--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Interrupting.] We shall never get on with this servant, Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Not get on with Berta? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, dear, what puts that in your head? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Pointing.] Look there! She has left her old bonnet lying about on +a chair. + +TESMAN. + +[In consternation, drops the slippers on the floor.] Why, Hedda--- + + +HEDDA. + +Just fancy, if any one should come in and see it! + + +TESMAN. + +But Hedda--that's Aunt Julia's bonnet. + + +HEDDA. + +Is it! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Taking up the bonnet.] Yes, indeed it's mine. And, what's more, +it's not old, Madam Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I really did not look closely at it, Miss Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Trying on the bonnet.] Let me tell you it's the first time I have +worn it--the very first time. + + +TESMAN. + +And a very nice bonnet it is too--quite a beauty! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, it's no such great things, George. [Looks around her.] My +parasol---? Ah, here. [Takes it.] For this is mine too--[mutters] +--not Berta's. + + +TESMAN. + +A new bonnet and a new parasol! Only think, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Very handsome indeed. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, isn't it? Eh? But Auntie, take a good look at Hedda before you +go! See how handsome she is! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, my dear boy, there's nothing new in that. Hedda was always lovely. + [She nods and goes toward the right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Following.] Yes, but have you noticed what splendid condition she +is in? How she has filled out on the journey? + + +HEDDA. + +[Crossing the room.] Oh, do be quiet---! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Who has stopped and turned.] Filled out? + + +TESMAN. + +Of course you don't notice it so much now that she has that dress on. +But I, who can see--- + + +HEDDA. + +[At the glass door, impatiently.] Oh, you can't see anything. + + +TESMAN. + +It must be the mountain air in the Tyrol--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly, interrupting.] I am exactly as I was when I started. + + +TESMAN. + +So you insist; but I'm quite certain you are not. Don't you agree +with me, Auntie? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Who has been gazing at her with folded hands.] Hedda is lovely-- +lovely--lovely. [Goes up to her, takes her head between both hands, +draws it downwards, and kisses her hair.] God bless and preserve +Hedda Tesman--for George's sake. + + +HEDDA. + +[Gently freeing herself.] Oh--! Let me go. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[In quiet emotion.] I shall not let a day pass without coming to see +you. + + +TESMAN. + +No you won't, will you, Auntie? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Good-bye--good-bye! + [She goes out by the hall door. TESMAN accompanies her. The + door remains half open. TESMAN can be heard repeating his + message to Aunt Rina and his thanks for the slippers. + [In the meantime, HEDDA walks about the room, raising her arms + and clenching her hands as if in desperation. Then she flings + back the curtains from the glass door, and stands there looking + out. + [Presently, TESMAN returns and closes the door behind him. + + +TESMAN. + +[Picks up the slippers from the floor.] What are you looking at, +Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Once more calm and mistress of herself.] I am only looking at the +leaves. They are so yellow--so withered. + + +TESMAN. + +[Wraps up the slippers and lays them on the table.] Well, you see, +we are well into September now. + + +HEDDA. + +[Again restless.] Yes, to think of it!--already in--in September. + + +TESMAN. + +Don't you think Aunt Julia's manner was strange, dear? Almost solemn? +Can you imagine what was the matter with her? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I scarcely know her, you see. Is she not often like that? + + +TESMAN. + +No, not as she was to-day. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaving the glass door.] Do you think she was annoyed about the +bonnet? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, scarcely at all. Perhaps a little, just at the moment--- + + +HEDDA. + +But what an idea, to pitch her bonnet about in the drawing-room! No +one does that sort of thing. + + +TESMAN. + +Well you may be sure Aunt Julia won't do it again. + + +HEDDA. + +In any case, I shall manage to make my peace with her. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, my dear, good Hedda, if you only would. + + +HEDDA. + +When you call this afternoon, you might invite her to spend the +evening here. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that I will. And there's one thing more you could do that would +delight her heart. + + +HEDDA. + +What is it? + + +TESMAN. + +If you could only prevail on yourself to say _du_(3) to her. For my +sake, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no, Tesman--you really mustn't ask that of me. I have told you so +already. I shall try to call her "Aunt"; and you must be satisfied +with that. + + +TESMAN. + +Well well. Only I think now that you belong to the family, you--- + + +HEDDA. + +H'm--I can't in the least see why--- + [She goes up towards the middle doorway. + + +TESMAN. + +[After a pause.] Is there anything the matter with you, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I'm only looking at my old piano. It doesn't go at all well with all +the other things. + + +TESMAN. + +The first time I draw my salary, we'll see about exchanging it. + + +HEDDA. + +No, no--no exchanging. I don't want to part with it. Suppose we put +it there in the inner room, and then get another here in its place. +When it's convenient, I mean. + + +TESMAN. + +[A little taken aback.] Yes--of course we could do that. + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes up the bouquet from the piano.] These flowers were not here +last night when we arrived. + + +TESMAN. + +Aunt Julia must have brought them for you. + + +HEDDA. + +[Examining the bouquet.] A visiting-card. [Takes it out and reads:] +"Shall return later in the day." Can you guess whose card it is? + + +TESMAN. + +No. Whose? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +The name is "Mrs. Elvsted." + + +TESMAN. + +Is it really? Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Miss Rysing that was. + + +HEDDA. + +Exactly. The girl with the irritating hair, that she was always +showing off. An old flame of yours I've been told. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing.] Oh, that didn't last long; and it was before I met you, +Hedda. But fancy her being in town! + + +HEDDA. + +It's odd that she should call upon us. I have scarcely seen her since +we left school. + + +TESMAN. + +I haven't see her either for--heaven knows how long. I wonder how +she can endure to live in such an out-of-the way hole--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[After a moment's thought, says suddenly.] Tell me, Tesman--isn't it +somewhere near there that he--that--Eilert Lovborg is living? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, he is somewhere in that part of the country. + + + BERTA enters by the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +That lady, ma'am, that brought some flowers a little while ago, is +here again. [Pointing.] The flowers you have in your hand, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, is she? Well, please show her in. + + + BERTA opens the door for MRS. ELVSTED, and goes out herself. + --MRS. ELVSTED is a woman of fragile figure, with pretty, + soft features. Her eyes are light blue, large, round, and + somewhat prominent, with a startled, inquiring expression. + Her hair is remarkably light, almost flaxen, and unusually + abundant and wavy. She is a couple of years younger than + HEDDA. She wears a dark visiting dress, tasteful, but not + quite in the latest fashion. + + +HEDDA. + +[Receives her warmly.] How do you do, my dear Mrs. Elvsted? It's +delightful to see you again. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Nervously, struggling for self-control.] Yes, it's a very long time +since we met. + + +TESMAN. + +[Gives her his hand.] And we too--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks for your lovely flowers--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, not at all---. I would have come straight here yesterday +afternoon; but I heard that you were away--- + + +TESMAN. + +Have you just come to town? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I arrived yesterday, about midday. Oh, I was quite in despair when I +heard that you were not at home. + + +HEDDA. + +In despair! How so? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, my dear Mrs. Rysing--I mean Mrs. Elvsted--- + + +HEDDA. + +I hope that you are not in any trouble? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I am. And I don't know another living creature here that I can +turn to. + + +HEDDA. + +[Laying the bouquet on the table.] Come--let us sit here on the +sofa--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I am too restless to sit down. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh no, you're not. Come here. + [She draws MRS. ELVSTED down upon the sofa and sits at her side. + + +TESMAN. + +Well? What is it, Mrs. Elvsted---? + + +HEDDA. + +Has anything particular happened to you at home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes--and no. Oh--I am so anxious you should not misunderstand me--- + + +HEDDA. + +Then your best plan is to tell us the whole story, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +TESMAN. + +I suppose that's what you have come for--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes--of course it is. Well then, I must tell you--if you don't +already know--that Eilert Lovborg is in town, too. + + +HEDDA. + +Lovborg---! + + +TESMAN. + +What! Has Eilert Lovborg come back? Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Well well--I hear it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has been here a week already. Just fancy--a whole week! In this +terrible town, alone! With so many temptations on all sides. + + +HEDDA. + +But, my dear Mrs. Elvsted--how does he concern you so much? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at her with a startled air, and says rapidly.] He was the +children's tutor. + + +HEDDA. + +Your children's? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My husband's. I have none. + + +HEDDA. + +Your step-children's, then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +[Somewhat hesitatingly.] Then was he--I don't know how to express +it--was he--regular enough in his habits to be fit for the post? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +For the last two years his conduct has been irreproachable. + + +TESMAN. + +Has it indeed? Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +I hear it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Perfectly irreproachable, I assure you! In every respect. But all +the same--now that I know he is here--in this great town--and with a +large sum of money in his hands--I can't help being in mortal fear +for him. + + +TESMAN. + +Why did he not remain where he was? With you and your husband? Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +After his book was published he was too restless and unsettled to +remain with us. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, by-the-bye, Aunt Julia told me he had published a new book. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, a big book, dealing with the march of civilisation--in broad +outline, as it were. It came out about a fortnight ago. And +since it has sold so well, and been so much read--and made such a +sensation--- + + +TESMAN. + +Has it indeed? It must be something he has had lying by since his +better days. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Long ago, you mean? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he has written it all since he has been with us--within the last +year. + + +TESMAN. + +Isn't that good news, Hedda? Think of that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ah yes, if only it would last! + + +HEDDA. + +Have you seen him here in town? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, not yet. I have had the greatest difficulty in finding out his +address. But this morning I discovered it at last. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks searchingly at her.] Do you know, it seems to me a little odd +of your husband--h'm--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Starting nervously.] Of my husband! What? + + +HEDDA. + +That he should send you to town on such an errand--that he does not +come himself and look after his friend. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--my husband has no time. And besides, I--I had some +shopping to do. + + +HEDDA. + +[With a slight smile.] Ah, that is a different matter. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rising quickly and uneasily.] And now I beg and implore you, Mr. +Tesman--receive Eilert Lovborg kindly if he comes to you! And that +he is sure to do. You see you were such great friends in the old +days. And then you are interested in the same studies--the same +branch of science--so far as I can understand. + + +TESMAN. + +We used to be at any rate. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +That is why I beg so earnestly that you--you too--will keep a sharp +eye upon him. Oh, you will promise me that, Mr. Tesman--won't you? + + +TESMAN. + +With the greatest of pleasure, Mrs. Rysing--- + + +HEDDA. + +Elvsted. + + +TESMAN. + +I assure you I shall do all I possibly can for Eilert. You may rely +upon me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how very, very kind of you! [Presses his hands.] Thanks, thanks, +thanks! [Frightened.] You see, my husband is so very fond of him! + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising.] You ought to write to him, Tesman. Perhaps he may not care +to come to you of his own accord. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, perhaps it would be the right thing to do, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +And the sooner the better. Why not at once? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Imploringly.] Oh, if you only would! + + +TESMAN. + +I'll write this moment. Have you his address, Mrs.--Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. [Takes a slip of paper from her pocket, and hands it to him.] +Here it is. + + +TESMAN. + +Good, good. Then I'll go in--- [Looks about him.] By-the-bye,--my +slippers? Oh, here. [Takes the packet and is about to go. + + +HEDDA. + +Be sure you write him a cordial, friendly letter. And a good long +one too. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I will. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But please, please don't say a word to show that I have suggested it. + + +TESMAN. + +No, how could you think I would? Eh? + [He goes out to the right, through the inner room. + + +HEDDA. + +[Goes up to MRS. ELVSTED, smiles, and says in a low voice.] There! +We have killed two birds with one stone. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Could you not see that I wanted him to go? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, to write the letter--- + + +HEDDA. + +And that I might speak to you alone. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Confused.] About the same thing? + + +HEDDA. + +Precisely. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Apprehensively.] But there is nothing more, Mrs. Tesman! Absolutely +nothing! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, but there is. There is a great deal more--I can see that. +Sit here--and we'll have a cosy, confidential chat. + [She forces MRS. ELVSTED to sit in the easy-chair beside the + stove, and seats herself on one of the footstools. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Anxiously, looking at her watch.] But, my dear Mrs. Tesman--I was +really on the point of going. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, you can't be in such a hurry.--Well? Now tell me something about +your life at home. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, that is just what I care least to speak about. + + +HEDDA. + +But to me, dear---? Why, weren't we schoolfellows? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but you were in the class above me. Oh, how dreadfully afraid +of you I was then! + + +HEDDA. + +Afraid of me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, dreadfully. For when we met on the stairs you used always to +pull my hair. + + +HEDDA. + +Did I, really? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, and once you said you would burn it off my head. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh that was all nonsense, of course. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but I was so silly in those days.--And since then, too--we have +drifted so far--far apart from each other. Our circles have been so +entirely different. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, we must try to drift together again. Now listen. At +school we said _du_(4) to each other; and we called each other by +our Christian names--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, I am sure you must be mistaken. + + +HEDDA. + +No, not at all! I can remember quite distinctly. So now we are +going to renew our old friendship. [Draws the footstool closer to +MRS. ELVSTED.] There now! [Kisses her cheek.] You must say _du_ +to me and call me Hedda. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Presses and pats her hands.] Oh, how good and kind you are! I am +not used to such kindness. + + +HEDDA. + +There, there, there! And I shall say _du_ to you, as in the old days, +and call you my dear Thora. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My name is Thea.(5) + + +HEDDA. + +Why, of course! I meant Thea. [Looks at her compassionately.] So +you are not accustomed to goodness and kindness, Thea? Not in your +own home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if I only had a home! But I haven't any; I have never had a home. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her for a moment.] I almost suspected as much. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Gazing helplessly before her.] Yes--yes--yes. + + +HEDDA. + +I don't quite remember--was it not as housekeeper that you first went +to Mr. Elvsted's? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I really went as governess. But his wife--his late wife--was an +invalid,--and rarely left her room. So I had to look after the +housekeeping as well. + + +HEDDA. + +And then--at last--you became mistress of the house. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Sadly.] Yes, I did. + + +HEDDA. + +Let me see--about how long ago was that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +My marriage? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Five years ago. + + +HEDDA. + +To be sure; it must be that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh those five years---! Or at all events the last two or three of +them! Oh, if you(6) could only imagine--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Giving her a little slap on the hand.] De? Fie, Thea! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, I will try---. Well, if--you could only imagine and +understand--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Lightly.] Eilert Lovborg has been in your neighbourhood about three +years, hasn't he? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at here doubtfully.] Eilert Lovborg? Yes--he has. + + +HEDDA. + +Had you known him before, in town here? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Scarcely at all. I mean--I knew him by name of course. + + +HEDDA. + +But you saw a good deal of him in the country? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, he came to us every day. You see, he gave the children lessons; +for in the long run I couldn't manage it all myself. + + +HEDDA. + +No, that's clear.--And your husband---? I suppose he is often away +from home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. Being sheriff, you know, he has to travel about a good deal in +his district. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaning against the arm of the chair.] Thea--my poor, sweet Thea-- +now you must tell me everything--exactly as it stands. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, then you must question me. + + +HEDDA. + +What sort of a man is your husband, Thea? I mean--you know--in +everyday life. Is he kind to you? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Evasively.] I am sure he means well in everything. + + +HEDDA. + +I should think he must be altogether too old for you. There is at +least twenty years' difference between you, is there not? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Irritably.] Yes, that is true, too. Everything about him is +repellent to me! We have not a thought in common. We have no +single point of sympathy--he and I. + + +HEDDA. + +But is he not fond of you all the same? In his own way? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh I really don't know. I think he regards me simply as a useful +property. And then it doesn't cost much to keep me. I am not +expensive. + + +HEDDA. + +That is stupid of you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shakes her head.] It cannot be otherwise--not with him. I don't +think he really cares for any one but himself--and perhaps a little +for the children. + + +HEDDA. + +And for Eilert Lovborg, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looking at her.] For Eilert Lovborg? What puts that into your head? + + +HEDDA. + +Well, my dear--I should say, when he sends you after him all the way +to town--- [Smiling almost imperceptibly.] And besides, you said so +yourself, to Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With a little nervous twitch.] Did I? Yes, I suppose I did. +[Vehemently, but not loudly.] No--I may just as well make a clean +breast of it at once! For it must all come out in any case. + + +HEDDA. + +Why, my dear Thea---? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, to make a long story short: My husband did not know that I was +coming. + + +HEDDA. + +What! Your husband didn't know it! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, of course not. For that matter, he was away from home himself-- +he was travelling. Oh, I could bear it no longer, Hedda! I couldn't +indeed--so utterly alone as I should have been in future. + + +HEDDA. + +Well? And then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +So I put together some of my things--what I needed most--as quietly +as possible. And then I left the house. + + +HEDDA. + +Without a word? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes--and took the train to town. + + +HEDDA. + +Why, my dear, good Thea--to think of you daring to do it! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rises and moves about the room.] What else could I possibly do? + + +HEDDA. + +But what do you think your husband will say when you go home again? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[At the table, looks at her.] Back to him? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I shall never go back to him again. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising and going towards her.] Then you have left your home--for +good and all? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. There was nothing else to be done. + + +HEDDA. + +But then--to take flight so openly. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, it's impossible to keep things of that sort secret. + + +HEDDA. + +But what do you think people will say of you, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +They may say what they like, for aught _I_ care. [Seats herself +wearily and sadly on the sofa.] I have done nothing but what I +had to do. + + +HEDDA. + +[After a short silence.] And what are your plans now? What do you +think of doing. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I don't know yet. I only know this, that I must live here, where +Eilert Lovborg is--if I am to live at all. + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes a chair from the table, seats herself beside her, and strokes +her hands.] My dear Thea--how did this--this friendship--between you +and Eilert Lovborg come about? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh it grew up gradually. I gained a sort of influence over him. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He gave up his old habits. Not because I asked him to, for I never +dared do that. But of course he saw how repulsive they were to me; +and so he dropped them. + + +HEDDA. + +[Concealing an involuntary smile of scorn.] Then you have reclaimed +him--as the saying goes--my little Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +So he says himself, at any rate. And he, on his side, has made a +real human being of me--taught me to think, and to understand so +many things. + + +HEDDA. + +Did he give you lessons too, then? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, not exactly lessons. But he talked to me--talked about such an +infinity of things. And then came the lovely, happy time when I +began to share in his work--when he allowed me to help him! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh he did, did he? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes! He never wrote anything without my assistance. + + +HEDDA. + +You were two good comrades, in fact? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Eagerly.] Comrades! Yes, fancy, Hedda--that is the very word he +used!--Oh, I ought to feel perfectly happy; and yet I cannot; for I +don't know how long it will last. + + +HEDDA. + +Are you no surer of him than that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Gloomily.] A woman's shadow stands between Eilert Lovborg and me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her anxiously.] Who can that be? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I don't know. Some one he knew in his--in his past. Some one he has +never been able wholly to forget. + + +HEDDA. + +What has he told you--about this? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has only once--quite vaguely--alluded to it. + + +HEDDA. + +Well! And what did he say? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He said that when they parted, she threatened to shoot him with a +pistol. + + +HEDDA. + +[With cold composure.] Oh nonsense! No one does that sort of thing +here. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No. And that is why I think it must have been that red-haired singing- +woman whom he once--- + +HEDDA. + +Yes, very likely. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +For I remember they used to say of her that she carried loaded +firearms. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh--then of course it must have been she. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] And now just fancy, Hedda--I hear that this +singing-woman--that she is in town again! Oh, I don't know what to +do--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing towards the inner room.] Hush! Here comes Tesman. [Rises +and whispers.] Thea--all this must remain between you and me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Springing up.] Oh yes--yes! For heaven's sake---! + + + GEORGE TESMAN, with a letter in his hand, comes from the right + through the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +There now--the epistle is finished. + + +HEDDA. + +That's right. And now Mrs. Elvsted is just going. Wait a moment-- +I'll go with you to the garden gate. + + +TESMAN. + +Do you think Berta could post the letter, Hedda dear? + + +HEDDA. + +[Takes it.] I will tell her to. + + + BERTA enters from the hall. + + +BERTA. + +Judge Brack wishes to know if Mrs. Tesman will receive him. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, ask Judge Brack to come in. And look here--put this letter in +the post. + + +BERTA. [Taking the letter.] Yes, ma'am. + [She opens the door for JUDGE BRACK and goes out herself. Brack + is a main of forty-five; thick set, but well-built and elastic + in his movements. His face is roundish with an aristocratic + profile. His hair is short, still almost black, and carefully + dressed. His eyebrows thick. His moustaches are also thick, + with short-cut ends. He wears a well-cut walking-suit, a + little too youthful for his age. He uses an eye-glass, which + he now and then lets drop. + + +JUDGE BRACK. + +[With his hat in his hand, bowing.] May one venture to call so early +in the day? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course one may. + + +TESMAN. + +[Presses his hand.] You are welcome at any time. [Introducing him.] +Judge Brack--Miss Rysing--- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh---! + + +BRACK. + +[Bowing.] Ah--delighted--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him and laughs.] It's nice to have a look at you by +daylight, Judge! + + +BRACK. + +So you find me--altered? + + +HEDDA. + +A little younger, I think. + + +BRACK. + +Thank you so much. + + +TESMAN. + +But what do you think of Hedda--eh? Doesn't she look flourishing? +She has actually--- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, do leave me alone. You haven't thanked Judge Brack for all the +trouble he has taken--- + + +BRACK. + +Oh, nonsense--it was a pleasure to me--- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, you are a friend indeed. But here stands Thea all impatience to +be off--so _au revoir_ Judge. I shall be back again presently. + [Mutual salutations. MRS. ELVSTED and HEDDA go out by the hall + door. + + +BRACK. + +Well,--is your wife tolerably satisfied--- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, we can't thank you sufficiently. Of course she talks of a little +re-arrangement here and there; and one or two things are still wanting. +We shall have to buy some additional trifles. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! + + +TESMAN. + +But we won't trouble you about these things. Hedda say she herself +will look after what is wanting.--Shan't we sit down? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Thanks, for a moment. [Seats himself beside the table.] There is +something I wanted to speak to about, my dear Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? Ah, I understand! [Seating himself.] I suppose it's the +serious part of the frolic that is coming now. Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Oh, the money question is not so very pressing; though, for that +matter, I wish we had gone a little more economically to work. + + +TESMAN. + +But that would never have done, you know! Think of Hedda, my dear +fellow! You, who know her so well---! I couldn't possibly ask her +to put up with a shabby style of living! + + +BRACK. + +No, no--that is just the difficulty. + + +TESMAN. + +And then--fortunately--it can't be long before I receive my +appointment. + + +BRACK. + +Well, you see--such things are often apt to hang fire for a long time. + + +TESMAN. + +Have you heard anything definite? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Nothing exactly definite---. [Interrupting himself.] But by-the-bye +--I have one piece of news for you. + + +TESMAN. + +Well? + + +BRACK. + +Your old friend, Eilert Lovborg, has returned to town. + + +TESMAN. + +I know that already. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! How did you learn it? + + +TESMAN. + +From that lady who went out with Hedda. + + +BRACK. + +Really? What was her name? I didn't quite catch it. + + +TESMAN. + +Mrs. Elvsted. + + +BRACK. + +Aha--Sheriff Elvsted's wife? Of course--he has been living up in +their regions. + + +TESMAN. + +And fancy--I'm delighted to hear that he is quite a reformed character. + + +BRACK. + +So they say. + + +TESMAN. + +And then he has published a new book--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, indeed he has. + + +TESMAN. + +And I hear it has made some sensation! + + +BRACK. + +Quite an unusual sensation. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy--isn't that good news! A man of such extraordinary talents---. +I felt so grieved to think that he had gone irretrievably to ruin. + + +BRACK. + +That was what everybody thought. + + +TESMAN. + +But I cannot imagine what he will take to now! How in the world will +he be able to make his living? Eh? + [During the last words, HEDDA has entered by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[To BRACK, laughing with a touch of scorn.] Tesman is for ever +worrying about how people are to make their living. + + +TESMAN. + +Well you see, dear--we were talking about poor Eilert Lovborg. + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing at him rapidly.] Oh, indeed? [Sets herself in the arm- +chair beside the stove and asks indifferently:] What is the matter +with him? + + +TESMAN. + +Well--no doubt he has run through all his property long ago; and he +can scarcely write a new book every year--eh? So I really can't see +what is to become of him. + + +BRACK. + +Perhaps I can give you some information on that point. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed! + + +BRACK. + +You must remember that his relations have a good deal of influence. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, his relations, unfortunately, have entirely washed their hands of +him. + + +BRACK. + +At one time they called him the hope of the family. + + +TESMAN. + +At one time, yes! But he has put an end to all that. + + +HEDDA. + +Who knows? [With a slight smile.] I hear they have reclaimed him up +at Sheriff Elvsted's--- + + +BRACK. + +And then this book that he has published--- + + +TESMAN. + +Well well, I hope to goodness they may find something for him to +do. I have just written to him. I asked him to come and see us +this evening, Hedda dear. + + +BRACK. + +But my dear fellow, you are booked for my bachelor's party this +evening. You promised on the pier last night. + + +HEDDA. + +Had you forgotten, Tesman? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I had utterly forgotten. + + +BRACK. + +But it doesn't matter, for you may be sure he won't come. + + +TESMAN. + +What makes you think that? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +[With a little hesitation, rising and resting his hands on the back +of his chair.] My dear Tesman--and you too, Mrs. Tesman--I think I +ought not to keep you in the dark about something that--that--- + + +TESMAN. + +That concerns Eilert---? + + +BRACK. + +Both you and him. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, my dear Judge, out with it. + + +BRACK. + +You must be prepared to find your appointment deferred longer than +you desired or expected. + + +TESMAN. + +[Jumping up uneasily.] Is there some hitch about it? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +The nomination may perhaps be made conditional on the result of a +competition--- + + +TESMAN. + +Competition! Think of that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Leans further back in the chair.] Aha--aha! + + +TESMAN. + +But who can my competitor be? Surely not---? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, precisely--Eilert Lovborg. + + +TESMAN. + +[Clasping his hands.] No, no--it's quite impossible! Eh? + + +BRACK. + +H'm--that is what it may come to, all the same. + + +TESMAN. + +Well but, Judge Brack--it would show the most incredible lack of +consideration for me. [Gesticulates with his arms.] For--just +think--I'm a married man! We have married on the strength of these +prospects, Hedda and I; and run deep into debt; and borrowed money +from Aunt Julia too. Good heavens, they had as good as promised me +the appointment. Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, well, well--no doubt you will get it in the end; only after a +contest. + + +HEDDA. + +[Immovable in her arm-chair.] Fancy, Tesman, there will be a sort of +sporting interest in that. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, my dearest Hedda, how can you be so indifferent about it? + + +HEDDA. + +[As before.] I am not at all indifferent. I am most eager to see +who wins. + + +BRACK. + +In any case, Mrs. Tesman, it is best that you should know how matters +stand. I mean--before you set about the little purchases I hear you +are threatening. + + +HEDDA. + +This can make no difference. + + +BRACK. + +Indeed! Then I have no more to say. Good-bye! [To TESMAN.] I shall +look in on my way back from my afternoon walk, and take you home with +me. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, yes--your news has quite upset me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Reclining, holds out her hand.] Good-bye, Judge; and be sure you +call in the afternoon. + + +BRACK. + +Many thanks. Good-bye, good-bye! + + +TESMAN. + +[Accompanying him to the door.] Good-bye my dear Judge! You must +really excuse me--- [JUDGE BRACK goes out by the hall door. + + +TESMAN. + +[Crosses the room.] Oh Hedda--one should never rush into adventures. +Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him, smiling.] Do you do that? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, dear--there is no denying--it was adventurous to go and marry +and set up house upon mere expectations. + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps you are right there. + + +TESMAN. + +Well--at all events, we have our delightful home, Hedda! Fancy, the +home we both dreamed of--the home we were in love with, I may almost +say. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising slowly and wearily.] It was part of our compact that we were +to go into society--to keep open house. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, if you only knew how I had been looking forward to it! Fancy-- +to see you as hostess--in a select circle! Eh? Well, well, well-- +for the present we shall have to get on without society, Hedda--only +to invite Aunt Julia now and then.--Oh, I intended you to lead such +an utterly different life, dear---! + + +HEDDA. + +Of course I cannot have my man in livery just yet. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, no, unfortunately. It would be out of the question for us to +keep a footman, you know. + + +HEDDA. + +And the saddle-horse I was to have had--- + + +TESMAN. + +[Aghast.] The saddle-horse! + + +HEDDA. + +---I suppose I must not think of that now. + + +TESMAN. + +Good heavens, no!--that's as clear as daylight! + + +HEDDA. + +[Goes up the room.] Well, I shall have one thing at least to kill +time with in the meanwhile. + + +TESMAN. + +[Beaming.] Oh thank heaven for that! What is it, Hedda. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[In the middle doorway, looks at him with covert scorn.] My pistols, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +[In alarm.] Your pistols! + + +HEDDA. + +[With cold eyes.] General Gabler's pistols. + [She goes out through the inner room, to the left. + + +TESMAN. + +[Rushes up to the middle doorway and calls after her:] No, for +heaven's sake, Hedda darling--don't touch those dangerous things! +For my sake Hedda! Eh? + + + + +ACT SECOND. + + + The room at the TESMANS' as in the first Act, except that the + piano has been removed, and an elegant little writing-table + with the book-shelves put in its place. A smaller table + stands near the sofa on the left. Most of the bouquets have + been taken away. MRS. ELVSTED'S bouquet is upon the large + table in front.--It is afternoon. + + HEDDA, dressed to receive callers, is alone in the room. She + stands by the open glass door, loading a revolver. The + fellow to it lies in an open pistol-case on the writing- + table. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks down the garden, and calls:] So you are here again, Judge! + + +BRACK. + +[Is heard calling from a distance.] As you see, Mrs. Tesman! + + +HEDDA. + +[Raises the pistol and points.] Now I'll shoot you, Judge Brack! + + +BRACK. + +[Calling unseen.] No, no, no! Don't stand aiming at me! + + +HEDDA. + +This is what comes of sneaking in by the back way.(7) [She fires. + + +BRACK. + +[Nearer.] Are you out of your senses---! + + +HEDDA. + +Dear me--did I happen to hit you? + + +BRACK. + +[Still outside.] I wish you would let these pranks alone! + + +HEDDA. + +Come in then, Judge. + + + JUDGE BRACK, dressed as though for a men's party, enters by + the glass door. He carries a light overcoat over his arm. + + +BRACK. + +What the deuce--haven't you tired of that sport, yet? What are you +shooting at? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I am only firing in the air. + + +BRACK. + +[Gently takes the pistol out of her hand.] Allow me, madam! [Looks +at it.] Ah--I know this pistol well! [Looks around.] Where is the +case? Ah, here it is. [Lays the pistol in it, and shuts it.] Now +we won't play at that game any more to-day. + + +HEDDA. + +Then what in heaven's name would you have me do with myself? + + +BRACK. + +Have you had no visitors? + + +HEDDA. + +[Closing the glass door.] Not one. I suppose all our set are still +out of town. + + +BRACK. + +And is Tesman not at home either? + + +HEDDA. + +[At the writing-table, putting the pistol-case in a drawer which she +shuts.] No. He rushed off to his aunt's directly after lunch; he +didn't expect you so early. + + +BRACK. + +H'm--how stupid of me not to have thought of that! + + +HEDDA. + +[Turning her head to look at him.] Why stupid? + + +BRACK. + +Because if I had thought of it I should have come a little--earlier. + + +HEDDA. + +[Crossing the room.] Then you would have found no one to receive you; +for I have been in my room changing my dress ever since lunch. + + +BRACK. + +And is there no sort of little chink that we could hold a parley +through? + + +HEDDA. + +You have forgotten to arrange one. + + +BRACK. + +That was another piece of stupidity. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we must just settle down here--and wait. Tesman is not likely +to be back for some time yet. + + +BRACK. + +Never mind; I shall not be impatient. + + + HEDDA seats herself in the corner of the sofa. BRACK lays his + overcoat over the back of the nearest chair, and sits down, but + keeps his hat in his hand. A short silence. They look at each + other. + + +HEDDA. + +Well? + + +BRACK. + +[In the same tone.] Well? + + +HEDDA. + +I spoke first. + + +BRACK. + +[Bending a little forward.] Come, let us have a cosy little chat, +Mrs. Hedda.(8) + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaning further back in the sofa.] Does it not seem like a whole +eternity since our last talk? Of course I don't count those few +words yesterday evening and this morning. + + +BRACK. + +You mean since out last confidential talk? Our last _tete-a-tete_? + + +HEDDA. + +Well yes--since you put it so. + + +BRACK. + +Not a day passed but I have wished that you were home again. + + +HEDDA. + +And I have done nothing but wish the same thing. + + +BRACK. + +You? Really, Mrs. Hedda? And I thought you had been enjoying your +tour so much! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, you may be sure of that! + + +BRACK. + +But Tesman's letters spoke of nothing but happiness. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, Tesman! You see, he thinks nothing is so delightful as grubbing +in libraries and making copies of old parchments, or whatever you +call them. + + +BRACK. + +[With a smile of malice.] Well, that is his vocation in life--or +part of it at any rate. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, of course; and no doubt when it's your vocation---. But _I_! +Oh, my dear Mr. Brack, how mortally bored I have been. + + +BRACK. + +[Sympathetically.] Do you really say so? In downright earnest? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, you can surely understand it---! To go for six whole months +without meeting a soul that knew anything of our circle, or could +talk about things we were interested in. + + +BRACK. + +Yes, yes--I too should feel that a deprivation. + + +HEDDA. + +And then, what I found most intolerable of all--- + + +BRACK. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +---was being everlastingly in the company of--one and the same person-- + + +BRACK. + +[With a nod of assent.] Morning, noon, and night, yes--at all possible +times and seasons. + + +HEDDA. + +I said "everlastingly." + + +BRACK. + +Just so. But I should have thought, with our excellent Tesman, one +could--- + + +HEDDA. + +Tesman is--a specialist, my dear Judge. + + +BRACK. + +Undeniable. + + +HEDDA. + +And specialists are not at all amusing to travel with. Not in the +long run at any rate. + + +BRACK. + +Not even--the specialist one happens to love? + + +HEDDA. + +Faugh--don't use that sickening word! + + +BRACK. + +[Taken aback.] What do you say, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Half laughing, half irritated.] You should just try it! To hear of +nothing but the history of civilisation, morning, noon, and night--- + + +BRACK. + +Everlastingly. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes yes yes! And then all this about the domestic industry of the +middle ages---! That's the most disgusting part of it! + + +BRACK. + +[Looks searchingly at her.] But tell me--in that case, how am I to +understand your---? H'm--- + + +HEDDA. + +My accepting George Tesman, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Well, let us put it so. + + +HEDDA. + +Good heavens, do you see anything so wonderful in that? + + +BRACK. + +Yes and no--Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I had positively danced myself tired, my dear Judge. My day was done +--- [With a slight shudder.] Oh no--I won't say that; nor think it +either! + + +BRACK. + +You have assuredly no reason to. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, reasons--- [Watching him closely.] And George Tesman--after all, +you must admit that he is correctness itself. + + +BRACK. + +His correctness and respectability are beyond all question. + + +HEDDA. + +And I don't see anything absolutely ridiculous about him.--Do you? + + +BRACK. + +Ridiculous? N--no--I shouldn't exactly say so--- + + +HEDDA. + +Well--and his powers of research, at all events, are untiring.--I see +no reason why he should not one day come to the front, after all. + + +BRACK. + +[Looks at her hesitatingly.] I thought that you, like every one else, +expected him to attain the highest distinction. + + +HEDDA. + +[With an expression of fatigue.] Yes, so I did.--And then, since he +was bent, at all hazards, on being allowed to provide for me--I really +don't know why I should not have accepted his offer? + + +BRACK. + +No--if you look at it in that light--- + + +HEDDA. + +It was more than my other adorers were prepared to do for me, my dear +Judge. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Well, I can't answer for all the rest; but as for +myself, you know quite well that I have always entertained a--a +certain respect for the marriage tie--for marriage as an institution, +Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +[Jestingly.] Oh, I assure you I have never cherished any hopes with +respect to you. + + +BRACK. + +All I require is a pleasant and intimate interior, where I can make +myself useful in every way, and am free to come and go as--as a +trusted friend--- + + +HEDDA. + +Of the master of the house, do you mean? + + +BRACK. + +[Bowing.] Frankly--of the mistress first of all; but of course of +the master too, in the second place. Such a triangular friendship-- +if I may call it so--is really a great convenience for all the +parties, let me tell you. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I have many a time longed for some one to make a third on our +travels. Oh--those railway-carriage _tete-a-tetes_---! + + +BRACK. + +Fortunately your wedding journey is over now. + + +HEDDA. + +[Shaking her head.] Not by a long--long way. I have only arrived at +a station on the line. + + +BRACK. + +Well, then the passengers jump out and move about a little, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +I never jump out. + + +BRACK. + +Really? + + +HEDDA. + +No--because there is always some one standing by to--- + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] To look at your ankles, do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Precisely. + + +BRACK. + +Well but, dear me--- + + +HEDDA. + +[With a gesture of repulsion.] I won't have it. I would rather keep +my seat where I happen to be--and continue the _tete-a-tete_. + + +BRACK. + +But suppose a third person were to jump in and join the couple. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah--that is quite another matter! + + +BRACK. + +A trusted, sympathetic friend--- + + +HEDDA. + +---with a fund of conversation on all sorts of lively topics--- + + +BRACK. + +---and not the least bit of a specialist! + + +HEDDA. + +[With an audible sigh.] Yes, that would be a relief indeed. + + +BRACK. + +[Hears the front door open, and glances in that direction.] The +triangle is completed. + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud.] And on goes the train. + + + GEORGE TESMAN, in a grey walking-suit, with a soft felt hat, + enters from the hall. He has a number of unbound books under + his arm and in his pockets. + + +TESMAN. + +[Goes up to the table beside the corner settee.] Ouf--what a load +for a warm day--all these books. [Lays them on the table.] I'm +positively perspiring, Hedda. Hallo--are you there already, my dear +Judge? Eh? Berta didn't tell me. + + +BRACK. + +[Rising.] I came in through the garden. + + +HEDDA. + +What books have you got there? + + +TESMAN. + +[Stands looking them through.] Some new books on my special subjects +--quite indispensable to me. + + +HEDDA. + +Your special subjects? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, books on his special subjects, Mrs. Tesman. + [BRACK and HEDDA exchange a confidential smile. + + +HEDDA. + +Do you need still more books on your special subjects? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, my dear Hedda, one can never have too many of them. Of course +one must keep up with all that is written and published. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I suppose one must. + + +TESMAN. + +[Searching among his books.] And look here--I have got hold of Eilert +Lovborg's new book too. [Offering it to her.] Perhaps you would like +to glance through it, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, thank you. Or rather--afterwards perhaps. + + +TESMAN. + +I looked into it a little on the way home. + + +BRACK. + +Well, what do you think of it--as a specialist? + + +TESMAN. + +I think it shows quite remarkable soundness of judgment. He never +wrote like that before. [Putting the books together.] Now I shall +take all these into my study. I'm longing to cut the leaves---! +And then I must change my clothes. [To BRACK.] I suppose we needn't +start just yet? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Oh, dear no--there is not the slightest hurry. + + +TESMAN. + +Well then, I will take my time. [Is going with his books, but stops +in the doorway and turns.] By-the-bye, Hedda--Aunt Julia is not +coming this evening. + + +HEDDA. + +Not coming? Is it that affair of the bonnet that keeps her away? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, not at all. How could you think such a thing of Aunt Julia? +Just fancy---! The fact is, Aunt Rina is very ill. + + +HEDDA. + +She always is. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, but to-day she is much worse than usual, poor dear. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, then it's only natural that her sister should remain with her. +I must bear my disappointment. + + +TESMAN. + +And you can't imagine, dear, how delighted Aunt Julia seemed to be-- +because you had come home looking so flourishing! + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud, rising.] Oh, those everlasting Aunts! + + +TESMAN. + +What? + + +HEDDA. + +[Going to the glass door.] Nothing. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, all right. [He goes through the inner room, out to the right. + + +BRACK. + +What bonnet were you talking about? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, it was a little episode with Miss Tesman this morning. She had +laid down her bonnet on the chair there--[Looks at him and smiles.]-- +and I pretended to think it was the servant's. + + +BRACK. + +[Shaking his head.] Now my dear Mrs. Hedda, how could you do such a +thing? To the excellent old lady, too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Nervously crossing the room.] Well, you see--these impulses come +over me all of a sudden; and I cannot resist them. [Throws herself +down in the easy-chair by the stove.] Oh, I don't know how to +explain it. + + +BRACK. + +[Behind the easy-chair.] You are not really happy--that is at the +bottom of it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking straight before her.] I know of no reason why I should be-- +happy. Perhaps you can give me one? + + +BRACK. + +Well-amongst other things, because you have got exactly the home you +had set your heart on. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him and laughs.] Do you too believe in that legend? + + +BRACK. + +Is there nothing in it, then? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes, there is something in it. + + +BRACK. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +There is this in it, that I made use of Tesman to see me home from +evening parties last summer--- + + +BRACK. + +I, unfortunately, had to go quite a different way. + + +HEDDA. + +That's true. I know you were going a different way last summer. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Oh fie, Mrs. Hedda! Well, then--you and Tesman---? + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we happened to pass here one evening; Tesman, poor fellow, was +writhing in the agony of having to find conversation; so I took pity +on the learned man--- + + +BRACK. + +[Smiles doubtfully.] You took pity? H'm--- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I really did. And so--to help him out of his torment--I happened +to say, in pure thoughtlessness, that I should like to live in this +villa. + + +BRACK. + +No more than that? + + +HEDDA. + +Not that evening. + + +BRACK. + +But afterwards? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, my thoughtlessness had consequences, my dear Judge. + + +BRACK. + +Unfortunately that too often happens, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks! So you see it was this enthusiasm for Secretary Falk's villa +that first constituted a bond of sympathy between George Tesman and +me. From that came our engagement and our marriage, and our wedding +journey, and all the rest of it. Well, well, my dear Judge--as you +make your bed so you must lie, I could almost say. + + +BRACK. + +This is exquisite! And you really cared not a rap about it all the +time? + + +HEDDA. + +No, heaven knows I didn't. + + +BRACK. + +But now? Now that we have made it so homelike for you? + + +HEDDA. + +Uh--the rooms all seem to smell of lavender and dried rose-leaves.-- +But perhaps it's Aunt Julia that has brought that scent with her. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] No, I think it must be a legacy from the late Mrs. +Secretary Falk. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, there is an odour of mortality about it. It reminds me of a +bouquet--the day after the ball. [Clasps her hands behind her head, +leans back in her chair and looks at him.] Oh, my dear Judge--you +cannot imagine how horribly I shall bore myself here. + + +BRACK. + +Why should not you, too, find some sort of vocation in life, Mrs. +Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +A vocation--that should attract me? + + +BRACK. + +If possible, of course. + + +HEDDA. + +Heaven knows what sort of a vocation that could be. I often wonder +whether--- [Breaking off.] But that would never do either. + + +BRACK. + +Who can tell? Let me hear what it is. + + +HEDDA. + +Whether I might not get Tesman to go into politics, I mean. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] Tesman? No really now, political life is not the thing +for him--not at all in his line. + + +HEDDA. + +No, I daresay not.--But if I could get him into it all the same? + + +BRACK. + +Why--what satisfaction could you find in that? If he is not fitted +for that sort of thing, why should you want to drive him into it? + + +HEDDA. + +Because I am bored, I tell you! [After a pause.] So you think it +quite out of the question that Tesman should ever get into the +ministry? + + +BRACK. + +H'm--you see, my dear Mrs. Hedda--to get into the ministry, he would +have to be a tolerably rich man. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising impatiently.] Yes, there we have it! It is this genteel +poverty I have managed to drop into---! [Crosses the room.] That is +what makes life so pitiable! So utterly ludicrous!--For that's what +it is. + + +BRACK. + +Now _I_ should say the fault lay elsewhere. + + +HEDDA. + +Where, then? + + +BRACK. + +You have never gone through any really stimulating experience. + + +HEDDA. + +Anything serious, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, you may call it so. But now you may perhaps have one in store. + + +HEDDA. + +[Tossing her head.] Oh, you're thinking of the annoyances about this +wretched professorship! But that must be Tesman's own affair. I +assure you I shall not waste a thought upon it. + + +BRACK. + +No, no, I daresay not. But suppose now that what people call--in +elegant language--a solemn responsibility were to come upon you? +[Smiling.] A new responsibility, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Angrily.] Be quiet! Nothing of that sort will ever happen! + + +BRACK. + +[Warily.] We will speak of this again a year hence--at the very +outside. + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly.] I have no turn for anything of the sort, Judge Brack. No +responsibilities for me! + + +BRACK. + +Are you so unlike the generality of women as to have no turn for +duties which---? + + +HEDDA. + +[Beside the glass door.] Oh, be quiet, I tell you!--I often think +there is only one thing in the world I have any turn for. + + +BRACK. + +[Drawing near to her.] And what is that, if I may ask? + + +HEDDA. + +[Stands looking out.] Boring myself to death. Now you know it. +[Turns, looks towards the inner room, and laughs.] Yes, as I thought! +Here comes the Professor. + + +BRACK. + +[Softly, in a tone of warning.] Come, come, come, Mrs. Hedda! + + + GEORGE TESMAN, dressed for the party, with his gloves and hat + in his hand, enters from the right through the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda, has no message come from Eilert Lovborg? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +TESMAN. + +Then you'll see he'll be here presently. + + +BRACK. + +Do you really think he will come? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I am almost sure of it. For what you were telling us this +morning must have been a mere floating rumour. + + +BRACK. + +You think so? + + +TESMAN. + +At any rate, Aunt Julia said she did not believe for a moment that he +would ever stand in my way again. Fancy that! + + +BRACK. + +Well then, that's all right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Placing his hat and gloves on a chair on the right.] Yes, but you +must really let me wait for him as long as possible. + + +BRACK. + +We have plenty of time yet. None of my guests will arrive before +seven or half-past. + + +TESMAN. + +Then meanwhile we can keep Hedda company, and see what happens. Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Placing BRACK'S hat and overcoat upon the corner settee.] And at +the worst Mr. Lovborg can remain here with me. + + +BRACK. + +[Offering to take his things.] Oh, allow me, Mrs. Tesman!--What do +you mean by "At the worst"? + + +HEDDA. + +If he won't go with you and Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks dubiously at her.] But, Hedda dear--do you think it would +quite do for him to remain here with you? Eh? Remember, Aunt Julia +can't come. + + +HEDDA. + +No, but Mrs. Elvsted is coming. We three can have a cup of tea +together. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, that will be all right. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] And that would perhaps be the safest plan for him. + + +HEDDA. + +Why so? + + +BRACK. + +Well, you know, Mrs. Tesman, how you used to gird at my little +bachelor parties. You declared they were adapted only for men +of the strictest principles. + + +HEDDA. + +But no doubt Mr. Lovborg's principles are strict enough now. A +converted sinner--- [BERTA appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +There's a gentleman asking if you are at home, ma'am--- + + +HEDDA. + +Well, show him in. + + +TESMAN. + +[Softly.] I'm sure it is he! Fancy that! + + + EILERT LOVBORG enters from the hall. He is slim and lean; + of the same age as TESMAN, but looks older and somewhat + worn-out. His hair and beard are of a blackish brown, his + face long and pale, but with patches of colour on the cheeks. + He is dressed in a well-cut black visiting suit, quite new. + He has dark gloves and a silk hat. He stops near the door, + and makes a rapid bow, seeming somewhat embarrassed. + + +TESMAN. + +[Goes up to him and shakes him warmly by the hand.] Well, my dear +Eilert--so at last we meet again! + + +EILERT LOVBORG. + +[Speaks in a subdued voice.] Thanks for your letter, Tesman. +[Approaching HEDDA.] Will you too shake hands with me, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +[Taking his hand.] I am glad to see you, Mr. Lovborg. [With a +motion of her hand.] I don't know whether you two gentlemen---? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Bowing slightly.] Judge Brack, I think. + + +BRACK. + +[Doing likewise.] Oh yes,--in the old days--- + + +TESMAN. + +[To LOVBORG, with his hands on his shoulders.] And now you must make +yourself entirely at home, Eilert! Mustn't he, Hedda?--For I hear you +are going to settle in town again? Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, I am. + + +TESMAN. + +Quite right, quite right. Let me tell you, I have got hold of your +new book; but I haven't had time to read it yet. + + +LOVBORG. + +You may spare yourself the trouble. + + +TESMAN. + +Why so? + + +LOVBORG. + +Because there is very little in it. + + +TESMAN. + +Just fancy--how can you say so? + + +BRACK. + +But it has been very much praised, I hear. + + +LOVBORG. + +That was what I wanted; so I put nothing into the book but what every +one would agree with. + + +BRACK. + +Very wise of you. + + +TESMAN. + +Well but, my dear Eilert---! + + +LOVBORG. + +For now I mean to win myself a position again--to make a fresh start. + + +TESMAN. + +[A little embarrassed.] Ah, that is what you wish to do? Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Smiling, lays down his hat, and draws a packet wrapped in paper, +from his coat pocket.] But when this one appears, George Tesman, you +will have to read it. For this is the real book--the book I have put +my true self into. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? And what is it? + + +LOVBORG. + +It is the continuation. + + +TESMAN. + +The continuation? Of what? + + +LOVBORG. + +Of the book. + + +TESMAN. + +Of the new book? + + +LOVBORG. + +Of course. + + +TESMAN. + + +Why, my dear Eilert--does it not come down to our own days? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, it does; and this one deals with the future. + + +TESMAN. + +With the future! But, good heavens, we know nothing of the future! + + +LOVBORG. + +No; but there is a thing or two to be said about it all the same. +[Opens the packet.] Look here--- + + +TESMAN. + +Why, that's not your handwriting. + + +LOVBORG. + +I dictated it. [Turning over the pages.] It falls into two sections. +The first deals with the civilising forces of the future. And here is +the second--[running through the pages towards the end]--forecasting +the probable line of development. + + +TESMAN. + +How odd now! I should never have thought of writing anything of that +sort. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the glass door, drumming on the pane.] H'm---. I daresay not. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Replacing the manuscript in its paper and laying the packet on the +table.] I brought it, thinking I might read you a little of it this +evening. + + +TESMAN. + +That was very good of you, Eilert. But this evening---? [Looking +back at BRACK.] I don't see how we can manage it--- + + +LOVBORG. + +Well then, some other time. There is no hurry. + + +BRACK. + +I must tell you, Mr. Lovborg--there is a little gathering at my house +this evening--mainly in honour of Tesman, you know--- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking for his hat.] Oh--then I won't detain you--- + + +BRACK. + +No, but listen--will you not do me the favour of joining us? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Curtly and decidedly.] No, I can't--thank you very much. + + +BRACK. + +Oh, nonsense--do! We shall be quite a select little circle. And I +assure you we shall have a "lively time," as Mrs. Hed--as Mrs. Tesman +says. + + +LOVBORG. + +I have no doubt of it. But nevertheless--- + + +BRACK. + +And then you might bring your manuscript with you, and read it to +Tesman at my house. I could give you a room to yourselves. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, think of that, Eilert,--why shouldn't you? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Interposing.] But, Tesman, if Mr. Lovborg would really rather not! +I am sure Mr. Lovborg is much more inclined to remain here and have +supper with me. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking at her.] With you, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +And with Mrs. Elvsted. + + +LOVBORG. + +Ah--- [Lightly.] I saw her for a moment this morning. + + +HEDDA. + +Did you? Well, she is coming this evening. So you see you are almost +bound to remain, Mr. Lovborg, or she will have no one to see her home. + + +LOVBORG. + +That's true. Many thanks, Mrs. Tesman--in that case I will remain. + + +HEDDA. + +Then I have one or two orders to give the servant--- + [She goes to the hall door and rings. BERTA enters. HEDDA talks + to her in a whisper, and points towards the inner room. BERTA + nods and goes out again. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the same time, to LOVBORG.] Tell me, Eilert--is it this new +subject--the future--that you are going to lecture about? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. + + +TESMAN. + +They told me at the bookseller's that you are going to deliver a +course of lectures this autumn. + + +LOVBORG. + +That is my intention. I hope you won't take it ill, Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh no, not in the least! But---? + + +LOVBORG. + +I can quite understand that it must be very disagreeable to you. + + +TESMAN. + +[Cast down.] Oh, I can't expect you, out of consideration for me, +to--- + + +LOVBORG. + +But I shall wait till you have received your appointment. + + +TESMAN. + +Will you wait? Yes but--yes but--are you not going to compete with +me? Eh? + + +LOVBORG. + +No; it is only the moral victory I care for. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, bless me--then Aunt Julia was right after all! Oh yes--I knew +it! Hedda! Just fancy--Eilert Lovborg is not going to stand in our +way! + + +HEDDA. + +[Curtly.] Our way? Pray leave me out of the question. + [She goes up towards the inner room, where BERTA is placing a + tray with decanters and glasses on the table. HEDDA nods + approval, and comes forward again. BERTA goes out. + + +TESMAN. + +[At the same time.] And you, Judge Brack--what do you say to this? +Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, I say that a moral victory--h'm--may be all very fine--- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, certainly. But all the same--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking at TESMAN with a cold smile.] You stand there looking as if +you were thunderstruck--- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes--so I am--I almost think--- + + +BRACK. + +Don't you see, Mrs. Tesman, a thunderstorm has just passed over? + + +HEDDA. + +[Pointing towards the room.] Will you not take a glass of cold punch, +gentlemen? + + +BRACK. + +[Looking at his watch.] A stirrup-cup? Yes, it wouldn't come amiss. + + +TESMAN. + +A capital idea, Hedda! Just the thing! Now that the weight has been +taken off my mind--- + + +HEDDA. + +Will you not join them, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +[With a gesture of refusal.] No, thank you. Nothing for me. + + +BRACK. + +Why bless me--cold punch is surely not poison. + + +LOVBORG. + +Perhaps not for everyone. + + +HEDDA. + +I will deep Mr. Lovborg company in the meantime. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, yes, Hedda dear, do. + [He and BRACK go into the inner room, seat themselves, drink + punch, smoke cigarettes, and carry on a lively conversation + during what follows. EILERT LOVBORG remains standing beside + the stove. HEDDA goes to the writing-table. + + +HEDDA. + +[Raising he voice a little.] Do you care to look at some photographs, +Mr. Lovborg? You know Tesman and I made a tour in they Tyrol on our +way home? + [She takes up an album, and places it on the table beside the + sofa, in the further corner of which she seats herself. EILERT + LOVBORG approaches, stops, and looks at her. Then he takes a + chair and seats himself to her left. + + +HEDDA. + +[Opening the album.] Do you see this range of mountains, Mr. Lovborg? +It's the Ortler group. Tesman has written the name underneath. Here +it is: "The Ortler group near Meran." + + +LOVBORG. + +[Who has never taken his eyes off her, says softly and slowly:] +Hedda--Gabler! + + +HEDDA. + +[Glancing hastily at him.] Ah! Hush! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Repeats softly.] Hedda Gabler! + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking at the album.] That was my name in the old days--when we +two knew each other. + + +LOVBORG. + +And I must teach myself never to say Hedda Gabler again--never, as +long as I live. + + +HEDDA. + +[Still turning over the pages.] Yes, you must. And I think you ought +to practise in time. The sooner the better, I should say. + + +LOVBORG. + +[In a tone of indignation.] Hedda Gabler married? And married to-- +George Tesman! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes--so the world goes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Oh, Hedda, Hedda--how could you(9) throw yourself away! + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks sharply at him.] What? I can't allow this! + + +LOVBORG. + +What do you mean? + [TESMAN comes into the room and goes towards the sofa. + + +HEDDA. + +[Hears him coming and says in an indifferent tone.] And this is a +view from the Val d'Ampezzo, Mr. Lovborg. Just look at these peaks! +[Looks affectionately up at TESMAN.] What's the name of these +curious peaks, dear? + + +TESMAN. + +Let me see. Oh, those are the Dolomites. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, that's it!--Those are the Dolomites, Mr. Lovborg. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda, dear,--I only wanted to ask whether I shouldn't bring you a +little punch after all? For yourself at any rate--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, do, please; and perhaps a few biscuits. + + +TESMAN. + +No cigarettes? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +TESMAN. + +Very well. + [He goes into the inner room and out to the right. BRACK sits + in the inner room, and keeps an eye from time to time on HEDDA + and LOVBORG. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Softly, as before.] Answer me, Hedda--how could you go and do this? + + +HEDDA. + +[Apparently absorbed in the album.] If you continue to say _du_ to +me I won't talk to you. + + +LOVBORG. + +May I not say _du_ even when we are alone? + + +HEDDA. + +No. You may think it; but you mustn't say it. + + +LOVBORG. + +Ah, I understand. It is an offence against George Tesman, whom +you(10)--love. + + +HEDDA. + +[Glances at him and smiles.] Love? What an idea! + + +LOVBORG. + +You don't love him then! + + +HEDDA. + +But I won't hear of any sort of unfaithfulness! Remember that. + + +LOVBORG. + +Hedda--answer me one thing--- + + +HEDDA. + +Hush! [TESMAN enters with a small tray from the inner room. + + +TESMAN. + +Here you are! Isn't this tempting? [He puts the tray on the table. + + +HEDDA. + +Why do you bring it yourself? + + +TESMAN. + +[Filling the glasses.] Because I think it's such fun to wait upon +you, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +But you have poured out two glasses. Mr. Lovborg said he wouldn't +have any--- + + +TESMAN. + +No, but Mrs. Elvsted will soon be here, won't she? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, by-the-bye--Mrs. Elvsted--- + + +TESMAN. + +Had you forgotten her? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +We were so absorbed in these photographs. [Shows him a picture.] +Do you remember this little village? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, it's that one just below the Brenner Pass. It was there we +passed the night--- + + +HEDDA. + +---and met that lively party of tourists. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, that was the place. Fancy--if we could only have had you with +us, Eilert! Eh? + [He returns to the inner room and sits beside BRACK. + + +LOVBORG. + +Answer me one thing, Hedda--- + + +HEDDA. + +Well? + + +LOVBORG. + +Was there no love in your friendship for me either? Not a spark--not +a tinge of love in it? + + +HEDDA. + +I wonder if there was? To me it seems as though we were two good +comrades--two thoroughly intimate friends. [Smilingly.] You +especially were frankness itself. + + +LOVBORG. + +It was you that made me so. + + +HEDDA. + +As I look back upon it all, I think there was really something +beautiful, something fascinating--something daring--in--in that +secret intimacy--that comradeship which no living creature so much +as dreamed of. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, yes, Hedda! Was there not?--When I used to come to your father's +in the afternoon--and the General sat over at the window reading his +papers--with his back towards us--- + + +HEDDA. + +And we two on the corner sofa--- + + +LOVBORG. + +Always with the same illustrated paper before us--- + + +HEDDA. + +For want of an album, yes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, Hedda, and when I made my confessions to you--told you about +myself, things that at that time no one else knew! There I would +sit and tell you of my escapades--my days and nights of devilment. +Oh, Hedda--what was the power in you that forced me to confess these +things? + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think it was any power in me? + + +LOVBORG. + +How else can I explain it? And all those--those roundabout questions +you used to put to me--- + + +HEDDA. + +Which you understood so particularly well--- + + +LOVBORG. + +How could you sit and question me like that? Question me quite +frankly--- + + +HEDDA. + +In roundabout terms, please observe. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, but frankly nevertheless. Cross-question me about--all that sort +of thing? + + +HEDDA. + +And how could you answer, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, that is just what I can't understand--in looking back upon it. +But tell me now, Hedda--was there not love at the bottom of our +friendship? On your side, did you not feel as though you might purge +my stains away--if I made you my confessor? Was it not so? + + +HEDDA. + +No, not quite. + + +LOVBORG. + +What was you motive, then? + + +HEDDA. + +Do think it quite incomprehensible that a young girl--when it can be +done--without any one knowing--- + + +LOVBORG. + +Well? + + +HEDDA. + +---should be glad to have a peep, now and then, into a world which---? + + +LOVBORG. + +Which---? + + +HEDDA. + +---which she is forbidden to know anything about? + + +LOVBORG. + +So that was it? + + +HEDDA. + +Partly. Partly--I almost think. + + +LOVBORG. + +Comradeship in the thirst for life. But why should not that, at any +rate, have continued? + + +HEDDA. + +The fault was yours. + + +LOVBORG. + +It was you that broke with me. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, when our friendship threatened to develop into something more +serious. Shame upon you, Eilert Lovborg! How could you think of +wronging your--your frank comrade. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Clenches his hands.] Oh, why did you not carry out your threat? +Why did you not shoot me down? + + +HEDDA. + +Because I have such a dread of scandal. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, Hedda, you are a coward at heart. + + +HEDDA. + +A terrible coward. [Changing her tone.] But it was a lucky thing +for you. And now you have found ample consolation at the Elvsteds'. + + +LOVBORG. + +I know what Thea has confided to you. + + +HEDDA. + +And perhaps you have confided to her something about us? + + +LOVBORG. + +Not a word. She is too stupid to understand anything of that sort. + + +HEDDA. + +Stupid? + + +LOVBORG. + +She is stupid about matters of that sort. + + +HEDDA. + +And I am cowardly. [Bends over towards him, without looking him in +the face, and says more softly:] But now I will confide something +to you. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Eagerly.] Well? + + +HEDDA. + +The fact that I dared not shoot you down--- + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes! + + +HEDDA. + +---that was not my arrant cowardice--that evening. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her a moment, understands, and whispers passionately.] Oh, +Hedda! Hedda Gabler! Now I begin to see a hidden reason beneath our +comradeship! You(11) and I---! After all, then, it was your craving +for life--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Softly, with a sharp glance.] Take care! Believe nothing of the +sort! + [Twilight has begun to fall. The hall door is opened from + without by BERTA. + + +HEDDA. + +[Closes the album with a bang and calls smilingly:] Ah, at last! +My darling Thea,--come along! + + + MRS. ELVSTED enters from the hall. She is in evening dress. + The door is closed behind her. + + +HEDDA. + +[On the sofa, stretches out her arms towards her.] My sweet Thea-- +you can't think how I have been longing for you! + [MRS. ELVSTED, in passing, exchanges slight salutations with + the gentlemen in the inner room, then goes up to the table + and gives HEDDA her hand. EILERT LOVBORG has risen. He and + MRS. ELVSTED greet each other with a silent nod. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ought I to go in and talk to your husband for a moment? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, not at all. Leave those two alone. They will soon be going. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Are they going out? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, to a supper-party. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Quickly, to LOVBORG.] Not you? + + +LOVBORG. + +No. + + +HEDDA. + +Mr. Lovborg remains with us. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Takes a chair and is about to seat herself at his side.] Oh, how +nice it is here! + + +HEDDA. + +No, thank you, my little Thea! Not there! You'll be good enough to +come over here to me. I will sit between you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, just as you please. + [She goes round the table and seats herself on the sofa on + HEDDA'S right. LOVBORG re-seats himself on his chair. + + +LOVBORG. + +[After a short pause, to HEDDA.] Is not she lovely to look at? + + +HEDDA. + +[Lightly stroking her hair.] Only to look at! + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. For we two--she and I--we are two real comrades. We have +absolute faith in each other; so we can sit and talk with perfect +frankness--- + + +HEDDA. + +Not round about, Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +Well--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly clinging close to HEDDA.] Oh, how happy I am, Hedda! For +only think, he says I have inspired him too. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at her with a smile.] Ah! Does he say that, dear? + + +LOVBORG. + +And then she is so brave, Mrs. Tesman! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Good heavens--am I brave? + + +LOVBORG. + +Exceedingly--where your comrade is concerned. + + +HEDDA. + +Exceedingly--where your comrade is concerned. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, yes--courage! If one only had that! + + +LOVBORG. + +What then? What do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +Then life would perhaps be liveable, after all. [With a sudden change +of tone.] But now, my dearest Thea, you really must have a glass of +cold punch. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, thanks--I never take anything of that kind. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, you, Mr. Lovborg. + + +LOVBORG. + +Nor I, thank you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he doesn't either. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks fixedly at him.] But if I say you shall? + + +LOVBORG. + +It would be of no use. + + +HEDDA. + +[Laughing.] Then I, poor creature, have no sort of power over you? + + +LOVBORG. + +Not in that respect. + + +HEDDA. + +But seriously, I think you ought to--for your own sake. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Why, Hedda---! + + +LOVBORG. + +How so? + + +HEDDA. + +Or rather on account of other people. + + +LOVBORG. + +Indeed? + + +HEDDA. + +Otherwise people might be apt to suspect that--in your heart of +hearts--you did not feel quite secure--quite confident in yourself. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly.] Oh please, Hedda---! + +LOVBORG. + +People may suspect what they like--for the present. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Joyfully.] Yes, let them! + + +HEDDA. + +I saw it plainly in Judge Brack's face a moment ago. + + +LOVBORG. + +What did you see? + + +HEDDA. + +His contemptuous smile, when you dared not go with them into the +inner room. + + +LOVBORG. + +Dared not? Of course I preferred to stop here and talk to you. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What could be more natural, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +But the Judge could not guess that. And I say, too, the way he smiled +and glanced at Tesman when you dared not accept his invitation to this +wretched little supper-party of his. + + +LOVBORG. + +Dared not! Do you say I dared not? + + +HEDDA. + +_I_ don't say so. But that was how Judge Brack understood it. + + +LOVBORG. + +Well, let him. + + +HEDDA. + +Then you are not going with them? + + +LOVBORG. + +I will stay here with you and Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, Hedda--how can you doubt that? + + +HEDDA. + +[Smiles and nods approvingly to LOVBORG.] Firm as a rock! Faithful +to your principles, now and for ever! Ah, that is how a man should +be! [Turns to MRS. ELVSTED and caresses her.] Well now, what did I +tell you, when you came to us this morning in such a state of +distraction--- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Surprised.] Distraction! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Terrified.] Hedda--oh Hedda---! + + +HEDDA. + +You can see for yourself! You haven't the slightest reason to be in +such mortal terror--- [Interrupting herself.] There! Now we can +all three enjoy ourselves! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Who has given a start.] Ah--what is all this, Mrs. Tesman? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh my God, Hedda! What are you saying? What are you doing? + + +HEDDA. + +Don't get excited! That horrid Judge Brack is sitting watching you. + + +LOVBORG. + +So she was in mortal terror! On my account! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly and piteously.] Oh, Hedda--now you have ruined everything! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks fixedly at her for a moment. His face is distorted.] So that +was my comrade's frank confidence in me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Imploringly.] Oh, my dearest friend--only let me tell you--- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Takes one of the glasses of punch, raises it to his lips, and says +in a low, husky voice.] Your health, Thea! + [He empties the glass, puts it down, and takes the second. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly.] Oh, Hedda, Hedda--how could you do this? + + +HEDDA. + +_I_ do it? _I_? Are you crazy? + + +LOVBORG. + +Here's to your health too, Mrs. Tesman. Thanks for the truth. Hurrah +for the truth! + [He empties the glass and is about to re-fill it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Lays her hand on his arm.] Come, come--no more for the present. +Remember you are going out to supper. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no, no! + + +HEDDA. + +Hush! They are sitting watching you. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Putting down the glass.] Now, Thea--tell me the truth--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes. + + +LOVBORG. + +Did your husband know that you had come after me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] Oh, Hedda--do you hear what his is asking? + + +LOVBORG. + +Was it arranged between you and him that you were to come to town and +look after me? Perhaps it was the Sheriff himself that urged you to +come? Aha, my dear--no doubt he wanted my help in his office! Or +was it at the card-table that he missed me? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly, in agony.] Oh, Lovborg, Lovborg---! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Seizes a glass and is on the point of filling it.] Here's a glass +for the old Sheriff too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Preventing him.] No more just now. Remember, you have to read your +manuscript to Tesman. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Calmly, putting down the glass.] It was stupid of me all this. +Thea--to take it in this way, I mean. Don't be angry with me, my +dear, dear comrade. You shall see--both you and the others--that +if I was fallen once--now I have risen again! Thanks to you, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Radiant with joy.] Oh, heaven be praised---! + [BRACK has in the meantime looked at his watch. He and TESMAN + rise and come into the drawing-room. + + +BRACK. + +[Takes his hat and overcoat.] Well, Mrs. Tesman, our time has come. + + +HEDDA. + +I suppose it has. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Rising.] Mine too, Judge Brack. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Softly and imploringly.] Oh, Lovborg, don't do it! + + +HEDDA. + +[Pinching her arm.] They can hear you! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With a suppressed shriek.] Ow! + + +LOVBORG. + +[To BRACK.] You were good enough to invite me. + + +JUDGE BRACK. + +Well, are you coming after all? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, many thanks. + + +BRACK. + +I'm delighted--- + + +LOVBORG. + +[To TESMAN, putting the parcel of MS. in his pocket.] I should like +to show you one or two things before I send it to the printers. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy--that will be delightful. But, Hedda dear, how is Mrs. Elvsted +to get home? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that can be managed somehow. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking towards the ladies.] Mrs. Elvsted? Of course, I'll come +again and fetch her. [Approaching.] At ten or thereabouts, Mrs. +Tesman? Will that do? + + +HEDDA. + +Certainly. That will do capitally. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, then, that's all right. But you must not expect me so early, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, you may stop as long--as long as every you please. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Trying to conceal her anxiety.] Well then, Mr. Lovborg--I shall +remain here until you come. + + +LOVBORG. + +[With his hat in his hand.] Pray do, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +BRACK. + +And now off goes the excursion train, gentlemen! I hope we shall have +a lively time, as a certain fair lady puts it. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, if only the fair lady could be present unseen---! + + +BRACK. + +Why unseen? + + +HEDDA. + +In order to hear a little of your liveliness at first hand, Judge +Brack. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing.] I should not advise the fair lady to try it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Also laughing.] Come, you're a nice one Hedda! Fancy that! + + +BRACK. + +Well, good-bye, good-bye, ladies. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Bowing.] About ten o'clock, then, + [BRACK, LOVBORG, and TESMAN go out by the hall door. At the + same time, BERTA enters from the inner room with a lighted + lamp, which she places on the drawing-room table; she goes + out by the way she came. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Who has risen and is wandering restlessly about the room.] Hedda-- +Hedda--what will come of all this? + + +HEDDA. + +At ten o'clock--he will be here. I can see him already--with vine- +leaves in his hair--flushed and fearless--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I hope he may. + + +HEDDA. + +And then, you see--then he will have regained control over himself. +Then he will be a free man for all his days. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh God!--if he would only come as you see him now! + + +HEDDA. + +He will come as I see him--so, and not otherwise! [Rises and +approaches THEA.] You may doubt him as long as you please; _I_ +believe in him. And now we will try--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +You have some hidden motive in this, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I have. I want for once in my life to have power to mould a +human destiny. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Have you not the power? + + +HEDDA. + +I have not--and have never had it. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Not your husband's? + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think that is worth the trouble? Oh, if you could only +understand how poor I am. And fate has made you so rich! [Clasps +her passionately in her arms.] I think I must burn your hair off +after all. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Let me go! Let me go! I am afraid of you, Hedda! + + +BERTA. + +[In the middle doorway.] Tea is laid in the dining-room, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Very well. We are coming + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no, no! I would rather go home alone! At once! + + +HEDDA. + +Nonsense! First you shall have a cup of tea, you little stupid. And +then--at ten o'clock--Eilert Lovborg will be here--with vine-leaves +in his hair. + [She drags MRS. ELVSTED almost by force to the middle doorway. + + + + +ACT THIRD. + + + The room at the TESMANS'. The curtains are drawn over the + middle doorway, and also over the glass door. The lamp, + half turned down, and with a shade over it, is burning on + the table. In the stove, the door of which stands open, + there has been a fire, which is now nearly burnt out. + + MRS. ELVSTED, wrapped in a large shawl, and with her feet + upon a foot-rest, sits close to the stove, sunk back in + the arm-chair. HEDDA, fully dressed, lies sleeping upon + the sofa, with a sofa-blanket over her. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[After a pause, suddenly sits up in her chair, and listens eagerly. +Then she sinks back again wearily, moaning to herself.] Not yet!-- +Oh God--oh God--not yet! + + + BERTA slips cautiously in by the hall door. She has a letter in + her hand. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Turns and whispers eagerly.] Well--has any one come? + + +BERTA. + +[Softly.] Yes, a girl has just brought this letter. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Quickly, holding out her hand.] A letter! Give it to me! + + +BERTA. + +No, it's for Dr. Tesman, ma'am. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, indeed. + + +BERTA. + +It was Miss Tesman's servant that brought it. I'll lay it here on +the table. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, do. + + +BERTA. + +[Laying down the letter.] I think I had better put out the lamp. +It's smoking. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, put it out. It must soon be daylight now. + + +BERTA. + +[Putting out the lamp.] It is daylight already, ma'am. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, broad day! And no one come back yet---! + + +BERTA. + +Lord bless you, ma'am--I guessed how it would be. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +You guessed? + + +BERTA. + +Yes, when I saw that a certain person had come back to town--and that +he went off with them. For we've heard enough about that gentleman +before now. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Don't speak so loud. You will waken Mrs. Tesman. + + +BERTA. + +[Looks towards the sofa and sighs.] No, no--let her sleep, poor +thing. Shan't I put some wood on the fire? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Thanks, not for me. + + +BERTA. + +Oh, very well. [She goes softly out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Is wakened by the shutting of the door, and looks up.] What's +that---? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +It was only the servant. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking about her.] Oh, we're here---! Yes, now I remember. [Sits +erect upon the sofa, stretches herself, and rubs her eyes.] What +o'clock is it, Thea? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks at her watch.] It's past seven. + + +HEDDA. + +When did Tesman come home? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +He has not come. + + +HEDDA. + +Not come home yet? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Rising.] No one has come. + + +HEDDA. + +Think of our watching and waiting here till four in the morning--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] And how I watched and waited for him! + + +HEDDA. + +[Yawns, and says with her hand before her mouth.] Well well--we might +have spared ourselves the trouble. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Did you get a little sleep? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh yes; I believe I have slept pretty well. Have you not? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Not for a moment. I couldn't, Hedda!--not to save my life. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rises and goes towards her.] There there there! There's nothing to +be so alarmed about. I understand quite well what has happened. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, what do you think? Won't you tell me? + + +HEDDA. + +Why, of course it has been a very late affair at Judge Brack's--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes--that is clear enough. But all the same--- + + +HEDDA. + +And then, you see, Tesman hasn't cared to come home and ring us up in +the middle of the night. [Laughing.] Perhaps he wasn't inclined to +show himself either--immediately after a jollification. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But in that case--where can he have gone? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course he has gone to his Aunts' and slept there. They have his +old room ready for him. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, he can't be with them for a letter has just come for him from +Miss Tesman. There it lies. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? [Looks at the address.] Why yes, it's addressed in Aunt +Julia's hand. Well then, he has remained at Judge Brack's. And +as for Eilert Lovborg--he is sitting, with vine leaves in his hair, +reading his manuscript. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, Hedda, you are just saying things you don't believe a bit. + + +HEDDA. + +You really are a little blockhead, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh yes, I suppose I am. + + +HEDDA. + +And how mortally tired you look. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I am mortally tired. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, you must do as I tell you. You must go into my room and +lie down for a little while. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--I shouldn't be able to sleep. + + +HEDDA. + +I am sure you would. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Well, but you husband is certain to come soon now; and then I want to +know at once--- + + +HEDDA. + +I shall take care to let you know when he comes. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Do you promise me, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, rely upon me. Just you go in and have a sleep in the meantime. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Thanks; then I'll try. [She goes off to the inner room. + [HEDDA goes up to the glass door and draws back the curtains. + The broad daylight streams into the room. Then she takes a + little hand-glass from the writing-table, looks at herself + in it, and arranges her hair. Next she goes to the hall + door and presses the bell-button. + + + BERTA presently appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +Did you want anything, ma'am? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes; you must put some more wood in the stove. I am shivering. + + +BERTA. + +Bless me--I'll make up the fire at once. [She rakes the embers +together and lays a piece of wood upon them; then stops and listens.] +That was a ring at the front door, ma'am. + + +HEDDA. + +Then go to the door. I will look after the fire. + + +BERTA. + +It'll soon burn up. [She goes out by the hall door. + [HEDDA kneels on the foot-rest and lays some more pieces of + wood in the stove. + + + After a short pause, GEORGE TESMAN enters from the hall. He + steals on tiptoe towards the middle doorway and is about to + slip through the curtains. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the stove, without looking up.] Good morning. + + +TESMAN. + +[Turns.] Hedda! [Approaching her.] Good heavens--are you up so +early? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am up very early this morning. + + +TESMAN. + +And I never doubted you were still sound asleep! Fancy that, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Don't speak so loud. Mrs. Elvsted is resting in my room. + + +TESMAN. + +Has Mrs. Elvsted been here all night? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, since no one came to fetch her. + + +TESMAN. + +Ah, to be sure. + + +HEDDA. + +[Closes the door of the stove and rises.] Well, did you enjoy +yourselves at Judge Brack's? + + +TESMAN. + +Have you been anxious about me? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +No, I should never think of being anxious. But I asked if you had +enjoyed yourself. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes,--for once in a way. Especially the beginning of the evening; +for then Eilert read me part of his book. We arrived more than an +hour too early--fancy that! And Brack had all sorts of arrangements +to make--so Eilert read to me. + + +HEDDA. + +[Seating herself by the table on the right.] Well? Tell me then--- + + +TESMAN. + +[Sitting on a footstool near the stove.] Oh, Hedda, you can't +conceive what a book that is going to be! I believe it is one of the +most remarkable things that have ever been written. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. +** +Yes yes; I don't care about that--- + + +TESMAN. + +I must make a confession to you, Hedda. When he had finished reading +--a horrid feeling came over me. + + +HEDDA. + +A horrid feeling? + + +TESMAN. + +I felt jealous of Eilert for having had it in him to write such a +book. Only think, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, yes, I am thinking! + + +TESMAN. + +And then how pitiful to think that he--with all his gifts--should be +irreclaimable, after all. + + +HEDDA. + +I suppose you mean that he has more courage than the rest? + + +TESMAN. + +No, not at all--I mean that he is incapable of taking his pleasure +in moderation. + + +HEDDA. + +And what came of it all--in the end? + + +TESMAN. + +Well, to tell the truth, I think it might best be described as an +orgie, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Had he vine-leaves in his hair? + + +TESMAN. + +Vine-leaves? No, I saw nothing of the sort. But he made a long, +rambling speech in honour of the woman who had inspired him in his +work--that was the phrase he used. + + +HEDDA. + +Did he name her? + + +TESMAN. + +No, he didn't; but I can't help thinking he meant Mrs. Elvsted. You +may be sure he did. + + +HEDDA. + +Well--where did you part from him? + + +TESMAN. + +On the way to town. We broke up--the last of us at any rate--all +together; and Brack came with us to get a breath of fresh air. And +then, you see, we agreed to take Eilert home; for he had had far more +than was good for him. + + +HEDDA. + +I daresay. + + +TESMAN. + +But now comes the strange part of it, Hedda; or, I should rather say, +the melancholy part of it. I declare I am almost ashamed--on Eilert's +account--to tell you--- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, go on---! + + +TESMAN. + +Well, as we were getting near town, you see, I happened to drop a +little behind the others. Only for a minute or two--fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes yes yes, but---? + + +TESMAN. + +And then, as I hurried after them--what do you think I found by the +wayside? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, how should I know! + + +TESMAN. + +You mustn't speak of it to a soul, Hedda! Do you hear! Promise me, +for Eilert's sake. [Draws a parcel, wrapped in paper, from his coat +pocket.] Fancy, dear--I found this. + + +HEDDA. + +Is not that the parcel he had with him yesterday? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, it is the whole of his precious, irreplaceable manuscript! And +he had gone and lost it, and knew nothing about it. Only fancy, +Hedda! So deplorably--- + + +HEDDA. + +But why did you not give him back the parcel at once? + + +TESMAN. + +I didn't dare to--in the state he was then in--- + + +HEDDA. + +Did you not tell any of the others that you had found it? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, far from it! You can surely understand that, for Eilert's sake, +I wouldn't do that. + + +HEDDA. + +So no one knows that Eilert Lovborg's manuscript is in your +possession? + + +TESMAN. + +No. And no one must know it. + +HEDDA. + +Then what did you say to him afterwards? + + +TESMAN. + +I didn't talk to him again at all; for when we got in among the +streets, he and two or three of the others gave us the slip and +disappeared. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed! They must have taken him home then. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, so it would appear. And Brack, too, left us. + + +HEDDA. + +And what have you been doing with yourself since? + + +TESMAN. + +Well, I and some of the others went home with one of the party, a +jolly fellow, and took our morning coffee with him; or perhaps I +should rather call it our night coffee--eh? But now, when I have +rested a little, and given Eilert, poor fellow, time to have his +sleep out, I must take this back to him. + + +HEDDA. + +[Holds out her hand for the packet.] No--don't give it to him! Not +in such a hurry, I mean. Let me read it first. + + +TESMAN. + +No, my dearest Hedda, I mustn't, I really mustn't. + + +HEDDA. + +You must not? + + +TESMAN. + +No--for you can imagine what a state of despair he will be in when +he wakens and misses the manuscript. He has no copy of it, you must +know! He told me so. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking searchingly at him.] Can such a thing not be reproduced? +Written over again? + + +TESMAN. + +No, I don't think that would be possible. For the inspiration, you +see--- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, yes--I suppose it depends on that---[Lightly.] But, by-the-bye +--here is a letter for you. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy---! + + +HEDDA. + +[Handing it to him.] It came early this morning. + + +TESMAN. + +It's from Aunt Julia! What can it be? [He lays the packet on the +other footstool, opens the letter, runs his eye through it, and jumps +up.] Oh, Hedda--she says that poor Aunt Rina is dying! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, we were prepared for that. + + +TESMAN. + +And that if I want to see her again, I must make haste. I'll run in +to them at once. + + +HEDDA. + +[Suppressing a smile.] Will you run? + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, my dearest Hedda--if you could only make up your mind to come with +me! Just think! + + +HEDDA. + +[Rises and says wearily, repelling the idea.] No, no don't ask me. I +will not look upon sickness and death. I loathe all sorts of ugliness. + + +TESMAN. + +Well, well, then---! [Bustling around.] My hat---? My overcoat---? +Oh, in the hall---. I do hope I mayn't come too late, Hedda! Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, if you run--- [BERTA appears at the hall door. + + +BERTA. + +Judge Brack is at the door, and wishes to know if he may come in. + + +TESMAN. + +At this time! No, I can't possibly see him. + + +HEDDA. + +But I can. [To BERTA.] Ask Judge Brack to come in. [BERTA goes out. + + +HEDDA. + +[Quickly, whispering.] The parcel, Tesman! + [She snatches it up from the stool. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, give it to me! + + +HEDDA. + +No, no, I will keep it till you come back. + [She goes to the writing-table and places it in the bookcase. + TESMAN stands in a flurry of haste, and cannot get his + gloves on. + + + JUDGE BRACK enters from the hall. + + +HEDDA. + +[Nodding to him.] You are an early bird, I must say. + + +BRACK. + +Yes, don't you think so! [To TESMAN.] Are you on the move, too? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I must rush of to my aunts'. Fancy--the invalid one is lying at +death's door, poor creature. + + +BRACK. + +Dear me, is she indeed? Then on no account let me detain you. At +such a critical moment--- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, I must really rush--- Good-bye! Good-bye! + [He hastens out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Approaching.] You seem to have made a particularly lively night of +it at your rooms, Judge Brack. + + +BRACK. + +I assure you I have not had my clothes off, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Not you, either? + + +BRACK. + +No, as you may see. But what has Tesman been telling you of the +night's adventures? + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, some tiresome story. Only that they went and had coffee somewhere +or other. + + +BRACK. + +I have heard about that coffee-party already. Eilert Lovborg was not +with them, I fancy? + + +HEDDA. + +No, they had taken him home before that. + + +BRACK. + +Tesman too? + + +HEDDA. + +No, but some of the others, he said. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] George Tesman is really an ingenuous creature, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, heaven knows he is. Then is there something behind all this? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, perhaps there may be. + + +HEDDA. + +Well then, sit down, my dear Judge, and tell your story in comfort. + [She seats herself to the left of the table. BRACK sits near + her, at the long side of the table. + + +HEDDA. + +Now then? + + +BRACK. + +I had special reasons for keeping track of my guests--last night. + + +HEDDA. + +Of Eilert Lovborg among the rest, perhaps? + + +BRACK. + +Frankly, yes. + + +HEDDA. + +Now you make me really curious--- + + +BRACK. + +Do you know where he and one or two of the others finished the night, +Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +If it is not quite unmentionable, tell me. + + +BRACK. + +Oh no, it's not at all unmentionable. Well, they put in an appearance +at a particularly animated soiree. + + +HEDDA. + +Of the lively kind? + + +BRACK. + +Of the very liveliest--- + + +HEDDA. + +Tell me more of this, Judge Brack--- + + +BRACK. + +Lovborg, as well as the others, had been invited in advance. I knew +all about it. But he had declined the invitation; for now, as you +know, he has become a new man. + + +HEDDA. + +Up at the Elvsteds', yes. But he went after all, then? + + +BRACK. + +Well, you see, Mrs. Hedda--unhappily the spirit moved him at my rooms +last evening--- + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I hear he found inspiration. + + +BRACK. + +Pretty violent inspiration. Well, I fancy that altered his purpose; +for we menfolk are unfortunately not always so firm in our principles +as we ought to be. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I am sure you are an exception, Judge Brack. But as to Lovborg---? + + +BRACK. + +To make a long story short--he landed at last in Mademoiselle Diana's +rooms. + + +HEDDA. + +Mademoiselle Diana's? + + +BRACK. + +It was Mademoiselle Diana that was giving the soiree, to a select +circle of her admirers and her lady friends. + + +HEDDA. + +Is she a red-haired woman? + + +BRACK. + +Precisely. + + +HEDDA. + +A sort of a--singer? + + +BRACK. + +Oh yes--in her leisure moments. And moreover a mighty huntress--of +men--Mrs. Hedda. You have no doubt heard of her. Eilert Lovborg was +one of her most enthusiastic protectors--in the days of his glory. + + +HEDDA. + +And how did all this end? + + +BRACK. + +Far from amicably, it appears. After a most tender meeting, they +seem to have come to blows--- + + +HEDDA. + +Lovborg and she? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. He accused her or her friends of having robbed him. He declared +that his pocket-book had disappeared--and other things as well. In +short, he seems to have made a furious disturbance. + + +HEDDA. + +And what came of it all? + + +BRACK. + +It came to a general scrimmage, in which the ladies as well as the +gentlemen took part. Fortunately the police at last appeared on the +scene. + + +HEDDA. + +The police too? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. I fancy it will prove a costly frolic for Eilert Lovborg, crazy +being that he is. + + +HEDDA. + +How so? + + +BRACK. + +He seems to have made a violent resistance--to have hit one of the +constables on the head and torn the coat off his back. So they had +to march him off to the police-station with the rest. + + +HEDDA. + +How have you learnt all this? + + +BRACK. + +From the police themselves. + + +HEDDA. + +[Gazing straight before her.] So that is what happened. Then he had +no vine-leaves in his hair. + + +BRACK. + +Vine-leaves, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +[Changing her tone.] But tell me now, Judge--what is your real reason +for tracking out Eilert Lovborg's movements so carefully? + + +BRACK. + +In the first place, it could not be entirely indifferent to me if it +should appear in the police-court that he came straight from my house. + + +HEDDA. + +Will the matter come into court then? + + +BRACK. + +Of course. However, I should scarcely have troubled so much about +that. But I thought that, as a friend of the family, it was my duty +to supply you and Tesman with a full account of his nocturnal exploits. + + +HEDDA. + +Why so, Judge Brack? + + +BRACK. + +Why, because I have a shrewd suspicion that he intends to use you as +a sort of blind. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, how can you think such a thing! + + +BRACK. + +Good heavens, Mrs. Hedda--we have eyes in our head. Mark my words! +This Mrs. Elvsted will be in no hurry to leave town again. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, even if there should be anything between them, I suppose there +are plenty of other places where they could meet. + + +BRACK. + +Not a single home. Henceforth, as before, every respectable house +will be closed against Eilert Lovborg. + + +HEDDA. + +And so ought mine to be, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. I confess it would be more than painful to me if this personage +were to be made free of your house. How superfluous, how intrusive, +he would be, if he were to force his way into--- + + +HEDDA. + +---into the triangle? + + +BRACK. + +Precisely. It would simply mean that I should find myself homeless. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks at him with a smile.] So you want to be the one cock in the +basket(12)--that is your aim. + + +BRACK. + +[Nods slowly and lowers his voice.] Yes, that is my aim. And for +that I will fight--with every weapon I can command. + + +HEDDA. + +[Her smile vanishing.] I see you are a dangerous person--when it +comes to the point. + + +BRACK. + +Do you think so? + + +HEDDA. + +I am beginning to think so. And I am exceedingly glad to think--that +you have no sort of hold over me. + + +BRACK. + +[Laughing equivocally.] Well well, Mrs. Hedda--perhaps you are right +there. If I had, who knows what I might be capable of? + + +HEDDA. + +Come come now, Judge Brack! That sounds almost like a threat. + + +BRACK. + +[Rising.] Oh, not at all! The triangle, you know, ought, if possible, +to be spontaneously constructed. + + +HEDDA. + +There I agree with you. + + +BRACK. + +Well, now I have said all I had to say; and I had better be getting +back to town. Good-bye, Mrs. Hedda. [He goes towards the glass door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Rising.] Are you going through the garden? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, it's a short cut for me. + + +HEDDA. + +And then it is a back way, too. + + +BRACK. + +Quite so. I have no objection to back ways. They may be piquant +enough at times. + + +HEDDA. + +When there is ball practice going on, you mean? + + +BRACK. + +[In the doorway, laughing to her.] Oh, people don't shoot their tame +poultry, I fancy. + + +HEDDA. + +[Also laughing.] Oh no, when there is only one cock in the basket--- + [They exchange laughing nods of farewell. He goes. She closes + the door behind him. + [HEDDA, who has become quite serious, stands for a moment + looking out. Presently she goes and peeps through the + curtain over the middle doorway. Then she goes to the + writing-table, takes LOVBORG'S packet out of the bookcase, + and is on the point of looking through its contents. BERTA + is heard speaking loudly in the hall. HEDDA turns and + listens. Then she hastily locks up the packet in the drawer, + and lays the key on the inkstand. + + + EILERT LOVBORG, with his greatcoat on and his hat in his + hand, tears open the hall door. He looks somewhat confused + and irritated. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looking towards the hall.] and I tell you I must and will come in! +There! + [He closes the door, turns, sees HEDDA, at once regains his self- + control, and bows. + + +HEDDA. + +[At the writing-table.] Well, Mr Lovborg, this is rather a late hour +to call for Thea. + + +LOVBORG. + +You mean rather an early hour to call on you. Pray pardon me. + + +HEDDA. + +How do you know that she is still here? + + +LOVBORG. + +They told me at her lodgings that she had been out all night. + + +HEDDA. + +[Going to the oval table.] Did you notice anything about the people +of the house when they said that? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks inquiringly at her.] Notice anything about them? + + +HEDDA. + +I mean, did they seem to think it odd? + + +LOVBORG. + +[Suddenly understanding.] Oh yes, of course! I am dragging her down +with me! However, I didn't notice anything.--I suppose Tesman is not +up yet. + + +HEDDA. + +No--I think not--- + + +LOVBORG. + +When did he come home? + + +HEDDA. + +Very late. + + +LOVBORG. + +Did he tell you anything? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I gathered that you had had an exceedingly jolly evening at +Judge Brack's. + + +LOVBORG. + +Nothing more? + + +HEDDA. + +I don't think so. However, I was so dreadfully sleepy--- + + + MRS. ELVSTED enters through the curtains of the middle doorway. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Going towards him.] Ah, Lovborg! At last---! + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, at last. And too late! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks anxiously at him.] What is too late? + + +LOVBORG. + +Everything is too late now. It is all over with me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh no, no--don't say that! + + +LOVBORG. + +You will say the same when you hear--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I won't hear anything! + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps you would prefer to talk to her alone? If so, I will leave +you. + + +LOVBORG. + +No, stay--you too. I beg you to stay. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, but I won't hear anything, I tell you. + + +LOVBORG. + +It is not last night's adventures that I want to talk about. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What is it then---? + + +LOVBORG. + +I want to say that now our ways must part. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Part! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] I knew it! + + +LOVBORG. + +You can be of no more service to me, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +How can you stand there and say that! No more service to you! Am I +not to help you now, as before? Are we not to go on working together? + + +LOVBORG. + +Henceforward I shall do no work. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Despairingly.] Then what am I to do with my life? + + +LOVBORG. + +You must try to live your life as if you had never know me. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +But you know I cannot do that! + + +LOVBORG. + +Try if you cannot, Thea. You must go home again--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In vehement protest.] Never in this world! Where you are, there +will I be also! I will not let myself be driven away like this! I +will remain here! I will be with you when the book appears. + + +HEDDA. + +[Half aloud, in suspense.] Ah yes--the book! + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] My book and Thea's; for that is what it is. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I feel that it is. And that is why I have a right to be with +you when it appears! I will see with my own eyes how respect and +honour pour in upon you afresh. And the happiness--the happiness-- +oh, I must share it with you! + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea--our book will never appear. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Never appear! + + +LOVBORG. + +Can never appear. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In agonised foreboding.] Lovborg--what have you done with the +manuscript? + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks anxiously at him.] Yes, the manuscript---? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Where is it? + + +LOVBORG. + +The manuscript---. Well then--I have torn the manuscript into a +thousand pieces. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shrieks.] Oh no, no---! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] But that's not--- + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] Not true, you think? + + +HEDDA. + +[Collecting herself.] Oh well, of course--since you say so. But it +sounded so improbable--- + + +LOVBORG. + +It is true, all the same. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wringing her hands.] Oh God--oh God, Hedda--torn his own work to +pieces! + + +LOVBORG. + +I have torn my own life to pieces. So why should I not tear my life- +work too---? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +And you did this last night? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, I tell you! Tore it into a thousand pieces--and scattered them +on the fiord--far out. There there is cool sea-water at any rate-- +let them drift upon it--drift with the current and the wind. And +then presently they will sink---deeper and deeper--as I shall, Thea. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Do you know, Lovborg, that what you have done with the book--I shall +think of it to my dying day as though you had killed a little child. + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes, you are right. It is a sort of child-murder. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +How could you, then---! Did not the child belong to me too? + + +HEDDA. + +[Almost inaudibly.] Ah, the child--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Breathing heavily.] It is all over then. Well well, now I will go, +Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +But you are not going away from town? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I don't know what I shall do. I see nothing but darkness before +me. [She goes out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Stands waiting for a moment.] So you are not going to see her home, +Mr. Lovborg? + + +LOVBORG. + +I? Through the streets? Would you have people see her walking with +me? + + +HEDDA. + +Of course I don't know what else may have happened last night. But +is it so utterly irretrievable? + + +LOVBORG. + +It will not end with last night--I know that perfectly well. And +the thing is that now I have no taste for that sort of life either. +I won't begin it anew. She has broken my courage and my power of +braving life out. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looking straight before her.] So that pretty little fool has had +her fingers in a man's destiny. [Looks at him.] But all the same, +how could you treat her so heartlessly. + + +LOVBORG. + +Oh, don't say that I was heartless! + + +HEDDA. + +To go and destroy what has filled her whole soul for months and years! +You do not call that heartless! + + +LOVBORG. + +To you I can tell the truth, Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +The truth? + + +LOVBORG. + +First promise me--give me your word--that what I now confide in you +Thea shall never know. + + +HEDDA. + +I give you my word. + + +LOVBORG. + +Good. Then let me tell you that what I said just now was untrue. + + +HEDDA. + +About the manuscript? + + +LOVBORG. + +Yes. I have not torn it to pieces--nor thrown it into the fiord. + + +HEDDA. + +No, no---. But--where is it then? + + +LOVBORG. + +I have destroyed it none the less--utterly destroyed it, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +I don't understand. + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea said that what I had done seemed to her like a child-murder. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so she said. + + +LOVBORG. + +But to kill his child--that is not the worst thing a father can do to +it. + + +HEDDA. + +Not the worst? + + +LOVBORG. + +Suppose now, Hedda, that a man--in the small hours of the morning-- +came home to his child's mother after a night of riot and debauchery, +and said: "Listen--I have been here and there--in this place and in +that. And I have taken our child with--to this place and to that. +And I have lost the child--utterly lost it. The devil knows into +what hands it may have fallen--who may have had their clutches on it." + + +HEDDA. + +Well--but when all is said and done, you know--this was only a book--- + + +LOVBORG. + +Thea's pure soul was in that book. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so I understand. + + +LOVBORG. + +And you can understand, too, that for her and me together no future +is possible. + + +HEDDA. + +What path do you mean to take then? + + +LOVBORG. + +None. I will only try to make an end of it all--the sooner the better. + + +HEDDA. + +[A step nearer him.] Eilert Lovborg--listen to me.--Will you not try +to--to do it beautifully? + + +LOVBORG. + +Beautifully? [Smiling.] With vine-leaves in my hair, as you used to +dream in the old days---? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no. I have lost my faith in the vine-leaves. But beautifully +nevertheless! For once in a way!--Good-bye! You must go now--and +do not come here any more. + + +LOVBORG. + +Good-bye, Mrs. Tesman. And give George Tesman my love. + [He is on the point of going. + + +HEDDA. + +No, wait! I must give you a memento to take with you. + [She goes to the writing-table and opens the drawer and the + pistol-case; then returns to LOVBORG with one of the pistols. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Looks at her.] This? Is this the memento? + + +HEDDA. + +[Nodding slowly.] Do you recognise it? It was aimed at you once. + + +LOVBORG. + +You should have used it then. + + +HEDDA. + +Take it--and do you use it now. + + +LOVBORG. + +[Puts the pistol in his breast pocket.] Thanks! + + +HEDDA. + +And beautifully, Eilert Lovborg. Promise me that! + + +LOVBORG. + +Good-bye, Hedda Gabler. [He goes out by the hall door. + [HEDDA listens for a moment at the door. Then she goes up to + the writing-table, takes out the packet of manuscript, peeps + under the cover, draws a few of the sheets half out, and + looks at them. Next she goes over and seats herself in the + arm-chair beside the stove, with the packet in her lap. + Presently she opens the stove door, and then the packet. + + +HEDDA. + +[Throws one of the quires into the fire and whispers to herself.] +Now I am burning your child, Thea!--Burning it, curly-locks! +[Throwing one or two more quires into the stove.] Your child and +Eilert Lovborg's. [Throws the rest in.] I am burning--I am burning +your child. + + + + +ACT FOURTH. + + The same rooms at the TESMANS'. It is evening. The drawing- + room is in darkness. The back room is light by the hanging + lamp over the table. The curtains over the glass door are + drawn close. + + HEDDA, dressed in black, walks to and fro in the dark room. + Then she goes into the back room and disappears for a moment + to the left. She is heard to strike a few chords on the + piano. Presently she comes in sight again, and returns to + the drawing-room. + + BERTA enters from the right, through the inner room, with a + lighted lamp, which she places on the table in front of the + corner settee in the drawing-room. Her eyes are red with + weeping, and she has black ribbons in her cap. She goes + quietly and circumspectly out to the right. HEDDA goes up + to the glass door, lifts the curtain a little aside, and + looks out into the darkness. + + Shortly afterwards, MISS TESMAN, in mourning, with a bonnet + and veil on, comes in from the hall. HEDDA goes towards her + and holds out her hand. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, Hedda, here I am, in mourning and forlorn; for now my poor +sister has at last found peace. + + +HEDDA. + +I have heard the news already, as you see. Tesman sent me a card. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Yes, he promised me he would. But nevertheless I thought that to +Hedda--here in the house of life--I ought myself to bring the tidings +of death. + + +HEDDA. + +That was very kind of you. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Ah, Rina ought not to have left us just now. This is not the time +for Hedda's house to be a house of mourning. + + +HEDDA. + +[Changing the subject.] She died quite peacefully, did she not, Miss +Tesman? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, her end was so calm, so beautiful. And then she had the +unspeakable happiness of seeing George once more--and bidding him +good-bye.--Has he not come home yet? + + +HEDDA. + +No. He wrote that he might be detained. But won't you sit down? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +No thank you, my dear, dear Hedda. I should like to, but I have so +much to do. I must prepare my dear one for her rest as well as I can. +She shall go to her grave looking her best. + + +HEDDA. + +Can I not help you in any way? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, you must not think of it! Hedda Tesman must have no hand in such +mournful work. Nor let her thought dwell on it either--not at this +time. + + +HEDDA. + +One is not always mistress of one's thoughts--- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +[Continuing.] Ah yes, it is the way of the world. At home we shall +be sewing a shroud; and here there will soon be sewing too, I suppose +--but of another sort, thank God! + + + GEORGE TESMAN enters by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +Ah, you have come at last! + + +TESMAN. + +You here, Aunt Julia? With Hedda? Fancy that! + + +MISS TESMAN. + +I was just going, my dear boy. Well, have you done all you promised? + + +TESMAN. + +No; I'm really afraid I have forgotten half of it. I must come to you +again to-morrow. To-day my brain is all in a whirl. I can't keep my +thoughts together. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Why, my dear George, you mustn't take it in this way. + + +TESMAN. + +Mustn't---? How do you mean? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Even in your sorrow you must rejoice, as I do--rejoice that she is at +rest. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh yes, yes--you are thinking of Aunt Rina. + + +HEDDA. + +You will feel lonely now, Miss Tesman. + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Just at first, yes. But that will not last very long, I hope. I +daresay I shall soon find an occupant for Rina's little room. + + +TESMAN. + +Indeed? Who do you think will take it? Eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, there's always some poor invalid or other in want of nursing, +unfortunately. + + +HEDDA. + +Would you really take such a burden upon you again? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +A burden! Heaven forgive you, child--it has been no burden to me. + + +HEDDA. + +But suppose you had a total stranger on your hands--- + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Oh, one soon makes friends with sick folk; and it's such an absolute +necessity for me to have some one to live for. Well, heaven be +praised, there may soon be something in this house, too, to keep an +old aunt busy. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, don't trouble about anything here. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, just fancy what a nice time we three might have together, if---? + + +HEDDA. + +If---? + + +TESMAN. + +[Uneasily.] Oh nothing. It will all come right. Let us hope so--eh? + + +MISS TESMAN. + +Well well, I daresay you two want to talk to each other. [Smiling.] +And perhaps Hedda may have something to tell you too, George. Good- +bye! I must go home to Rina. [Turning at the door.] How strange it +is to think that now Rina is with me and with my poor brother as well! + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, fancy that, Aunt Julia! Eh? + [MISS TESMAN goes out by the hall door. + + +HEDDA. + +[Follows TESMAN coldly and searchingly with her eyes.] I almost +believe your Aunt Rina's death affects you more than it does your +Aunt Julia. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, it's not that alone. It's Eilert I am so terribly uneasy about. + + +HEDDA. + +[Quickly.] Is there anything new about him? + + +TESMAN. + +I looked in at his rooms this afternoon, intending to tell him the +manuscript was in safe keeping. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, did you find him? + + +TESMAN. + +No. He wasn't at home. But afterwards I met Mrs. Elvsted, and she +told me that he had been here early this morning. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, directly after you had gone. + + +TESMAN. + +And he said that he had torn his manuscript to pieces--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, so he declared. + + +TESMAN. + +Why, good heavens, he must have been completely out of his mind! And +I suppose you thought it best not to give it back to him, Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +No, he did not get it. + + +TESMAN. + +But of course you told him that we had it? + + +HEDDA. + +No. [Quickly.] Did you tell Mrs. Elvsted? + + +TESMAN. + +No; I thought I had better not. But you ought to have told him. +Fancy, if, in desperation, he should go and do himself some injury! +Let me have the manuscript, Hedda! I will take it to him at once. +Where is it? + + +HEDDA. + +[Cold and immovable, leaning on the arm-chair.] I have not got it. + + +TESMAN. + +Have not got it? What in the world do you mean? + + +HEDDA. + +I have burnt it--every line of it. + + +TESMAN. + +[With a violent movement of terror.] Burnt! Burnt Eilert's +manuscript! + + +HEDDA. + +Don't scream so. The servant might hear you. + + +TESMAN. + +Burnt! Why, good God---! No, no, no! It's impossible! + + +HEDDA. + +It is so, nevertheless. + + +TESMAN. + +Do you know what you have done, Hedda? It's unlawful appropriation +of lost property. Fancy that! Just ask Judge Brack, and he'll tell +you what it is. + + +HEDDA. + +I advise you not to speak of it--either to Judge Brack or to anyone +else. + + +TESMAN. + +But how could you do anything so unheard-of? What put it into your +head? What possessed you? Answer me that--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Suppressing an almost imperceptible smile.] I did it for your sake, +George. + + +TESMAN. + +For my sake! + + +HEDDA. + +This morning, when you told me about what he had read to you--- + + +TESMAN. + +Yes yes--what then? + + +HEDDA. + +You acknowledged that you envied him his work. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, of course I didn't mean that literally. + + +HEDDA. + +No matter--I could not bear the idea that any one should throw you +into the shade. + + +TESMAN. + +[In an outburst of mingled doubt and joy.] Hedda! Oh, is this true? +But--but--I never knew you show your love like that before. Fancy +that! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, I may as well tell you that--just at this time--- [Impatiently +breaking off.] No, no; you can ask Aunt Julia. She well tell you, +fast enough. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, I almost think I understand you, Hedda! [Clasps his hands +together.] Great heavens! do you really mean it! Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Don't shout so. The servant might hear. + + +TESMAN. + +[Laughing in irrepressible glee.] The servant! Why, how absurd you +are, Hedda. It's only my old Berta! Why, I'll tell Berta myself. + + +HEDDA. + +[Clenching her hands together in desperation.] Oh, it is killing me, +--it is killing me, all this! + + +TESMAN. + +What is, Hedda? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[Coldly, controlling herself.] All this--absurdity--George. + + +TESMAN. + +Absurdity! Do you see anything absurd in my being overjoyed at the +news! But after all--perhaps I had better not say anything to Berta. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh---why not that too? + + +TESMAN. + +No, no, not yet! But I must certainly tell Aunt Julia. And then +that you have begun to call me George too! Fancy that! Oh, Aunt +Julia will be so happy--so happy! + + +HEDDA. + +When she hears that I have burnt Eilert Lovborg's manuscript--for +your sake? + + +TESMAN. + +No, by-the-bye--that affair of the manuscript--of course nobody must +know about that. But that you love me so much,(13) Hedda--Aunt Julia +must really share my joy in that! I wonder, now, whether this sort +of thing is usual in young wives? Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +I think you had better ask Aunt Julia that question too. + + +TESMAN. + +I will indeed, some time or other. [Looks uneasy and downcast again.] +And yet the manuscript--the manuscript! Good God! it is terrible to +think what will become of poor Eilert now. + + + MRS. ELVSTED, dressed as in the first Act, with hat and cloak, + enters by the hall door. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Greets them hurriedly, and says in evident agitation.] Oh, dear +Hedda, forgive my coming again. + + +HEDDA. + +What is the matter with you, Thea? + + +TESMAN. + +Something about Eilert Lovborg again--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes! I am dreadfully afraid some misfortune has happened to him. + + +HEDDA. + +[Seized her arm.] Ah,--do you think so? + + +TESMAN. + +Why, good Lord--what makes you think that, Mrs. Elvsted? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +I heard them talking of him at my boarding-house--just as I came in. +Oh, the most incredible rumours are afloat about him to-day. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, fancy, so I heard too! And I can bear witness that he went +straight home to bed last night. Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Well, what did they say at the boarding-house? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I couldn't make out anything clearly. Either they knew nothing +definite, or else---. They stopped talking when the saw me; and I +did not dare to ask. + + +TESMAN. + +[Moving about uneasily.] We must hope--we must hope that you +misunderstood them, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, no; I am sure it was of him they were talking. And I heard +something about the hospital or--- + + +TESMAN. + +The hospital? + + +HEDDA. + +No--surely that cannot be! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I was in such mortal terror! I went to his lodgings and asked +for him there. + + +HEDDA. + +You could make up your mind to that, Thea! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +What else could I do? I really could bear the suspense no longer. + + +TESMAN. + +But you didn't find him either--eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No. And the people knew nothing about him. He hadn't been home +since yesterday afternoon, they said. + + +TESMAN. + +Yesterday! Fancy, how could they say that? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, I am sure something terrible must have happened to him. + + +TESMAN. + +Hedda dear--how would it be if I were to go and make inquiries---? + + +HEDDA. + +No, no--don't you mix yourself up in this affair. + + + JUDGE BRACK, with his hat in his hand, enters by the hall + door, which BERTA opens, and closes behind him. He looks + grave and bows in silence. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, is that you, my dear Judge? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. It was imperative I should see you this evening. + + +TESMAN. + +I can see you have heard the news about Aunt Rina? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, that among other things. + + +TESMAN. + +Isn't it sad--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Well, my dear Tesman, that depends on how you look at it. + + +TESMAN. + +[Looks doubtfully at him.] Has anything else happened? + + +BRACK. + +Yes. + + +HEDDA. + +[In suspense.] Anything sad, Judge Brack? + + +BRACK. + +That, too, depends on how you look at it, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Unable to restrain her anxiety.] Oh! it is something about Eilert +Lovborg! + + +BRACK. + +[With a glance at her.] What makes you think that, Madam? Perhaps +you have already heard something---? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[In confusion.] No, nothing at all, but--- + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, for heaven's sake, tell us! + + +BRACK. + +[Shrugging his shoulders.] Well, I regret to say Eilert Lovborg has +been taken to the hospital. He is lying at the point of death. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Shrieks.] Oh God! oh God---! + + +TESMAN. + +To the hospital! And at the point of death! + + +HEDDA. + +[Involuntarily.] So soon then--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Wailing.] And we parted in anger, Hedda! + + +HEDDA. + +[Whispers.] Thea--Thea--be careful! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Not heeding her.] I must go to him! I must see him alive! + + +BRACK. + +It is useless, Madam. No one will be admitted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, at least tell me what has happened to him? What is it? + + +TESMAN. + +You don't mean to say that he has himself--- Eh? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am sure he has. + + +BRACK. + +[Keeping his eyes fixed upon her.] Unfortunately you have guessed +quite correctly, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how horrible! + + +TESMAN. + +Himself, then! Fancy that! + + +HEDDA. + +Shot himself! + + +BRACK. + +Rightly guessed again, Mrs. Tesman. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[With an effort at self-control.] When did it happen, Mr. Brack? + + +BRACK. + +This afternoon--between three and four. + + +TESMAN. + +But, good Lord, where did he do it? Eh? + + +BRACK. + +[With some hesitation.] Where? Well--I suppose at his lodgings. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, that cannot be; for I was there between six and seven. + + +BRACK. + +Well then, somewhere else. I don't know exactly. I only know that +he was found---. He had shot himself--in the breast. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, how terrible! That he should die like that! + + +HEDDA. + +[To BRACK.] Was it in the breast? + + +BRACK. + +Yes--as I told you. + + +HEDDA. + +Not in the temple? + + +BRACK. + +In the breast, Mrs. Tesman. + + +HEDDA. + +Well, well--the breast is a good place, too. + + +BRACK. + +How do you mean, Mrs. Tesman? + + +HEDDA. + +[Evasively.] Oh, nothing--nothing. + + +TESMAN. + +And the wound is dangerous, you say--eh? + + +BRACK. + +Absolutely mortal. The end has probably come by this time. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, I feel it. The end! The end! Oh, Hedda---! + + +TESMAN. + +But tell me, how have you learnt all this? + + +BRACK. + +[Curtly.] Through one of the police. A man I had some business with. + + +HEDDA. + +[In a clear voice.] At last a deed worth doing! + + +TESMAN. + +[Terrified.] Good heavens, Hedda! what are you saying? + + +HEDDA. + +I say there is beauty in this. + + +BRACK. + +H'm, Mrs. Tesman--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, Hedda, how can you talk of beauty in such an act! + + +HEDDA. + +Eilert Lovborg has himself made up his account with life. He has had +the courage to do--the one right thing. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +No, you must never think that was how it happened! It must have been +in delirium that he did it. + + +TESMAN. + +In despair! + + +HEDDA. + +That he did not. I am certain of that. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes! In delirium! Just as when he tore up our manuscript. + + +BRACK. + +[Starting.] The manuscript? Has he torn that up? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, last night. + + +TESMAN. + +[Whispers softly.] Oh, Hedda, we shall never get over this. + + +BRACK. + +H'm, very extraordinary. + + +TESMAN. + +[Moving about the room.] To think of Eilert going out of the world +in this way! And not leaving behind him the book that would have +immortalised his name--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if only it could be put together again! + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, if it only could! I don't know what I would not give--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Perhaps it can, Mr. Tesman. + + +TESMAN. + +What do you mean? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Searches in the pocket of her dress.] Look here. I have kept all +the loose notes he used to dictate from. + + +HEDDA. + +[A step forward.] Ah---! + + +TESMAN. + +You have kept them, Mrs. Elvsted! Eh? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, I have them here. I put them in my pocket when I left home. +Here they still are--- + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, do let me see them! + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Hands him a bundle of papers.] But they are in such disorder--all +mixed up. + + +TESMAN. + +Fancy, if we could make something out of them, after all! Perhaps if +we two put our heads together--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh yes, at least let us try--- + + +TESMAN. + +We will manage it! We must! I will dedicate my life to this task. + + +HEDDA. + +You, George? Your life? + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, or rather all the time I can spare. My own collections must +wait in the meantime. Hedda--you understand, eh? I owe this to +Eilert's memory. + + +HEDDA. + +Perhaps. + + +TESMAN. + +And so, my dear Mrs. Elvsted, we will give our whole minds to it. +There is no use in brooding over what can't be undone--eh? We must +try to control our grief as much as possible, and--- + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Yes, yes, Mr. Tesman, I will do the best I can. + + +TESMAN. + +Well then, come here. I can't rest until we have looked through the +notes. Where shall we sit? Here? No, in there, in the back room. +Excuse me, my dear Judge. Come with me, Mrs. Elvsted. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Oh, if only it were possible! + [TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED go into the back room. She takes + off her hat and cloak. They both sit at the table under the + hanging lamp, and are soon deep in an eager examination of + the papers. HEDDA crosses to the stove and sits in the arm- + chair. Presently BRACK goes up to her. + + +HEDDA. + +[In a low voice.] Oh, what a sense of freedom it gives one, this act +of Eilert Lovborg's. + + +BRACK. + +Freedom, Mrs. Hedda? Well, of course, it is a release for him--- + + +HEDDA. + +I mean for me. It gives me a sense of freedom to know that a deed +of deliberate courage is still possible in this world,--a deed of +spontaneous beauty. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] H'm--my dear Mrs. Hedda--- + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, I know what you are going to say. For you are a kind of +specialist too, like--you know! + + +BRACK. + +[Looking hard at her.] Eilert Lovborg was more to you than perhaps +you are willing to admit to yourself. Am I wrong? + + +HEDDA. + +I don't answer such questions. I only know that Eilert Lovborg has +had the courage to live his life after his own fashion. And then-- +the last great act, with its beauty! Ah! that he should have the +will and the strength to turn away from the banquet of life--so early. + + +BRACK. + +I am sorry, Mrs. Hedda,--but I fear I must dispel an amiable illusion. + + +HEDDA. + +Illusion? + + +BRACK. + +Which could not have lasted long in any case. + + +HEDDA. + +What do you mean? + + +BRACK. + +Eilert Lovborg did not shoot himself--voluntarily. + + +HEDDA. + +Not voluntarily? + + +BRACK. + +No. The thing did not happen exactly as I told it. + + +HEDDA. + +[In suspense.] Have you concealed something? What is it? + + +BRACK. + +For poor Mrs. Elvsted's sake I idealised the facts a little. + + +HEDDA. + +What are the facts? + + +BRACK. + +First, that he is already dead. + + +HEDDA. + +At the hospital? + + +BRACK. + +Yes--without regaining consciousness. + + +HEDDA. + +What more have you concealed? + + +BRACK. + +This--the event did not happen at his lodgings. + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that can make no difference. + + +BRACK. + +Perhaps it may. For I must tell you--Eilert Lovborg was found shot +in--in Mademoiselle Diana's boudoir. + + +HEDDA. + +[Makes a motion as if to rise, but sinks back again.] That is +impossible, Judge Brack! He cannot have been there again to-day. + + +BRACK. + +He was there this afternoon. He went there, he said, to demand the +return of something which they had taken from him. Talked wildly +about a lost child--- + + +HEDDA. + +Ah--so that is why--- + + +BRACK. + +I thought probably he meant his manuscript; but now I hear he +destroyed that himself. So I suppose it must have been his pocket- +book. + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, no doubt. And there--there he was found? + + +BRACK. + +Yes, there. With a pistol in his breast-pocket, discharged. The +ball had lodged in a vital part. + + +HEDDA. + +In the breast--yes? + + +BRACK. + +No--in the bowels. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him with an expression of loathing.] That too! Oh, +what curse is it that makes everything I touch turn ludicrous and +mean? + + +BRACK. + +There is one point more, Mrs. Hedda--another disagreeable feature in +the affair. + + +HEDDA. + +And what is that? + + +BRACK. + +The pistol he carried--- + + +HEDDA. + +[Breathless.] Well? What of it? + + +BRACK. + +He must have stolen it. + + +HEDDA. + +[Leaps up.] Stolen it! That is not true! He did not steal it! + + +BRACK. + +No other explanation is possible. He must have stolen it---. Hush! + + + TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED have risen from the table in the back- + room, and come into the drawing-room. + + +TESMAN. + +[With the papers in both his hands.] Hedda, dear, it is almost +impossible to see under that lamp. Think of that! + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, I am thinking. + + +TESMAN. + +Would you mind our sitting at you writing-table--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +If you like. [Quickly.] No, wait! Let me clear it first! + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, you needn't trouble, Hedda. There is plenty of room. + + +HEDDA. + +No no, let me clear it, I say! I will take these things in and put +them on the piano. There! + [She has drawn out an object, covered with sheet music, from + under the bookcase, places several other pieces of music upon + it, and carries the whole into the inner room, to the left. + TESMAN lays the scraps of paper on the writing-table, and moves + the lamp there from the corner table. He and Mrs. Elvsted sit + down and proceed with their work. HEDDA returns. + + +HEDDA. + +[Behind Mrs. Elvsted's chair, gently ruffling her hair.] Well, my +sweet Thea,--how goes it with Eilert Lovborg's monument? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Looks dispiritedly up at her.] Oh, it will be terribly hard to put +in order. + + +TESMAN. + +We must manage it. I am determined. And arranging other people's +papers is just the work for me. + [HEDDA goes over to the stove, and seats herself on one of the + footstools. BRACK stands over her, leaning on the arm-chair. + + +HEDDA. + +[Whispers.] What did you say about the pistol? + + +BRACK. + +[Softly.] That he must have stolen it. + + +HEDDA. + +Why stolen it? + + +BRACK. + +Because every other explanation ought to be impossible, Mrs. Hedda. + + +HEDDA. + +Indeed? + + +BRACK. + +[Glances at her.] Of course Eilert Lovborg was here this morning. +Was he not? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes. + + +BRACK. + +Were you alone with him? + + +HEDDA. + +Part of the time. + + +BRACK. + +Did you not leave the room whilst he was here? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +BRACK. + +Try to recollect. Were you not out of the room a moment? + + +HEDDA. + +Yes, perhaps just a moment--out in the hall. + + +BRACK. + +And where was you pistol-case during that time? + + +HEDDA. + +I had it locked up in--- + + +BRACK. + +Well, Mrs. Hedda? + + +HEDDA. + +The case stood there on the writing-table. + + +BRACK. + +Have you looked since, to see whether both the pistols are there? + + +HEDDA. + +No. + + +BRACK. + +Well, you need not. I saw the pistol found in Lovborg's pocket, and +I knew it at once as the one I had seen yesterday--and before, too. + + +HEDDA. + +Have you it with you? + + +BRACK. + +No; the police have it. + + +HEDDA. + +What will the police do with it? + + +BRACK. + +Search till they find the owner. + + +HEDDA. + +Do you think they will succeed? + + +BRACK. + +[Bends over her and whispers.] No, Hedda Gabler--not so long as I +say nothing. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks frightened at him.] And if you do not say nothing,--what then? + + +BRACK. + +[Shrugs his shoulders.] There is always the possibility that the +pistol was stolen. + + +HEDDA. + +[Firmly.] Death rather than that. + + +BRACK. + +[Smiling.] People say such things--but they don't do them. + + +HEDDA. + +[Without replying.] And supposing the pistol was not stolen, and the +owner is discovered? What then? + + +BRACK. + +Well, Hedda--then comes the scandal! + + +HEDDA. + +The scandal! + + +BRACK. + +Yes, the scandal--of which you are so mortally afraid. You will, of +course, be brought before the court--both you and Mademoiselle Diana. +She will have to explain how the thing happened--whether it was an +accidental shot or murder. Did the pistol go off as he was trying to +take it out of his pocket, to threaten her with? Or did she tear the +pistol out of his hand, shoot him, and push it back into his pocket? +That would be quite like her; for she is an able-bodied young person, +this same Mademoiselle Diana. + + +HEDDA. + +But _I_ have nothing to do with all this repulsive business. + + +BRACK. + +No. But you will have to answer the question: Why did you give Eilert +the pistol? And what conclusions will people draw from the fact that +you did give it to him? + + +HEDDA. + +[Lets her head sink.] That is true. I did not think of that. + + +BRACK. + +Well, fortunately, there is no danger, so long as I say nothing. + + +HEDDA. + +[Looks up at him.] So I am in your power, Judge Brack. You have me +at your beck and call, from this time forward. + + +BRACK. + +[Whispers softly.] Dearest Hedda--believe me--I shall not abuse my +advantage. + + +HEDDA. + +I am in your power none the less. Subject to your will and your +demands. A slave, a slave then! [Rises impetuously.] No, I cannot +endure the thought of that! Never! + + +BRACK. + +[Looks half-mockingly at her.] People generally get used to the +inevitable. + + +HEDDA. + +[Returns his look.] Yes, perhaps. [She crosses to the writing-table. +Suppressing an involuntary smile, she imitates TESMAN'S intonations.] +Well? Are you getting on, George? Eh? + + +TESMAN. + +Heaven knows, dear. In any case it will be the work of months. + + +HEDDA. + +[As before.] Fancy that! [Passes her hands softly through Mrs. +Elvsted's hair.] Doesn't it seem strange to you, Thea? Here are you +sitting with Tesman--just as you used to sit with Eilert Lovborg? + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +Ah, if I could only inspire your husband in the same way! + + +HEDDA. + +Oh, that will come too--in time. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, do you know, Hedda--I really think I begin to feel something of +the sort. But won't you go and sit with Brack again? + + +HEDDA. + +Is there nothing I can do to help you two? + + +TESMAN. + +No, nothing in the world. [Turning his head.] I trust to you to keep +Hedda company, my dear Brack. + + +BRACK. + +[With a glance at HEDDA.] With the very greatest of pleasure. + + +HEDDA. + +Thanks. But I am tired this evening. I will go in and lie down a +little on the sofa. + + +TESMAN. + +Yes, do dear--eh? + [HEDDA goes into the back room and draws the curtains. A short + pause. Suddenly she is heard playing a wild dance on the piano. + + +MRS. ELVSTED. + +[Starts from her chair.] Oh--what is that? + + +TESMAN. + +[Runs to the doorway.] Why, my dearest Hedda--don't play dance-music +to-night! Just think of Aunt Rina! And of Eilert too! + + +HEDDA. + +[Puts her head out between the curtains.] And of Aunt Julia. And +of all the rest of them.--After this, I will be quiet. [Closes the +curtains again.] + + +TESMAN. + +[At the writing-table.] It's not good for her to see us at this +distressing work. I'll tell you what, Mrs. Elvsted,--you shall take +the empty room at Aunt Julia's, and then I will come over in the +evenings, and we can sit and work there--eh? + + +HEDDA. + +[In the inner room.] I hear what you are saying, Tesman. But how am +_I_ to get through the evenings out here? + + +TESMAN. + +[Turning over the papers.] Oh, I daresay Judge Brack will be so kind +as to look in now and then, even though I am out. + + +BRACK. + +[In the arm-chair, calls out gaily.] Every blessed evening, with +all the pleasure in life, Mrs. Tesman! We shall get on capitally +together, we two! + + +HEDDA. + +[Speaking loud and clear.] Yes, don't you flatter yourself we will, +Judge Brack? Now that you are the one cock in the basket--- + [A shot is heard within. TESMAN, MRS. ELVSTED, and BRACK leap + to their feet. + + +TESMAN. + +Oh, now she is playing with those pistols again. + [He throws back the curtains and runs in, followed by MRS. + ELVSTED. HEDDA lies stretched on the sofa, lifeless. + Confusion and cries. BERTA enters in alarm from the right. + + +TESMAN. + +[Shrieks to BRACK.] Shot herself! Shot herself in the temple! +Fancy that! + + +BRACK. + +[Half-fainting in the arm-chair.] Good God!--people don't do +such things. + + +THE END + + + +FOOTNOTES. + + +(1)Pronounce _Reena_. + +(2)In the original "Statsradinde Falks villa"--showing that it had + belonged to the widow of a cabinet minister. + +(3)_Du_ equals thou: Tesman means, "If you could persuade yourself + to _tutoyer_ her." + +(4)See previous note. + +(5)Pronounce _Tora_ and _Taya_. + +(6)Mrs. Elvsted here uses the formal pronoun _De_, whereupon Hedda + rebukes her. In her next speech Mrs. Elvsted says _du_. + +(7)"Bagveje" means both "back ways" and "underhand courses." + +(8)As this form of address is contrary to English usage, and as the + note of familiarity would be lacking in "Mrs. Tesman," Brack may, + in stage representation, say "Miss Hedda," thus ignoring her + marriage and reverting to the form of address no doubt customarry + between them of old. + +(9)He uses the familiar _du_. + +(10)From this point onward Lovborg use the formal _De_. + +(11)In this speech he once more says _du_. Hedda addresses him + throughout as _De_. + +(12)"Enest hane i kurven"--a proverbial saying. + +(13)Literally, "That you burn for me." + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Etext of Hedda Gabler, by Henrik Ibsen + diff --git a/old/hddgb10.zip b/old/hddgb10.zip Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..dfbdbb2 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/hddgb10.zip |