.

[After a short pause.] So we have found a use for one our nurseries
after all, Aline.

MRS. SOLNESS.

Yes, we have.

SOLNESS.

That seems to me better than to have them all standing empty.

MRS. SOLNESS.

That emptiness is dreadful; you are right there.

SOLNESS.

[Closes the portfolio, rises and approaches her.] You will find that
we shall get on far better after this, Aline. Things will be more
comfortable. Life will be easier--especially for you.

MRS. SOLNESS.

[Looks at him.] After this?

SOLNESS.

Yes, believe me, Aline--

MRS. SOLNESS.

Do you mean--because she has come here?

SOLNESS.

[Checking himself.] I mean, of course--when once we have moved into the
new home.

MRS. SOLNESS.

[Takes her cloak.] Ah, do you think so, Halvard? Will it be better then?

SOLNESS.

I can't think otherwise. And surely you think so too?

MRS. SOLNESS.

I think nothing at all about the new house.

SOLNESS.

[Cast down.] It's hard for me to hear you say that; for you know it is
mainly for your sake that I have built it.

[He offers to help her on with her cloak.

MRS. SOLNESS.

[Evades him.] The fact is, you do far too much for my sake.

SOLNESS.

[With a certain vehemence.] No, no, you really mustn't say that, Aline!
I cannot bear to hear you say such things!

MRS. SOLNESS.

Very well, then I won't say it, Halvard.

SOLNESS.

But I stick to what _I_ said. You'll see that things will be easier for
you in the new place.

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh, heavens--easier for me--!

SOLNESS.

[Eagerly.] Yes, indeed they will! You may be quite sure of that! For you
see--there will be so very, very much there that will remind you of your
own home--

MRS. SOLNESS.

The home that used to be father's and mother's--and that was burnt to
the ground--

SOLNESS.

[In a low voice.] Yes, yes, my poor Aline. That was a terrible blow for
you.

MRS. SOLNESS.

[Breaking out in lamentation.] You may build as much as ever you like,
Halvard--you can never build up again a real home for me!

SOLNESS.

[Crosses the room.] Well, in Heaven's name, let us talk no more about it
then.

MRS. SOLNESS.

We are not in the habit of talking about it. For you always put the
thought away from you--

SOLNESS.

[Stops suddenly and looks at her.] Do I? And why should I do that? Put
the thought away from me?

MRS. SOLNESS.

Oh yes, Halvard, I understan