ible.

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