Ibsen Little Wolf

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LITTLE EYOLFBy

Henrik Ibsen Translated, With an Introduction, by William Archer

A Penn State Electronic Classics Series Publication



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Ibsen

LITTLE EYOLF

By Henrik Ibsen Translated, With an Introduction, by

William Archer

INTRODUCTION

Little Eyolf was written in Christiania during 1894, and pub-

lished in Copenhagen on December 11 in that year. By this

time Ibsen’s correspondence has become so scanty as to af-

ford us no clue to what may be called the biographical ante-cedents of the play. Even of anecdotic history very little at-

taches to it. For only one of the characters has a definite

model been suggested. Ibsen himself told his French trans-

lator, Count Prozor, that the original of the Rat-Wife was “a

little old woman who came to kill rats at the school where he

was educated. She carried a little dog in a bag, and it was

said that children had been drowned through following her.”

This means that Ibsen did not himself adapt to his uses the

legend so familiar to us in Browning’sPied Piper of Hamelin,

but found it ready adapted by the popular imagination of hisnative place, Skien. “This idea,” Ibsen continued to Count

Prozor, “was just what I wanted for bringing about the disap-

pearance of Little Eyolf, in whom the infatuation* and the

feebleness of his father reproduced, but concentrated, exag-

gerated, as one often sees them in the son of such a father.”

Dr. Elias tells us that a well-known lady-artist, who in middlelife suggested to him the figure of Lona Hessel, was in later

years the model for the Rat-Wife. There is no inconsistency

between these two accounts of the matter. The idea was doubt-

less suggested by his recollection of the rat-catcher of Skien,

while traits of manner and physiognomy might be borrowed

from the lady in question.

The verse quoted on pp. 52 and 53** is the last line of a

* The French word used by Count Prozor is “infatuation.” I canthink of no other rendering for it; but I do not quite know what itmeans as applied to Allmers and Eyolf.** “There stood the champagne,” etc., in ACT I.



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LittleEyolf

very well-known poem by Johan Sebastian Welhaven, en-

titledRepublikanerne, written in 1839. An unknown guest

in a Paris restaurant has been challenged by a noisy party

of young Frenchmen to join them in drinking a health to

Poland. He refuses; they denounce him as a craven and aslave; he bares his breast and shows the scars of wounds

received in fighting for the country whose lost cause has

become a subject for conventional enthusiasm and windy

rhetoric.

“De saae pas hverandre. Han vandred sin vei.De havde champagne, men rörte den ei.”

“They looked at each other. He went on his way. There stood

their champagne, but they did not touch it.” The champagne

incident leads me to wonder whether the relation between

Rita and Allmers may not have been partly suggested toIbsen by the relation between Charlotte Stieglitz and her

weakling of a husband. Their story must have been known

to him through George Brandes’s Young Germany, if not more

directly. “From time to time,” says Dr. Brandes, “there came

over her what she calls her champagne-mood; she grieves

that this is no longer the case with him.”* Did the germ of

the incident lie in these words?

The first performance of the play in Norway took place at

the Christiania Theatre on January 15, 1895, Fru Wettergren

playing Rita And Fru Dybwad, Asta. In Copenhagen (March13, 1895) Fru Oda Nielsen and Fru Hennings played Rita

and Asta respectively, while Emil Poulsen played Allmers.

The first German Rita (Deutsches Theater, Berlin, January

12, 1895) was Frau Agnes Sorma, with Reicher as Allmers.

Six weeks later Frl. Sandrock played Rita at the Burgtheater,

Vienna. In May 1895 the play was acted by M. Lugné-Poë’scompany in Paris. The first performance in English took

place at the Avenue Theatre, London, on the afternoon of

November 23, 1896, with Miss Janet Achurch as Rita, Miss

Elizabeth Robins as Asta, and Mrs. Patrick Campbell as

the Rat-Wife. Miss Achurch’s Rita made a profound im-

pression. Mrs. Patrick Campbell afterwards played the part

in a short series of evening performances. In the spring of

1895 the play was acted in Chicago by a company of Scan-

dinavian amateurs, presumably in Norwegian. Fru Oda

* Main Currents of Nineteenth Century Literature,vol. vi. p. 299.



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Nielsen has recently (I understand) given some perfor-

mances of it in New York, and Madame Alla Nazimova has

announced it for production during the coming season (1907-

1908).

As the external history of Little Eyolf is so short. I amtempted to depart from my usual practice, and say a few

words as to its matter and meaning.

George Brandes, writing of this play, has rightly observed

that “a kind of dualism has always been perceptible in Ibsen;

he pleads the cause of Nature, and he castigates Nature

with mystic morality; only sometimes Nature is allowed thefirst voice, sometimes morality. In The Master Builder and

in Ghosts the lover of Nature in Ibsen was predominant;

here, as in Brandand The Wild Duck, the castigator is in

the ascendant.” So clearly is this the case in Little Eyolf

that Ibsen seems almost to fall into line with Mr. Thomas

Hardy. To say nothing of analogies of detail between Little

Eyolf and J ude the Obscure, there is this radical analogy,

that they are both utterances of a profound pessimism, both

indictments of Nature.

But while Mr. Hardy’s pessimism is plaintive and pas-

sive, Ibsen’s is stoical and almost bracing. It is true that in

this play he is no longer the mere “indignation pessimist”

whom Dr. Brandes quite justly recognised in his earlier

works. His analysis has gone deeper into the heart of things,

and he has put off the satirist and the iconoclast. But thereis in his thought an incompressible energy of revolt. A pes-

simist in contemplation, he remains a meliorist in action.

He is not, like Mr. Hardy, content to let the flag droop half-

mast high; his protagonist still runs it up to the mast-head,

and looks forward steadily to the “heavy day of work” be-

fore him. But although the note of the conclusion is reso-lute, almost serene, the play remains none the less an in-

dictment of Nature, or at least of that egoism of passion

which is one of her most potent subtleties. In this view,

Allmers becomes a type of what we may roughly call the

“free moral agent”; Eyolf, a type of humanity conceived as

passive and suffering, thrust will-less into existence, with

boundless aspirations and cruelly limited powers; Rita, a

type of the egoistic instinct which is “a consuming fire”;

and Asta, a type of the beneficent love which is possible

only so long as it is exempt from “the law of change.”



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LittleEyolf

Allmers, then, is self-conscious egoism, egoism which can

now and then break its chains, look in its own visage, realise

and shrink from itself; while Rita, until she has passed

through the awful crisis which forms the matter of the play,

is unconscious, reckless, and ruthless egoism, exigent and jealous, “holding to its rights,” and incapable even of ris-

ing into the secondary stage of maternal love. The offspring

and the victim of these egoisms is Eyolf, “little wounded

warrior,” who longs to scale the heights and dive into the

depths, but must remain for ever chained to the crutch of

human infirmity. For years Allmers has been a restless andhalf-reluctant slave to Rita’s imperious temperament. He

has dreamed and theorised about “responsibility,” and has

kept Eyolf poring over his books, in the hope that, despite

his misfortune, he may one day minister to parental vanity.

Finally he breaks away from Rita, for the first time “in all

these ten years,” goes up “into the infinite solitudes,” looks

Death in the face, and returns shrinking from passion, yearn-

ing towards selfless love, and filled with a profound and

remorseful pity for the lot of poor maimed humanity. He

will “help Eyolf to bring his desires into harmony with what

lies attainable before him.” He will “create a conscious

happiness in his mind.” And here the drama opens.

Before the Rat-Wife enters, let me pause for a moment to

point out that here again Ibsen adopts that characteristic

method which, in writing of The Lady from the Seaand The

Master Builder,I have compared to the method of Hawthorne.

The story he tells is not really, or rather not inevitably, su-

pernatural. Everything is explicable within this limits of

nature; but supernatural agency is also vaguely suggested,

and the reader’s imagination is stimulated, without any ab-

solute violence to his sense of reality. On the plane of ev-eryday life, then, the Rat-Wife is a crazy and uncanny old

woman, fabled by the peasants to be a were-wolf in her lei-

sure moments, who goes about the country killing vermin.

Coming across an impressionable child, she tells him a pre-

posterous tale, adapted from the old “Pied Piper” legends,

of her method of fascinating her victims. The child, whose

imagination has long dwelt on this personage, is in fact hyp-

notised by her, follows her down to the sea, and, watching

her row away, turns dizzy, falls in, and is drowned. There is

nothing impossible, nothing even improbable, in this. At



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the same time, there cannot be the least doubt, I think, that

in the poet’s mind the Rat-Wife is the symbol of Death, of

the “still, soft darkness” that is at once so fearful and so

fascinating to humanity. This is clear not only in the text of

her single scene, but in the fact that Allmers, in the lastact, treats her and his “fellow-traveller” of that night among

the mountains, not precisely as identical, but as interchange-

able, ideas. To tell the truth, I have even my own suspicions

as to who is meant by “her sweetheart,” whom she “lured”

long ago, and who is now “down where all the rats are.”

This theory I shall keep to myself; it may be purely fantas-tic, and is at best inessential. What is certain is that death

carries off Little Eyolf, and that, of all he was, only the crutch

is left, mute witness to his hapless lot.

He is gone; there was so little to bind him to life that he

made not even a moment’s struggle against the allurement

of the “long, sweet sleep.” Then, for the first time, the depth

of the egoism which had created and conditioned his little

life bursts upon his parents’ horror-stricken gaze. Like ac-

complices in crime, they turn upon and accuse each other—

”sorrow makes them wicked and hateful.” Allmers, as the

one whose eyes were already half opened, is the first to

carry war into the enemy’s country; but Rita is not slow to

retort, and presently they both have to admit that their re-

criminations are only a vain attempt to drown the voice of

self-reproach. In a sort of fierce frenzy they tear away veilafter veil from their souls, until they realise that Eyolf never

existed at all, so to speak, for his own sake, but only for the

sake of their passions and vanities. “Isn’t it curious,” says

Rita, summing up the matter, “that we should grieve like

this over a little stranger boy?”

In blind self-absorption they have played with life anddeath, and now “the great open eyes” of the stranger boy

will be for ever upon them. Allmers would fain take refuge

in a love untainted by the egoism, and unexposed to the

revulsions, of passion. But not only is Asta’s pity for Rita

too strong to let her countenance this desertion: she has

discovered that her relation to Allmers isnot“exempt from

the law of change,” and she “takes flight from him—and

from herself.” Meanwhile it appears that the agony which

Allmers and Rita have endured in probing their wounds

has been, as Halvard Solness would say, “salutary self-tor-



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LittleEyolf

ture.” The consuming fire of passion is now quenched, but

“it, has left an empty place within them,” and they feel it

common need “to fill it up with something that is a little

like love.” They come to remember that there are other chil-

dren in the world on whom reckless instinct has thrust thegift, of life—neglected children, stunted and maimed in

mind if not in body. And now that her egoism is seared to

the quick, the mother-instinct asserts itself in Rita. She will

take these children to her—these children to whom her hand

and her heart have hitherto been closed. They shall be out-

wardly in Eyolf’s place, and perhaps in time they may fillthe place in her heart that should have been Eyolf’s. Thus

she will try to “make her peace with the great open eyes.”

For now, at last, she has divined the secret of the unwritten

book on “human responsibility” and has realised that moth-

erhood means—atonement.

So I read this terrible and beautiful work of art. This, I

think, isameaning inherent in it—not perhaps themean-

ing, and still less all the meanings. Indeed, its peculiar fas-

cination for me, among all Ibsen’s works, lies in the fact

that it seems to touch life at so many different points. But I

must not be understood as implying that Ibsen constructed

the play with any such definitely allegoric design as is here

set forth. I do not believe that this creator of men and women

ever started from an abstract conception. He did not first

compose his philosophic tune and then set his puppets danc-ing to it. The germ in his mind was dramatic, not ethical; it

was only as the drama developed that its meanings dawned

upon him; and he left them implicit and fragmentary, like

the symbolism of life itself, seldom formulated, never worked

out with schematic precision. He simply took a cutting from

the tree of life, and, planting it in the rich soil of his imagi-nation, let it ramify and burgeon as it would.

Even if one did not know the date of Little Eyolf,one could

confidently assign it to the latest period of Ibsen’s career,

on noting a certain difference of scale between its founda-

tions and its superstructure. In his earlier plays, down to

and includingHedda Gabler, we feel his invention at work

to the very last moment, often with more intensity in the

last act than in the first; in his later plays he seems to be in

haste to pass as early as possible from invention to pure

analysis. In this play, after the death of Eyolf (surely one of



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the most inspired “situations” in all drama) there is practi-

cally no external action whatsoever. Nothing happens save

in the souls of the characters; there is no further invention,

but rather what one may perhaps call inquisition. This does

not prevent the second act from being quite the most poi-gnant or the third act from being one of the most moving

that Ibsen ever wrote. Far from wishing to depreciate the

play, I rate it more highly, perhaps, than most critics—among

the very greatest of Ibsen’s achievements. I merely note as

a characteristic of the poet’s latest manner this disparity of

scale between the work foreshadowed, so to speak, and thework completed. We shall find it still more evident in the

case of J ohn Gabriel Borkman.

LITTLE EYOLF(1894)

CHARACTERS

ALFRED ALLMERS, landed proprietor and man of lettersformerly a tutor.MRS. RITA ALLMERS, his wife.EYOLF, their child, nine years old.MISS ASTA ALLMERS, Alfred’s younger half-sister.ENGINEER BORGHEIM.

THE RAT-WIFE.

The action takes place on ALLMERS’S property, borderingon the fjord, twelve or fourteen miles from Christiania.

PLAY IN THREE ACTS



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ACT FIRST

[A pretty and richly-decorated garden-room, full of furni-ture, flowers, and plants. At the back, open glass doors, lead-ing out to a verandah. An extensive view over the fiord. Inthe distance, wooded hillsides. A door in each of the sidewalls, the one on the right a folding door, placed far back. Infront on the right, a sofa, with cushions and rugs. Beside thesofa, a small table, and chairs. In front, on the left, a larger

table, with arm-chairs around it. On the table stands an openhand-bag. It is an early summer morning, with warm sun-shine.]

[Mrs. RITA ALLMERS stands beside the table, facing to-wards the left, engaged in unpacking the bag. She is a hand-some, rather tall, well-developed blonde, about thirty yearsof age, dressed in a light-coloured morning-gown.]

[Shortly after, MissASTA ALLMERS enters by the door onthe right, wearing a light brown summer dress, with hat,

jacket, and parasol. Under her arm she carries a locked port-folio of considerable size. She is slim, of middle height, withdark hair, and deep, earnest eyes. Twenty-five years old.]

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [As she enters.] Good-morning, my dear Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Turns her head, and nods to her.] What! is that you,Asta? Come all the way from town so early?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Takes of her things, and lays them on a chair besidethe door.] Yes, such a restless feeling came over me. I felt Imust come out to-day, and see how little Eyolf was gettingon—and you too. [Lays the portfolio on the table beside thesofa.] So I took the steamer, and here I am.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Smiling to her.] And I daresay you met one or other

of your friends on board? Quite by chance, of course.ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quietly.] No, I did not meet a soul I knew. [Sees thebag.] Why, Rita, what have you got there?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Still unpacking.] Alfred’s travelling-bag. Don’t yourecognise it?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ J oyfully, approaching her.] What! Has Alfred comehome?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, only think—he came quite unexpectedly by thelate train last night.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, then that was what my feeling meant! It was

Ib



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that that drew me out here! And he hadn’t written a line tolet you know? Not even a post-card?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not a single word.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Did he not even telegraph?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, an hour before he arrived—quite curtly andcoldly. [Laughs.] Don’t you think that was like him, Asta?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes; he goes so quietly about everything.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But that made it all the more delightful to have himagain.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I am sure it would.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. A whole fortnight before I expected him!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And is he quite well? Not in low spirits?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Closes the bag with a snap, and smiles at her.] Helooked quite transfigured as he stood in the doorway.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And was he not the least bit tired either?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, yes, he seemed to be tired enough—very tired,

in fact. But, poor fellow, he had come on foot the greaterpart of the way.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And then perhaps the high mountain air may havebeen rather too keen for him.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, no; I don’t think so at all. I haven’t heard himcough once.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Ah, there you see now! It was a good thing, after all,that the doctor talked him into taking this tour.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, now that it is safely over.—But I can tell you ithas been a terrible time for me, Asta. I have never cared totalk about it—and you so seldom came out to see me, too—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I daresay that wasn’t very nice of me—but—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well, well, well, of course you had your school toattend to in town. [Smiling.] And then our road-maker

friend—of course he was away too.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, don’t talk like that, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Very well, then; we will leave the road-maker out of the question.—You can’t think how I have been longing forAlfred! How empty the place seemed! How desolate! Ugh,

Littl E lf



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LittleEyolf

it felt as if there had been a funeral in the house!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Why, dear me, only six or seven weeks—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes; but you must remember that Alfred has never

been away from me before—never so much as twenty-fourhours. Not once in all these ten years.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No; but that is just why I really think it was hightime he should have a little outing this year. He ought tohave gone for a tramp in the mountains every summer—hereally ought.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Half smiling.] Oh yes, it’s all very well fair you totalk. If I were as—as reasonable its you, I suppose I shouldhave let him go before—perhaps. But I positively could not,Asta! It seemed to me I should never get him back again.Surely you can understand that?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No. But I daresay that is because I have no one to

lose.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a teasing smile.] Really? No one at all?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Not that I know of. [Changing the subject.] But tellme, Rita, where is Alfred? Is he still asleep?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, not at all. He got up as early as ever to-day.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Then he can’t have been so very tired after all.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, he was last night—when he arrived. But now he

has had little Eyolf with him in his room for a whole hourand more.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Poor little white-faced boy! Has he to be for ever athis lessons again?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a slight shrug.] Alfred will have it so, you know.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes; but I think you ought to put down your footabout it, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Somewhat impatiently.] Oh no; come now, I reallycannot meddle with that. Alfred knows so much better aboutthese things than I do. And what would you have Eyolf do?He can’t run about and play, you see—like other children.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With decision.] I will talk to Alfred about this.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, do; I wish you would.—Oh! here he is.

[ALFRED ALLMERS, dressed in light summer clothes, en-ters by the door on the left, leadingEYOLF by the hand. He

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is a slim, lightly-built man of about thirty-six or thirty-seven,with gentle eyes, and thin brown hair and beard. His expres-sion is serious and thoughtful. EYOLF wears a suit cut likea uniform, with gold braid and gilt military buttons. He islame, and walks with a crutch under his left arm. His leg is

shrunken. He is undersized, and looks delicate, but has beau-tiful intelligent eyes.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [DropsEYOLF’s hand, goes up toASTA withan expression of marked pleasure, and holds out both hishands to her.] Asta! My dearest Asta! To think of your com-ing! To think of my seeing you so soon!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I felt I must—. Welcome home again!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking her hands.] Thank you for coming.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Doesn’t he look well?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Gazes fixedly at him.] Splendid! Quite splendid!

His eyes are so much brighter! And I suppose you havedone a great deal of writing on your travels? [With an out-burst of joy.] I shouldn’t wonder if you had finished the wholebook, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shrugging his shoulders.] The book? Oh, thebook—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I was sure you would find it go so easily whenonce you got away.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. So I thought too. But, do you know, I didn’tfind it so at all. The truth is, I have not written a line of the

book.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Not a line?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oho! I wondered when I found all the paper lyinguntouched in your bag.

ASTASTASTASTAST

AAAAA. But, my dear Alfred, what have you been doing all

this time?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Smiling.] Only thinking and thinking andthinking.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Putting her arm round his neck.] And thinking alittle, too, of those you had left at home?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, you may be sure of that. I have thought agreat deal of you—every single day.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Taking her arm away.] Ah, that is all I care about.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But you haven’t even touched the book! And yet

LittleEyolf



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LittleEyolf

you can look so happy and contented! That is not what yougenerally do—I mean when your work is going badly.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. You are right there. You see, I have been sucha fool hitherto. All the best that is in you goes into thinking.

What you put on paper is worth very little.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Exclaiming.] Worth very little!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Laughing.] What an absurd thing to say, Alfred.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Looks confidingly up at him.] Oh yes, Papa, whatyou write is worth a great deal!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Smiling and stroking his hair.] Well, well, sinceyou say so.—But I can tell you, some one is coming afterme who will do it better.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Who can that be? Oh, tell me!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Only wait—you may be sure he will come, andlet us hear of him.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And what will you do then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Seriously.] Then I will go to the mountainsagain—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Fie, Alfred! For shame!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS.—up to the peaks and the great waste places.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Papa, don’t you think I shall soon be well enough

for you to take me with you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With painful emotion.] Oh, yes, perhaps, mylittle boy.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. It would be so splendid, you know, if I could climbthe mountains, like you.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Changing the subject.] Why, how beautifully youare dressed to-day, Eyolf!

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Yes, don’t you think so, Auntie?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, indeed. Is it in honour of Papa that you havegot your new clothes on?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Yes, I asked Mama to let me. I wanted so to letPapa see me in them.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a low voice, to RITA.] You shouldn’t havegiven him clothes like that.

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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [In a low voice.] Oh, he has teased me so long aboutthem—he had set his heart on them. He gave me no peace.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And I forgot to tell you, Papa—Borgheim hasbought me a new bow. And he has taught me how to shoot

with it too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Ah, there now—that’s just the sort of thing foryou, Eyolf.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And next time he comes, I shall ask him to teachme to swim, too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. To swim! Oh, what makes you want to learnswimming?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Well, you know, all the boys down at the beachcan swim. I am the only one that can’t.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With emotion, taking him in his arms.] You

shall learn whatever you like—everything you really wantto.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Then do you know what I want most of all, Papa?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No; tell me.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. I want most of all to be a soldier.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, little Eyolf, there are many, many otherthings that are better than that.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Ah, but when I grow big, then I shall have to be asoldier. You know that, don’t you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Clenching his hands together.] Well, well, well:we shall see—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Seating herself at the table on the left.] Eyolf! Comehere to me, and I will tell you something.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Goes up to her.] What is it, Auntie?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. What do you think, Eyolf—I have seen the Rat-Wife.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. What! Seen the Rat-Wife! Oh, you’re only making

a fool of me!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No; it’s quite true. I saw her yesterday.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Where did you see her?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I saw her on the road, outside the town.

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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I saw her, too, somewhere up in the country.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Who is sitting on the sofa.] Perhaps it will be outturn to see her next, Eyolf.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Auntie, isn’t it strange that she should be calledthe Rat-Wife?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, people just give her that name because she wan-ders round the country driving away all the rats.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I have heard that her real name is Varg.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Varg! That means a wolf, doesn’t it?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Patting him on the head.] So you know that,do you?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Cautiously.] Then perhaps it may be true, afterall, that she is a were-wolf at night. Do you believe that,

Papa?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, no; I don’t believe it. Now you ought to goand play a little in the garden.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Should I not take some books with me?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, no books after this. You had better go downto the beach to the other boys.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Shyly.] No, Papa, I won’t go down to the boys to-day.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why not?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Oh, because I have these clothes on.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Knitting his brows.] Do you mean that theymake fun of—of your pretty clothes?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Evasively.] No, they daren’t—for then I wouldthrash them.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Aha!—then why—?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. You see, they are so naughty, these boys. And thenthey say I can never be a soldier.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With suppressed indignation.] Why do they saythat, do you think?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. I suppose they are jealous of me. For you know,Papa, they are so poor, they have to go about barefoot.

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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Softly, with choking voice.] Oh, Rita—how itwrings my heart!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Soothingly, rising.] There, there, there!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Threateningly.] But these rascals shall soonfind out who is the master down at the beach!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Listening.] There is some one knocking.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Oh, I’m sure it’s Borgheim!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Come in.

[ TheRAT-WIFE comes softly and noiselessly in by the dooron the right. She is a thin little shrunken figure, old andgrey-haired, with keen, piercing eyes, dressed in an old-fash-ioned flowered gown, with a black hood and cloak. She hasin her hand a large red umbrella, and carries a black bag bya loop over her arm.]

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Softly, taking hold of ASTA’s dress.] Auntie! Thatmust surely be her!

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Curtseying at the door.] I humbly begpardon—but are your worships troubled with any gnawingthings in the house?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Here? No, I don’t think so.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. For it would be such a pleasure to me torid your worships’ house of them.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, yes; we understand. But we have nothing of thesort here.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. That’s very unlucky, that is; for I justhappened to be on my rounds now, and goodness knowswhen I may be in these parts again.—Oh, how tired I am!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Pointing to a chair.] Yes, you look tired.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. I know one ought never to get tired of doing good to the poor little things that are hated and per-secuted so cruelly. But it takes your strength out of you, itdoes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Won’t you sit down and rest a little?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. I thank your ladyship with all my heart.[Seats herself on a chair between the door and the sofa.] Ihave been out all night at my work.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Have you indeed?

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THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Yes, over on the islands. [With a chuck-ling laugh.] The people sent for me, I can assure you. Theydidn’t like it a bit; but there was nothing else to be done.

They had to put a good face on it, and bite the sour apple.[Looks atEYOLF, and nods.] The sour apple, little master,

the sour apple.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Involuntarily, a little timidly.] Why did they haveto—?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. What?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. To bite it?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Why, because they couldn’t keep bodyand soul together on account of the rats and all the littlerat-children, you see, young master.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Ugh! Poor people! Have they so many of them?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Yes, it was all alive and swarming withthem. [Laughs with quiet glee.] They came creepy-crawlyup into the beds all night long. They plumped into the milk-cans, and they went pittering and pattering all over the floor,backwards and forwards, and up and down.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Softly, toASTA.] I shall never go there, Auntie.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. But then I came—I, and another alongwith me. And we took them with us, every one—the sweetlittle creatures! We made an end of every one of them.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [With a shriek.] Papa—look! look!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Good Heavens, Eyolf!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What’s the matter?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Pointing.] There’s something wriggling in the bag!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [At the extreme left, shrieks.] Ugh! Send her away,Alfred.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Laughing.] Oh, dearest lady, you needn’tbe frightened of such a little mannikin.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But what is the thing?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Why, it’s only little Mopsëman. [Loosen-ing the string of the bag.] Come up out of the dark, my ownlittle darling friend.

[A little dog with a broad black snout pokes its head out of the bag.]

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THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Nodding and beckoning to EYOLF.]Come along, don’t be afraid, my little wounded warrior! Hewon’t bite. Come here! Come here!

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Clinging toASTA.] No, I dare not.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Don’t you think he has a gentle, lovablecountenance, my young master?

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Astonished, pointing.] That thing there?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Yes, this thing here.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Almost under his breath, staring fixedly at the dog.]I think he has the horriblest—countenance I ever saw.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Closing the bag.] Oh, it will come—itwill come, right enough.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Involuntarily drawing nearer, at last goes right up

to her, and strokes the bag.] But he is lovely—lovely all thesame.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [In a tone of caution.] But now he is sotired and weary, poor thing. He’s utterly tired out, he is.[Looks atALLMERS.] For it takes the strength out of you,that sort of game, I can tell you, sir.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What sort of game do you mean?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. The luring game.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Do you mean that it is the dog that lures the

rats?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Nodding.] Mopsëman and I—we twodo it together. And it goes so smoothly—for all you can see,at any rate. I just slip a string through his collar, and then Ilead him three times round the house, and play on my Pan’s-pipes. When they hear that, they have got to come up fromthe cellars, and down from the garrets, and out of flour boles,all the blessed little creatures.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And does he bite them to death then?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Oh, not at all! No, we go down to theboat, he and I do—and then they follow after us, both thebig ones and the little ratikins.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Eagerly.] And what then—tell me!

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Then we push out from the land, and Iscull with one oar, and play on my Pan’s-pipes. AndMopsëman, he swims behind. [With glittering eyes.] And allthe creepers and crawlers, they follow and follow us out

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y

into the deep, deep waters. Ay, for they have to.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Why do they have to?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. J ust because they want not to—just be-

cause they are so deadly afraid of the water. That is whythey have got to plunge into it.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. Are they drowned, then?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Every blessed one. [More softly.] Andthere it is all as still, and soft, and dark as their hearts candesire, the lovely little things. Down there they sleep a long,sweet sleep, with no one to hate them or persecute themany more. [Rises.] In the old days, I can tell you, I didn’tneed any MopsÃ«man. Then I did the luring myself—Ialone.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And what did you lure then?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Men. One most of all.

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [With eagerness.] Oh, who was that one? Tell me!

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Laughing.] It was my own sweetheart,it was, little heart-breaker!

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. And where is he now, then?

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. [Harshly.] Down where all the rats are.[Resuming her milder tone.] But now I must be off and get tobusiness again. Always on the move. [ To RITA.] So your

ladyship has no sort of use for me to-day? I could finish itall off while I am about it.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, thank you; I don’t think we require anything.

THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA THE RA T T T T T-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE-WIFE. Well, well, your sweet ladyship, you cannever tell. If your ladyship should find that there is any-thing lure that keeps nibbling and gnawing, and creepingand crawling, then just see and get hold of me andMopsëman.—Good-bye, good-bye, a kind good-bye to youall. [She goes out by the door on the right.]

EYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLFEYOLF. [Softly and triumphantly, to ASTA.] Only think,Auntie, now I have seen the Rat-Wife too!

[RITA goes out upon the verandah, and fans herself with herpocket-handkerchief. Shortly afterwards, EYOLF slips cau-tiously and unnoticed out to the right.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Takes up the portfolio from the table by thesofa.] Is this your portfolio, Asta?

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ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes. I have some of the old letters in it.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Ah, the family letters—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You know you asked me to arrange them for you

while you were away.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Pats her on the head.] And you have actuallyfound time to do that, dear?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, yes. I have done it partly out here and partly atmy own rooms in town.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Thanks, dear. Did you find anything particu-lar in them?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Lightly.] Oh, you know you always find somethingor other in such old papers. [Speaking lower and seriously.]It is the letters to mother that are in this portfolio.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Those, of course, you must keep yourself.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With an effort.] No; I am determined that you shalllook through them, too, Alfred. Some time—later on in life.I haven’t the key of the portfolio with me just now.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It doesn’t matter, my dear Asta, for I shall never

read your mother’s letters in any case.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Fixing her eyes on him.] Then some time or other—some quiet evening—I will tell you a little of what is in them.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, that will be much better. But do you keepyour mother’s letters—you haven’t so many mementos of her.

[He handsASTA the portfolio. She takes it, and lays it onthe chair under her outdoor things. RITAcomes into the roomagain.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Ugh! I feel as if that horrible old woman had broughta sort of graveyard smell with her.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, she was rather horrible.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I felt almost sick while she was in the room.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. However, I can very well understand the sortof spellbound fascination that she talked about. The loneli-ness of the mountain-peaks and of the great waste placeshas something of the same magic about it.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks attentively at him.] What is it that has hap-pened to you, Alfred?

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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Smiling.] To me?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, something has happened—something seemsalmost to have transformed you. Rita noticed it too.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, I saw it the moment you came. A change for thebetter, I hope, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It ought to be for the better. And it must andshall come to good.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With an outburst.] You have had some adventure onyour journey! Don’t deny it! I can see it in your face!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] No adventure in theworld—outwardly at least. But—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Eagerly.] But—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It is true that within me there has been some-

thing of a revolution.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh Heavens—!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Soothingly, patting her hand.] Only for thebetter, my dear Rita. You may be perfectly certain of that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Seats herself on the sofa.] You must tell us all aboutit, at once—tell us everything!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Turning toASTA.] Yes, let us sit down, too,Asta. Then I will try to tell you as well as I can.

[He seats himself on the sofa at RITA’s side. ASTA moves achair forward, and places herself near him.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking at him expectantly.] Well—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gazing straight before him.] When I look backover my life—and my fortunes—for the last ten or elevenyears, it seems to me almost like a fairy-tale or a dream.Don’t you think so too, Asta?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, in many ways I think so.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Continuing.] When I remember what we twoused to be, Asta—we two poor orphan children—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Impatiently.] Oh, that is such an old, old story.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Not listening to her.] And now here I am incomfort and luxury. I have been able to follow my vocation.I have been able to work and study—just as I had alwayslonged to. [Holds out his hand.] And all this great—this

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fabulous good fortune we owe to you, my dearest Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Half playfully, half angrily, slaps his hand.] Oh, Ido wish you would stop talking like that.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I speak of it only as a sort of introduction.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then do skip the introduction!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Rita,—you must not think it was the doctor’sadvice that drove me up to the mountains.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Was it not, Alfred?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. What was it, then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It was this: I found there was no more peacefor me, there in my study.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No peace! Why, who disturbed you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] No one from without. But Ifelt as though I were positively abusing—or, say rather,wasting—my best powers—frittering away the time.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With wide eyes.] When you were writing at yourbook?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nodding.] For I cannot think that my powersare confined to that alone. I must surely have it in me to doone or two other things as well.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Was that what you sat there brooding over?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, mainly that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And so that is what has made you so discontentedwith yourself of late; and with the rest of us as well. For youknow you were discontented, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gazing straight before him.] There I sat bentover my table, day after day, and often half the night too—writing and writing at the great thick book on “Human Re-sponsibility.” H’m!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Laying her hand upon his arm.] But, Alfred—thatbook is to be your life-work.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, you have said so often enough.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I thought so. Ever since I grew up, I havethought so. [With an affectionate expression in his eyes.] Andit was you that enabled me to devote myself to it, my dearRita—

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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, nonsense!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Smiling to her.]—you, with your gold, and yourgreen forests—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Half laughing, half vexed.] If you begin all that rub-bish again, I shall beat you.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking sorrowfully at him.] But the book, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It began, as it were, to drift away from me. ButI was more and more beset by the thought of the higherduties that laid their claims upon me.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Beaming, seizes his hand.] Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. The thought of Eyolf, my dear Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Disappointed, drops his hand.] Ah—of Eyolf!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Poor little Eyolf has taken deeper and deeperhold of me. After that unlucky fall from the table—and es-pecially since we have been assured that the injury is in-curable—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Insistently.] But you take all the care you possiblycan of him, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. As a schoolmaster, yes; but not as a father.And it is a father that I want henceforth to be to Eyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking at him and shaking her head.] I don’t thinkI quite understand you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I mean that I will try with all my might to makehis misfortune as painless and easy to him as it can possi-bly be.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, but, dear—thank Heaven, I don’t think he feelsit so deeply.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With emotion.] Yes, Rita, he does.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, you may be sure he feels it deeply.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Impatiently.] But, Alfred, what more can you do forhim?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I will try to perfect all the rich possibilitiesthat are dawning in his childish soul. I will foster all thegerms of good in his nature—make them blossom and bearfruit. [With more and more warmth, rising.] And I will domore than that! I will help him to bring his desires intoharmony with what lies attainable before him. That is justwhat at present they are not. All his longings are for things

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that must for ever remain unattainable to him. But I willcreate a conscious happiness in his mind. [He goes once ortwice up and down the room. ASTA and RITA follow himwith their eyes.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You should take these things more quietly, Alfred!ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Stops beside the table on the left, and looks atthem.] Eyolf shall carry on my life-work—if he wants to. Orhe shall choose one that is altogether his own. Perhaps thatwould be best. At all events, I shall let mine rest as it is.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Rising.] But, Alfred dear, can you not work both foryourself and for Eyolf?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, I cannot. It is impossible! I cannot dividemyself in this matter—and therefore I efface myself. Eyolf shall be the complete man of our race. And it shall be mynew life-work to make him the complete man.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Has risen and now goes up to him.] This must havecost you a terribly hard struggle, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, it has. At home here, I should never haveconquered myself, never brought myself to the point of re-nunciation. Never at home!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then that was why you went away this summer?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With shining eyes.] Yes! I went up into theinfinite solitudes. I saw the sunrise gleaming on the moun-tain peaks. I felt myself nearer the stars—I seemed almost

to be in sympathy and communion with them. And then Ifound the strength for it.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking sadly at him.] But you will never write anymore of your book on “Human Responsibility”?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, never, Asta. I tell you I cannot split up mylife between two vocations. But I will act out my “humanresponsibility”—in my own life.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a smile.] Do you think you can live up to suchhigh resolves at home here?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Taking her hand.] With you to help me, I can.[Holds out the other hand.] And with you too, Asta.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Drawing her hand away.] Ah—with both of us! So,after all, you can divide yourself.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why, my dearest Rita—!

[RITA moves away from him and stands in the garden door-

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way. A light and rapid knock is heard at the door on theright. Engineer BORGHEIM enters quickly. He is a youngman of a little over thirty. His expression is bright and cheer-ful, and he holds himself erect.]

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Good morning, Mrs. Allmers. [Stops with anexpression of pleasure on seeing ALLMERS.] Why, what’sthis? Home again already, Mr. Allmers?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking hands with him.] Yes, I arrived listnight.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Gaily.] His leave was up, Mr. Borgheim.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, you know it wasn’t, Rita—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Approaching.] Oh yes, but it was, though. His fur-lough had run out.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. I see you hold your husband well in hand,

Mrs. Allmers.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I hold to my rights. And besides, everything musthave an end.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, not everything—I hope. Good morning,Miss Allmers!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Holding aloof from him.] Good morning.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking atBORGHEIM.] Not everything, you say?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, I am firmly convinced that there are some

things in the world that will never come to an end.RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I suppose you are thinking of love—and that sort of thing.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Warmly.] I am thinking of all that is lovely!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And that never comes to an end. Yes, let us think of

that, hope for that, all of us.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming up to them.] I suppose you will soonhave finished your road-work out here?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. I have finished it already—finished it yes-terday. It has been a long business, but, thank Heaven, that

has come to an end.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And you are beaming with joy over that?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, I am indeed!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well, I must say—

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27

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. What, Mrs. Allmers?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I don’t think it is particularly nice of you, Mr.Borgheim.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Indeed! Why not?RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well, I suppose we sha’n’t often see you in theseparts after this.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No, that is true. I hadn’t thought of that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh well, I suppose you will be able to look in upon

us now and then all the same.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No, unfortunately that will be out of my powerfor a very long time.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Indeed! How so?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. The fact is, I have got a big piece of newwork that I must set about at once.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Have you indeed?—[Pressing his hand.]—I amheartily glad to hear it.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I congratulate you, Mr. Borgheim!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Hush, hush—I really ought not to talk openlyof it as yet! But I can’t help coming out with it! It is a greatpiece of road-making—up in the north—with mountainranges to cross, and the most tremendous difficulties to over-come!—[With an outburst of gladness.]—Oh, what a glorious

world this is—and what a joy it is to be a road-maker in it!RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Smiling, and looking teasingly at him.] Is it road-making business that has brought you out here to-day insuch wild spirits?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No, not that alone. I am thinking of all thebright and hopeful prospects that are opening out before

me.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Aha, then perhaps you have something still moreexquisite in reserve!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Glancing towardsASTA.] Who knows! Whenonce happiness comes to us, it is apt to come like it spring

flood. [ Turns toASTA.] Miss Allmers, would you not like totake a little walk with me? As we used to?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quickly.] No—no, thank you. Not now. Not to-day.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, do come! Only a little bit of a walk! Ihave so much I want to talk to you about before I go.

LittleEyolf

RITRITRITAAA S hi l h h lk H d l b i i i d hi b k



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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Something else, perhaps, that you must not talkopenly about as yet?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. H’m, that depends—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But there is nothing to prevent your whispering, youknow. [Half aside.] Asta, you must really go with him.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But, my dear Rita—

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Imploringly.] Miss Asta—remember it is tobe a farewell walk—the last for many a day.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Takes her hat and parasol.] Very well, suppose wetake a stroll in the garden, then.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, thank you, thank you!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And while you are there you can see what Eyolf is doing.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Ah, Eyolf, by the bye! Where is Eyolf to-day? I’ve got something for him.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. He is out playing somewhere.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Is he really! Then he has begun to play now?

He used always to be sitting indoors over his books.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. There is to be an end of that now. I am going tomake a regular open-air boy of him.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Ah, now, that’s right! Out into the open airwith him, poor little fellow! Good Lord, what can we possi-bly do better than play in this blessed world? For my part, Ithink all life is one long playtime!—Come, Miss Asta!

[BORGHEIMandASTA go out on the verandah and downthrough the garden.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Stands looking after them.] Rita—do you thinkthere is anything between those two?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I don’t know what to say. I used to think there was.But Asta has grown so strange to me—so utterly incompre-hensible of late.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Indeed! Has she? While I have been away?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, within the last week or two.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And you think she doesn’t care very much abouthim now?

Ibsen

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA N t i l t tt l d ti l t RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA [Withi i it t]Wh f th h ld



29

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not, seriously; not utterly and entirely; not unre-servedly—I am sure she doesn’t. [Looks searchingly at him.]Would it displease you if she did?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It would not exactly displease me. But it would

certainly be a disquieting thought—RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Disquieting?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes; you must remember that I am responsiblefor Asta—for her life’s happiness.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, come—responsible! Surely Asta has come to

years of discretion? I should say she was capable of choos-ing for herself.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, we must hope so, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. For my part, I don’t think at all ill of Borgheim.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, dear—no more do I—quite the contrary.But all the same—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Continuing.] And I should be very glad indeed if heand Asta were to make a match of it.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Annoyed.] Oh, why should you be?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With increasing excitement.] Why, for then she wouldhave to go far, far away with him! Anal she could nevercome out here to us, as she does now.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Stares at her in astonishment.] What! Can you

really wish Asta to go away?RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, yes, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why in all the world—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Throwing her arms passionately round his neck.] Forthen, at last, I should have you to myself alone! And yet—

not even then! Not wholly to myself! [Bursts into convulsiveweeping.] Oh, Alfred, Alfred—I cannot give you up!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gently releasing himself .] My dearest Rita, dobe reasonable!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I don’t care a bit about being reasonable! I care only

for you! Only for you in all the world! [Again throwing herarms round his neck.] For you, for you, for you!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Let me go, let me go—you are strangling me!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Letting himgo.] How I wish I could! [Looking at himwith flashing eyes.] Oh, if you knew how I have hated you—!

LittleEyolf

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Hated me ! ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Why goodHeavens doIdothat?



30

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Hated me—!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes—when you shut yourself up in your room andbrooded over your work—till long, long into the night.[Plaintively.] So long, so late, Alfred. Oh, how I hated yourwork!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But now I have done with that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a cutting laugh.] Oh yes! Now you have givenyourself up to something worse.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shocked.] Worse! Do you call our child some-

thing worse?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently.] Yes, I do. As he comes between youand me, I call him so. For the book—the book was not aliving being, as the child is. [With increasing impetuosity.]But I won’t endure it, Alfred! I will not endure it—I tell youso plainly!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks steadily at her, and says in a low voice.]I am often almost afraid of you, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Gloomily.] I am often afraid of myself. And for thatvery reason you must not awake the evil in me.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why, good Heavens, do I do that?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, you do—when you tear to shreds the holiestbonds between us.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [

Urgently.] Think what you’re saying, Rita. It

is your own child—our only child, that you are speaking of.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. The child is only half mine. [With another outburst.]But you shall be mine alone! You shall be wholly mine!

That I have a right to demand of you!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shrugging his shoulders.] Oh, my dear Rita, it

is of no use demanding anything. Everything must be freelygiven.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks anxiously at him.] And that you cannot dohenceforth?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, I cannot. I must divide myself between

Eyolf and you.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But if Eyolf had never been born? What then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Evasively.] Oh, that would be another matter. Then I should have only you to care for.

Ibsen

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA [Softly hervoicequivering]ThenI wishhehadnever RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA I wassosorryforhim becauseyoutroubledyour



31

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly, her voice quivering.] Then I wish he had neverbeen born.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Flashing out.] Rita! You don’t know what youare saying!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Trembling with emotion.] It was in pain unspeak-able that I brought him into the world. But I bore it all with

joy and rapture for your sake.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Warmly.] Oh yes, I know, I know.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With decision.] But there it must end. I will live my

life—together with you—wholly with you. I cannot go onbeing only Eyolf’s mother—only his mother and nothingmore. I will not, I tell you! I cannot! I will be all in all toyou! To you, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But that is just what you are, Rita. Throughour child—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh—vapid, nauseous phrases—nothing else! No,Alfred, I am not to be put off like that. I was fitted to be-come the child’s mother, but not to be a mother to him. Youmust take me as I am, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And yet you used to be so fond of Eyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I was so sorry for him—because you troubled your-self so little about him. You kept him reading and grindingat books. You scarcely even saw him.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nodding slowly.] No; I was blind. The timehad not yet come for me—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking in his face.] But now, I suppose, it has come?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, at, last. Now I see that the highest task Ican have in the world is to be a true father to Eyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And to me?—what will you be to me?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gently.] I will always go on caring for you—with calm, deep tenderness. [He tries to take her hands.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Evading him.] I don’t care a bit for your calm, deeptenderness. I want you utterly and entirely—and alone! Justas I had you in the first rich, beautiful days. [Vehemently

and harshly.] Never, never will I consent to be put off withscraps and leavings, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a conciliatory tone.] I should have thoughtthere was happiness in plenty for all three of us, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Scornfully.] Then you are easy to please. [Seats her-

LittleEyolf

self atthetableontheleft ]Nowlistentome ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS I did not drink any of it



32

self at the table on the left.] Now listen to me.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Approaching.] Well, what is it?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking up at him with a veiled glow in her eyes.]When I got your telegram yesterday evening—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes? What then?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA.—then I dressed myself in white—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, I noticed you were in white when I ar-rived.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I had let down my hair—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Your sweet masses of hair—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA.—so that it flowed down my neck and shoulders—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I saw it, I saw it. Oh, how lovely you were,Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. There were rose-tinted shades over both the lamps.And we were alone, we two—the only waking beings in thewhole house. And there was champagne on the table.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I did not drink any of it.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking bitterly at him.] No, that is true. [Laughsharshly.] “There stood the champagne, but you tasted itnot”—as the poet says.

[She rises from the armchair, goes with an air of wearinessover to the sofa, and seats herself, half reclining, upon it.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Crosses the room and stands before her.] I wasso taken up with serious thoughts. I had made up my mindto talk to you of our future, Rita—and first and foremost of Eyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Smiling.] And so you did—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, I had not time to—for you began to un-dress.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, and meanwhile you talked about Eyolf. Don’t

you remember? You wanted to know all about little Eyolf’sdigestion.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking reproachfully at her.] Rita—!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And then you got into your bed, and slept the sleepof the just.

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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS [Shakinghishead]Rita—Rita! RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA [Withtremblinglips]Neverinasinglethoughthave



33

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] Rita—Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Lying at full length and looking up at him.] Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. “There stood your champagne, but you tasted it not.”

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Almost harshly.] No. I did not taste it.

[He goes away from her and stands in the garden doorway.RITA lies for some time motionless, with closed eyes.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Suddenly springing up.] But let me tell you one thing,Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Turning in the doorway.] Well?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You ought not to feel quite so secure as you do!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Not secure?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, you ought not to be so indifferent! Not certain of your property in me!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Drawing nearer.] What do you mean by that?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With trembling lips.] Never in a single thought haveI been untrue to you, Alfred! Never for an instant.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, Rita, I know that—I, who know you so well.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With sparkling eyes.] But if you disdain me—!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Disdain! I don’t understand what you mean!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, you don’t know all that might rise up within me,if—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. If I should ever see that you did not care for me—that you did not love me as you used to.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But, my dearest Rita—years bring a certainchange with them—and that must one day occur even inus—as in every one else.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Never in me! And I will not hear of any change inyou either—I could not bear it, Alfred. I want to keep youto myself alone.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking at her with concern.] You have a ter-ribly jealous nature—

LittleEyolf

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA I can’tmakemyselfdifferentfromwhatI am[Threat- ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Didnotloveyou Rita?Howcanyousaysuch



34

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I cant make myself different from what I am. [ Threateningly.] If you go and divide yourself between me and anyone else—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What then—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then I will take my revenge on you, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. How “take your revenge”?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I don’t know how.—Oh yes, I do know, well enough!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I will go and throw myself away—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Throw yourself away, do you say?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, that I will. I’ll throw myself straight into thearms of of the first man that comes in my way—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking tenderly at her and shaking his head.] That you will never do—my loyal, proud, true-hearted Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Putting her arms round his neck.] Oh, you don’t knowwhat I might come to be if you—if you did not love me anymore.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Did not love you, Rita? How can you say sucha thing!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Half laughing, lets him go.] Why should I not spreadmy nets for that—that road-maker man that hangs abouthere?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Relieved.] Oh, thank goodness—you are only joking.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not at all. He would do as well as any one else.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Ah, but I suspect he is more or less taken up

already.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. So much the better! For then I should take himawayfromsome one else; and that is just what Eyolf has done to me.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Can you say that our little Eyolf has done that?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Pointing with her forefinger.] There, you see! Yousee! The moment you mention Eyolf’s name, you grow ten-der and your voice quivers! [ Threateningly, clenching herhands.] Oh, you almost tempt we to wish—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking at her anxiously.] What do I temptyou to wish, Rita?—

Ibsen

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently, goingawayfromhim.] No, no, no—I BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM.[Looksather.]Theevileye?



35

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently, going away from him.] No, no, no Iwon’t tell you that! Never!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Drawing nearer to her.] Rita! I implore you—for my sake and for your own—do not let yourself he temptedinto evil.

[BORGHEIM and ASTA come up from the garden. Theyboth show signs of restrained emotion. They look serious anddejected. ASTA remains out on the verandah. BORGHEIMcomes into the room.]

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. So that is over—Miss Allmers and I have

had our last walk together.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks at him with surprise.] Ah! And there is nolonger journey to follow the walk?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, for me.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. For you alone?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, for me alone.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Glances darkly at ALLMERS.] Do you hear that?[ Turns toBORGHEIM.] I’ll wager it is some one with theevil eye that has played you this trick.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Looks at her.] The evil eye?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Nodding.] Yes, the evil eye.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Do you believe in the evil eye, Mrs. Allmers?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. I have begun to believe in the evil eye. Espe-cially in a child’s evil eye.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shocked, whispers.] Rita—how can you—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Speaking low.] It is you that make me so wickedand hateful, Alfred.

[Confused cries and shrieks are heard in the distance, fromthe direction of the fiord.]

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Going to the glass door.] What noise is that?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [In the doorway.] Look at all those people running

down to the pier!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What can it be? [Looks out for a moment.] Nodoubt it’s those street urchins at some mischief again.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Calls, leaning over the verandah railings.] Isay, you boys down there! What’s the matter?

LittleEyolf

[Several voices are heard answering indistinctly and con- ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In an agony of dread.] It isn’t Eyolf! It isn’t



36

[ g yfusedly.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. What do they say?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. They say it’s a child that’s drowned.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. A child drowned?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Uneasily.] A little boy, they say.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, they can all swim, every one of them.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Shrieks in terror.] Where is Eyolf?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Keep quiet—quiet. Eyolf is down in the gar-den, playing.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No, he wasn’t in the garden.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With upstretched arms.] Oh, if only it isn’t he!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Listens, and calls down.] Whose child is it,do you say?

[Indistinct voices are heard. BORGHEIMandASTA utter asuppressed cry, and rush out through the garden.]

[ g y ] yEyolf, Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [On the verandah, listening.] Hush! Be quiet! Let mehear what they are saying!

[RITA rushes back with a piercing shriek, into the room.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Following her.] What did they say?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Sinking down beside the armchair on the left.] Theysaid: “The crutch is floating!”

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Almost paralysed.] No! No! No!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Hoarsely.] Eyolf! Eyolf! Oh, but they must save him!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Half distracted.] They must, they must! So pre-cious a life!

[He rushes down through the garden.]

Ibsen

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Closing her umbrella.] I have been searching for



37

ACT SECOND[A little narrow glen by the side of the fiord, onALLMERS’Sproperty. On the left, lofty old trees overarch the spot. Downthe slope in the background a brook comes leaping, and losesitself among the stones on the margin of the wood. A pathwinds along by the brook-side. To the right there are only afew single trees, between which the fiord is visible. In front isseen the corner of a boat-shed with a boat drawn up. Underthe old trees on the left stands a table with a bench and one

or two chairs, all made of thin birch-staves. It is a heavy,damp day, with driving mist wreaths.]

[ALFRED ALLMERS, dressed as before, sits on the bench,leaning his arms on the table. His hat lies before him. Hegazes absently and immovably out over the water.]

[PresentlyASTA ALLMERScomes down the woodpath. Sheis carrying an open umbrella.]

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Goes quietly and cautiously up to him.] You oughtnot to sit down here in this gloomy weather, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nods slowly without answering.]

[ g ] gyou such a long time.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Without expression.] Thank you.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Moves a chair and seats herself close to him.] Haveyou been sitting here long? All the time?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Does not answer at first. Presently he says.]No, I cannot grasp it. It seems so utterly impossible.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Laying her hand compassionately on his arm.] PoorAlfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gazing at her.] Is it really true then, Asta? Orhave I gone mad? Or am I only dreaming? Oh, if it wereonly a dream! Just think, if I were to waken now!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, if I could only waken you!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking out over the water.] How pitiless thefiord looks to-day, lying so heavy and drowsy—leaden-grey—with splashes of yellow—and reflecting the rain-clouds.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Imploringly.] Oh, Alfred, don’t sit staring out overthe fiord!

LittleEyolf

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Not heeding her.] Over the surface, yes. But you conceive the meaning of a thing like this?



38

in the depths—there sweeps the rushing undertow—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [In terror.] Oh, for God’s sake don’t think of thedepths!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking gently at her.] I suppose you think heis lying close outside here? But he is not, Asta. You mustnot think that. You must remember how fiercely the currentsweeps gut here straight to the open sea.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Throws herself forward against the table, and, sob-bing, buries her face in her hands.] Oh, God! Oh, God!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Heavily.] So you see, little Eyolf has passedso far—far away from us now.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks imploringly up at him.] Oh, Alfred, don’t saysuch things!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why, you can reckon it out for yourself—youthat are so clever. In eight-and-twenty hours—nine-and-twenty hours—Let me see—! Let me see—!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Shrieking and stopping her ears.] Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Clenching his hand firmly upon the table.] Can

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks at him.] Of what?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Of this that has been done to Rita and me.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. The meaning of it?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Impatiently.] Yes, the meaning, I say. For, af-ter all, there must be a meaning in it. Life, existence—destiny, cannot be so utterly meaningless.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, who can say anything with certainty about these

things, my dear Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Laughs bitterly.] No, no; I believe you are rightthere. Perhaps the whole thing goes simply by hap-hazard—taking its own course, like a drifting wreck without a rud-der. I daresay that is how it is. At least, it seems very like it.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Thoughtfully.] What if it only seems—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Vehemently.] Ah? Perhaps you can unravel themystery for me? I certainly cannot. [More gently.] Here isEyolf, just entering upon conscious life: full of such infinitepossibilities—splendid possibilities perhaps: he would havefilled my life with pride and gladness. And then a crazy old

Ibsen

woman has only to come this way—and show a cur in a ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Have you spoken to Rita of these things?



39

bag—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But we don’t in the least know how it really hap-pened.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, we do. The boys saw her row out over thefiord. They saw Eyolf standing alone at the very end of thepier. They saw him gazing after her—and then he seemedto turn giddy. [Quivering.] And that was how he fell over—and disappeared.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, yes. But all the same—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. She has drawn him down into the depths—that you may be sure of, dear.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But, Alfred, why should she?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, that is just the question! Why should she?

There is no retribution behind it all—no atonement, I mean.Eyolf never did her any harm. He never called names afterher; he never threw stones at her dog. Why, he had neverset eyes either on her or her dog till yesterday. So there isno retribution; the whole thing is utterly groundless andmeaningless, Asta.—And yet the order of the world requiresit.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shakes his head.] I feel as if I can talk betterto you about them. [Drawing a deep breath.] And about ev-erything else as well.

[ASTA takes serving-materials and a little paper parcel outof her pocket. ALLMERSsits looking on absently.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What leave you got there, Asta?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Taking his hat.] Some black crap.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, whet is the use of that?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Rita asked me to put it on. May I?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, yes; as far as I’m concerned—[She sewsthe crape on his hat.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Sitting and looking at her.] Where is Rita?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. She is walking about the garden a little, I think.Borgheim is with her.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Slightly surprised.] Indeed! Is Borgheim outhere to-day again?

LittleEyolf

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes. He came out by the mid-day train. ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And now for the left arm.



40

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I didn’t expect that.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Serving.] He was so fond of Eyolf.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Borgheim is a faithful soul, Asta.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With quiet warmth.] Yes, faithful he is, indeed. Thatis certain.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Fixing his eyes upon her.] You are really fondof him?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I am.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And yet you cannot make up your mind to—?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Interrupting.] Oh, my dear Alfred, don’t talk of that!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, yes; tell me why you cannot?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, no! Please! You really must not ask me. Yousee, it’s so painful for me.—There now! The hat is done.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Thank you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Am I to have crape on it too?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, that is the custom.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well—as you please.

[She moves close up to him and begins to sew.]

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Keep your arm still—then I won’t prick you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With a half-smile.] This is like the old days.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, don’t you think so?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. When you were a little girl you used to sit justlike this, mending my clothes. The first thing you ever sewedfor me—that was black crape, too.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Was it?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Round my student’s cap—at the time of father’sdeath.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Could I sew then? Fancy, I have forgotten it.

Ibsen

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, you were such a little thing then. ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, if you had been a boy, you would haveb ll dE lf



41

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I was little then.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And then, two years afterwards—when we lostyour mother—then again you sewed a big crape band onmy sleeve.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I thought it was the right thing to do.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Patting her hand.] Yes, yes, it was the rightthing to do, Asta. And then when we were left alone in theworld, we two—. Are you done already?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes. [Putting together her sewing-materials.] It wasreally a beautiful time for us, Alfred. We two alone.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, it was—though we had to toil so hard.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You toiled.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With more life.] Oh, you toiled too, in yourway, I can assure you—[smiling]—my dear, faithful—Eyolf.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh—you mustn’t remind me of that stupid nonsenseabout the name.

been called Eyolf.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, if! But when you began to go to college—. [Smil-ing involuntarily.] I wonder how you could be so childish.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Was it I that was childish?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, indeed, I think it was, as I look back upon itall. You were ashamed of having no brother—only a sister.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, no, it was you, dear—you were ashamed.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh yes, I too, perhaps—a little. And somehow orother I was sorry for you—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, I believe you were. And then you huntedup some of my old boy’s clothes—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Your fine Sunday clothes—yes. Do you remember

the blue blouse and knickerbockers?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [His eyes dwelling upon her.] I remember sowell how you looked when you used to wear them.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Only when we were at home, alone, though.

LittleEyolf

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And how serious we were, dear, and how might-il l d ith l I l ll d E lf

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, Alfred—little Eyolf was behind it all.



42

ily pleased with ourselves. I always called you Eyolf.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, Alfred, I hope you have never told Rita this?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, I believe I did once tell her.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, Alfred, how could you do that?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, you see—one tells one’s wife every-thing—very nearly.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I suppose one does.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [As if awakening, clutches at his forehead andstarts up.] Oh, how can I sit here and—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Rising, looks sorrowfully at him.] What is the mat-ter?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. He had almost passed away from me. He hadpassed quite away.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Eyolf!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Here I sat, living in these recollections—andhe had no part in them.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, he was not. He slipped out of my memory—out of my thoughts. I did not see him for a moment as we sathere talking. I utterly forgot him all that time.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But surely you must take some rest in your sorrow.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, no, no; that is just what I will not do! Imust not—I have no right—and no heart for it, either. [Go-ing in great excitement towards the right.] All my thoughtsmust be out there, where he lies drifting in the depths!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Following him and holding him back.] Alfred—Alfred! Don’t go to the fiord.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I must go out to him! Let me go, Asta! I willtake the boat.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [In terror.] Don’t go to the fiord, I say!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Yielding.] No, no—I will not. Only let mealone.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Leading him back to the table.] You must rest fromyour thoughts, Alfred. Come here and sit down.

Ibsen

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Making as if to seat himself on the bench.] Well,well asyouplease

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes?



43

well—as you please.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No, I won’t let you sit there.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, let me.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No, don’t. For then you will only sit looking out—[Forces him down upon a chair, with his back to the right.]

There now. Now that’s right. [Seats herself upon the bench.]And now we can talk a little again.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Drawing a deep breath audibly.] It was good

to deaden the sorrow and heartache for a moment.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You insist do so, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But don’t you think it is terribly weak and un-feeling of me—to be able to do so?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, no—I am sure it is impossible to keep circlingfor ever round one fixed thought.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, for me it is impossible. Before you cameto me, here I sat, torturing myself unspeakably with thiscrushing, gnawing sorrow—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And would you believe it, Asta—? H’m—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Well?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. In the midst of all the agony, I found myself speculating what we should have for dinner to-day.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Soothingly.] Well, well, if only it rests you to—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, just fancy, dear—it seemed as if it didgive me rest. [Holds out, his hand to her across the table.]

How good it is, Asta, that I have you with me. I am so gladof that. Glad, glad—even in my sorrow.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking earnestly at him.] You ought most of all tobe glad that you have Rita.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, of course I should. But Rita is no kin to

me—it isn’t like having a sister.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Eagerly.] Do you say that, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, our family is a thing apart. [Half jestingly.]We have always had vowels for our initials. Don’t you re-member how often we used to speak of that? And all our

LittleEyolf

relations—all equally poor. And we have all the same colourofeyes

since you were a little child. [After a short pause.] And thenitalwaysseemedtomethatI hadsomuchinjusticetomake



44

of eyes.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Do you think I have—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, you take entirely after your mother. You

are not in the least like the rest of us—not even like father.But all the same—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. All the same—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, I believe that living together has, as itwere, stamped us in each other’s image—mentally, I mean.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With warm emotion.] Oh, you must never say that,Alfred. It is only I that have taken my stamp from you; andit is to you that I owe everything—every good thing in theworld.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] You owe me nothing, Asta.

On the contrary—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I owe you everything! You must never doubt that.No sacrifice has been too great for you—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Interrupting.] Oh, nonsense—sacrifice! Don’ttalk of such a thing.—I have only loved you, Asta, ever

it always seemed to me that I had so much injustice to makeup to you for.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Astonished.] Injustice? You?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Not precisely on my own account. But—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Eagerly.] But—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. On father’s.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Half rising from the bench.] On—father’s! [Sitting

down again.] What do you mean by that, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Father was never really kind to you.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Vehemently.] Oh, don’t say that!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, it is true. He did not love you—not as he

ought to have.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Evasively.] No, perhaps not as he loved you. Thatwas only natural.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Continuing.] And he was often hard to yourmother, too—at least in the last years.

Ibsen

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Softly.] Mother was so much, much younger thanhe remember that

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Rising.] Yes, let them rest. [Wringing hishands]Butthosewhoaregone itistheythatwon’tletus



45

he—remember that.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Do you think they were not quite suited to eachother?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Perhaps not.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, but still—. Father, who in other ways wasso gentle and warm-hearted—so kindly towards every one—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quietly.] Mother, too, was not always as she oughtto have been.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Your mother was not!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Perhaps not always.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Towards father, do you mean?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes.ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I never noticed that.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Struggling with her tears, rises.] Oh, my dearAlfred—let them rest—those who are gone. [She goes to-wards the right.]

hands.] But those who are gone—it is they that wont let usrest, Asta. Neither day nor night.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks warmly at him.] Time will make it all seemeasier, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking helplessly at her.] Yes, don’t you thinkit will?—But how I am to get over these terrible first days[Hoarsely.]—that is what I cannot imagine.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Imploringly, laying her hands on his shoulders.] Goup to Rita. Oh, please do—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Vehemently, withdrawing from her.] No, no,no—don’t talk to me of that! I cannot, I tell you. [Morecalmly.] Let me remain here, with you.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Well, I will not leave you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Seizing her hand and holding it fast.] Thankyou for that! [Looks out for a time over the fiord.] Where ismy little Eyolf now? [Smiling sadly to her.] Can you tell methat my big, wise Eyolf? [Shaking his head.] No one in allthe world can tell me that. I know only this one terriblething—that he is gone from me.

LittleEyolf

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking up to the left, and withdrawing her hand.]Heretheyarecoming

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Moving restlessly about.] And then to sit still! Tostay inoneplace!



46

Here they are coming.

[MRS. ALLMERS and Engineer BORGHEIM come downby the wood-path, she leading the way. She wears a darkdress and a black veil over her head. He has an umbrella

under his arm.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Going to meet her.] How is it with you, Rita?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Passing him.] Oh, don’t ask.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why do you come here?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Only to look for you. What are you doing?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Nothing. Asta came down to me.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, but before Asta came? You have been away fromme all the morning.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I have been sitting here looking out over thewater.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Ugh,—how can you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Impatiently.] I like best to be alone now.

stay in one place!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I have nothing in the world to move for.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I cannot bear to be anywhere long. Least of all here—

with the fiord at my very feet.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It is just the nearness of the fiord—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ ToBORGHEIM.] Don’t you think he should comeback with the rest of us?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [ ToALLMERS.] I believe it would be betterfor you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, no; let me stay where I am.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then I will stay with you, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Very well; do so, then. You remain too, Asta.ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Whispers toBORGHEIM.] Let us leave them alone!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [With a glance of comprehension.] MissAllmers, shall we go a little further—along the shore? Forthe very last time?

Ibsen

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Taking her umbrella.] Yes, come. Let us go a littlefurther.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. To question the boys as to how it happened.



47

further.

[ASTA and BORGHEIM go out together behind the boat-shed. ALLMERS wanders about for a little. Then he seatshimself on a stone under the trees on the left.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Comes up and stands before him, her hands foldedand hanging down.] Can you think the thought, Alfred—that we have lost Eyolf?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking sadly at the ground.] We must accus-tom ourselves to think it.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I cannot. I cannot. And then that horrible sight thatwill haunt me all my life long.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking up.] What sight? What have you seen?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I have seen nothing myself. I have only heard it told.

Oh—!ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. You may as well tell me at once.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I got Borgheim to go down with me to the pier—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What did you want there?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But we know that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. We got to know more.


RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. It is not true that he disappeared all at once.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Do they say that now?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. They say they saw him lying down on the bot-

tom. Deep down in the clear water.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Grinding his teeth.] And they didn’t save him!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I suppose they could not.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. They could swim—every one of them. Did they

tell you how he was lying whilst they could see him?RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. They said he was lying on his back. And withgreat, open eyes.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Open eyes. But quite still?

LittleEyolf

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, quite still. And then something came and swepthimaway.Theycalled it theundertow.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Shrinking from him.] Alfred—!



48

him away. They called it the undertow.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nodding slowly.] So that was the last they sawof him.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Suffocated with tears.] Yes.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a dull voice.] And never—never will anyone see him again.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Wailing.] I shall see him day and night, as he laydown there.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. With great, open eyes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Shuddering.] Yes, with great, open eyes. I see them!I see them now!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Rises slowly and looks with quiet menace at

her.] Were they evil, those eyes, Rita?RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Turning pale.] Evil—!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Going close up to her.] Were they evil eyesthat stared up? Up from the depths?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Following her.] Answer me! Were they a child’sevil eyes?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Shrieks.] Alfred! Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Now things have come about—just as youwished, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I! What did I wish?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That Eyolf were not here.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Never for a moment have I wished that! That Eyolf should not stand between us—that was what I wished.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, well—he does not stand between us anymore.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly, gazing straight before her.] Perhaps now morethan ever. [With a sudden shudder.] Oh, that horrible sight!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nods.] The child’s evil eyes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [In dread, recoiling from him.] Let me be, Alfred! Iam afraid of you. I have never seen you like this before.

Ibsen

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks harshly and coldly at her.] Sorrow makesus wicked and hateful.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Asta?



49

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [ Terrified, and yet defiant.] That is what I feel, too.

[ALLMERS goes towards the right and looks out over the

fiord. RITA seats herself at the table. A short pause.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Turning his head towards her.] You never re-ally and truly loved him—never!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With cold self-control.] Eyolf would never let metake him really and truly to my heart.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Because you did not want to.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh yes, I did. I did want to. But some one stood inthe way—even from the first.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Turning right round.] Do you mean thatI stood

in the way?RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, no—not at first.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming nearer her.] Who, then?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. His aunt.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. Asta stood and barred the way for me.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Can you say that, Rita?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. Asta—she took him to her heart—from themoment that happened—that miserable fall.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If she did so, she did it in love.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently.] That is just it! I cannot endure to shareanything with any one! Not in love.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. We two should have shared him between us inlove.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking scornfully at him.] We? Oh, the truth is youhave never had any real love for him either.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks at her in astonishment.] I have not—!RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, you have not. At first you were so utterly takenup by that book of yours—about Responsibility.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Forcibly.] Yes, I was. But my very book—Isacrificed for Eyolf’s sake.

LittleEyolf

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not out of love for him. ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Avoiding her eyes.] There is something youshrink from saying.



50

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why then, do you suppose?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Because you were consumed with mistrust of your-self. Because you had begun to doubt whether you had any

great vocation to live for in the world.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Observing her closely.] Could you see that inme?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, yes—little by little. And then you needed some-thing new to fill up your life.—It seems I was not enough

for you any longer.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That is the law of change, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And that was why you wanted to make a prodigy of poor little Eyolf.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That was not what I wanted. I wanted to makea happy human being of him.—That, and nothing more.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But not out of love for him. Look into yourself! [Witha certain shyness of expression.] Search out all that lies un-der—and behind your action.

y g

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And you too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks thoughtfully at her.] If it is as you say,

then we two have never really possessed our own child.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No. Not in perfect love.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And yet we are sorrowing so bitterly for him.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With sarcasm.] Yes, isn’t it curious that we should

grieve like this over a little stranger boy?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With an outburst.] Oh, don’t call him a stranger!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Sadly shaking her head.] We never won the boy,Alfred. Not I—nor you either.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Wringing his hands.] And now it is too late!

Too late!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And no consolation anywhere—in anything.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With sudden passion.] You are the guilty onein this!

Ibsen

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Rising.] I! ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a low voice, clenching his fists before herface.] In that hour you condemned little Eyolf to death.



51

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, you! It was your fault that he became—what he was! It was your fault that he could not save him-self when he fell into the water.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a gesture of repulsion.] Alfred—you shall notthrow the blame upon me!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [More and more beside himself .] Yes, yes, I do! Itwas you that left the helpless child unwatched upon the table.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. He was lying so comfortably among the cushions,

and sleeping so soundly. And you had promised to look af-ter him.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, I had. [Lowering his voice.] But then youcame—you, you, you—and lured me to you.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking defiantly at him.] Oh, better own at oncethat you forgot the child and everything else.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In suppressed desperation.] Yes, that is true.[Lower.] I forgot the child—in your arms!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Exasperated.] Alfred! Alfred—this is intolerable of you!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Wildly.] You, too! You, too—if it is as you say!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh yes—call me to account, too—if you will.

We have sinned, both of us. And so, after all, there wasretribution in Eyolf’s death.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Retribution?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With more self-control.] Yes. Judgment uponyou and me. Now, as we stand here, we have our deserts.

While he lived, we let ourselves shrink away from him insecret, abject remorse. We could not bear to see it—thething he had to drag with him—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Whispers.] The crutch.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, that. And now, what we now call sorrowand heartache—is really the gnawing of conscience, Rita.Nothing else.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Gazing helplessly at him.] I feel as if all this mustend in despair—in madness for both of us. For we cannever—never make it good again.

LittleEyolf

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Passing into a calmer mood.] I dreamed aboutEyolf last night. I thought I saw him coming up from the

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. It would have been better for me; for then I shouldhave had something to take refuge in. Now I am utterly at



52

pier. He could run like other boys. So nothing had hap-pened to him—neither the one thing nor the other. And thetorturing reality was nothing but a dream, I thought. Oh,how I thanked and blessed—[Checking himself .] H’m!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking at him.] Whom?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Evasively.] Whom—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes; whom did you thank and bless?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Putting aside the question.] I was only dream-ing, you know—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. One whom you yourself do not believe in?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That was how I felt, all the same. Of course, Iwas sleeping—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Reproachfully.] You should not have taught me todoubt, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Would it leave been right of me to let you gothrough life with your mind full of empty fictions?

sea.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Observing her closely.] If you had the choicenow—. If you could follow Eyolf to where he is—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes? What then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If you were fully assured that you would findhim again—know him—understand him—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, yes; what then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Would you, of your own free will, take the leapover to him? Of your own free will leave everything behindyou? Renounce your whole earthly life? Would you, Rita?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly.] Now, at once?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes; to-day. This very hour. Answer me—wouldyou?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Hesitating.] Oh, I don’t know, Alfred. No! I think Ishould have to stay here with you, a little while.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. For my sake?

Ibsen

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes. Only for your sake.

SS

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Darkly.] Oh, happiness—happiness—



53

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And afterwards? Would you then—? Answer!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, what can I answer? I could not go away fromyou. Never! Never!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But suppose nowI went to Eyolf? And you hadthe fullest assurance that you would meet both him and methere. Then would you come over to us?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I should want to—so much! so much! But—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well? I I?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Moaning softly.] I could not—I feel it. No, no, Inever could! Not for all the glory of heaven!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Nor I.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, you feel it so, too, don’t you, Alfred! You couldnot either, could you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No. For it is here, in the life of earth, that weliving beings are at home.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, here lies the kind of happiness that we can understand.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You mean that happiness—that we can never find itagain? [Looks inquiringly at him.] But if—? [Vehemently.]No, no; I dare not say it! Nor even think it!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, say it—say it, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Hesitatingly.] Could we not try to—? Would it notbe possible to forget him?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Forget Eyolf?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Forget the anguish and remorse, I mean.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Can you wish it?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes,—if it were possible. [With an outburst.] Forthis—I cannot bear this for ever! Oh, can we not think of something that will bring its forgetfulness!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shakes his head.] What could that be?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Could we not see what travelling would do—far awayfrom here?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. From home? When you know you are never

LittleEyolf

really well anywhere but here.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA W ll th l t h d f l b t !

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Hardly.] It is quenched—in one of us.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA [A if t ifi d]A d d th tt !



54

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well, then, let us have crowds of people about us!Keep open house! Plunge into something that can deadenand dull our thoughts!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Such it life would be impossible for me.—No,—rather than that, I would try to take up my work again.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Bitingly.] Your work—the work that has always stoodlike a dead wall between us!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Slowly, looking fixedly at her.] There must al-

ways be a dead wall between us two, from this time forth.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Why must there—?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Who knows but that a child’s great, open eyesare watching us day and night.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly, shuddering.] Alfred—how terrible to thinkof!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Our love has been like a consuming fire. Nowit must be quenched—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a movement towards him.] Quenched!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [As if petrified.] And you dare say that to me!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [More gently.] It is dead, Rita. But in what Inow feel for you—in our common guilt and need of atone-

ment—I seem to foresee a sort of resurrection—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently.] I don’t care a bit about any resurrec-tion!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I am a warm-blooded being! I don’t go drowsingabout—with fishes’ blood in my veins. [Wringing her hands.]And now to be imprisoned for life—in anguish and remorse!Imprisoned with one who is no longer mine, mine, mine!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It must have ended so, sometime, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Must have ended so! The love that in the beginningrushed forth so eagerly to meet with love!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. My love did not rush forth to you in the begin-ning.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. What did you feel for me, first of all?

Ibsen

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Dread.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA Th tI d t d H it th th tI

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. She knew nothing about it. She has no suspi-cion of it, even to this day.



55

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. That I can understand. How was it, then, that I wonyou after all?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a low voice.] You were so entrancingly beau-

tiful, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks searchingly at him.] Then that was the onlyreason? Say it, Alfred! The only reason?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Conquering himself .] No, there was anotheras well.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With an outburst.] I can guess what that was! It was“my gold, and my green forests,” as you call it. Was it notso, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks at him with deep reproach.] How could you—how could you!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I had Asta to think of.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Angrily.] Yes, Asta! [Bitterly.] Then it was really Astathat brought us two together?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Rejecting the plea.] It was Asta, nevertheless! [Smil-ing, with a sidelong glance of scorn. ] Or, no—it was littleEyolf. Little Eyolf, my dear!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Eyolf—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, you used to call her Eyolf, did you not? I seemto remember your telling me so—once, in a moment of con-fidence. [Coming up to him.] Do you remember it—thatentrancingly beautiful hour, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Recoiling, as if in horror.] I remember noth-ing! I will not remember!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Following him.] It was in that hour—when your otherlittle Eyolf was crippled for life!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [In a hollow voice, supporting himself againstthe table.] Retribution!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Menacingly.] Yes, retribution!

[ASTA and BORGHEIM return by way of the boat-shed.She is carrying some water-lilies in her hand.]

LittleEyolf

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With self-control.] Well, Asta, have you and Mr.Borgheim talked things thoroughly over?

[RITA andBORGHEIM go up the wood-path.]

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA [Anxiously]Alfred whatisthematter?



56

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, yes—pretty well.

[She puts down her umbrella and lays the flowers upon a

chair.]

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Miss Allmers has been very silent duringour walk.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Indeed, has she? Well, Alfred and I have talked thingsout thoroughly enough—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking eagerly at both of them.] What is this—?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Enough to last all our lifetime, I say. [Breaking off .]Come now, let us go up to the house, all four of us. We musthave company about us in future. It will never do for Alfredand me to be alone.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, do you go ahead, you two. [ Turning.] Imust speak a word to you before we go, Asta.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking at him.] Indeed? Well then, you come withme, Mr. Borgheim.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Anxiously.] Alfred, what is the matter?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Darkly.] Only that I cannot endure to be hereany more.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Here! With Rita, do you mean?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes. Rita and I cannot go on living together.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Seizes his arm and shakes it.] Oh, Alfred—don’tsay anything so terrible!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It is the truth. I am telling you. We are makingeach other wicked and hateful.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With painful emotion.] I had never—never dreamtof anything like this!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I did not realise it either, till to-day.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And now you want to—! What is it you really want,Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I want to get away from everything here—far,far away from it all.

Ibsen

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And to stand quite alone in the world?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS [Nods]As I usedto before yes

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I have done her a great wrong. But not in this.Oh, think of it, Asta—think of our life together, yours andmine Wasitnot likeonelongholydayfromfirstto last?



57

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nods.] As I used to, before, yes.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But you are not fitted for living alone!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, yes. I was so in the old days, at any rate.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. In the old days, yes; for then you had me with you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Trying to take her hand.] Yes. And it is to you,Asta, that I now want to come home again.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Eluding him.] To me! No, no, Alfred! That is quiteimpossible.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks sadly at her.] Then Borgheim stands inthe way after all?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Earnestly.] No, no; he does not! That is quite a mis-take!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Good. Then I will come to you—my dear, dearsister. I must come to you again—home to you, to be puri-fied and ennobled after my life with—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Shocked.] Alfred,—you are doing Rita a great wrong!

mine. Was it not like one long holy-day from first to last?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, it was, Alfred. But we can never live it overagain.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Bitterly.] Do you mean that marriage has soirreparably ruined me?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quietly.] No, that is not what I mean.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, then we two will live our old life over

again.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With decision.] We cannot, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, we can. For the love of a brother and sis-ter—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Eagerly.] What of it?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That is the only relation in life that is not subject to the law of change.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Softly and tremblingly.] But if that relation werenot—

LittleEyolf

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Not—?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA—not our relation?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Read the letters. Then you will see—and under-stand. And perhaps have some forgiveness—for mother, too.



58

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA.—not our relation?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Stares at her in astonishment.] Not ours? Why,what can you mean by that?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. It is best I should tell you at once, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, yes; tell me!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. The letters to mother—. Those in my portfolio—


ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You must read them—when I am gone.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why must I?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Struggling with herself .] For then you will see that—


ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA.—that I have no right to bear your father’s name.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Staggering backwards.] Asta! What is this yousay!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Clutching at his forehead.] I cannot graspthis—I cannot realise the thought. You, Asta—you are not—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You are not my brother, Alfred.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Quickly, half defiantly, looking at her.] Well,but what difference does that really make in our relation?Practically none at all.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Shaking her head.] It makes all the difference,

Alfred. Our relation is not that of brother and sister.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No, no. But it is none the less sacred for that—it will always be equally sacred.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Do not forget—that it is subject to the law of change,as you said just now.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looks inquiringly at her.] Do you mean that—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quietly, but with rearm emotion.] Not a word more—my dear, dear Alfred. [ Takes up the flowers from the chair.]Do you see these water-lilies?

Ibsen

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nodding slowly.] They are the sort that shootup—from the very depth.

ACT THIRD



59

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I pulled them in the tarn—where it flows out intothe fiord. [Holds them out to him.] Will you take them,Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Taking them.] Thanks.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With tears in her eyes.] They are a last greeting toyou, from—from little Eyolf.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking at her.] From Eyolf out yonder? Or

from you?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Softly.] From both of us. [ Taking up her umbrella.]Now come with me to Rita.

[She goes up the wood-path.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Takes up his hat from the table, and whisperssadly.] Asta. Eyolf. Little Eyolf—!

[He follows her up the path.]

ACT THIRD

[An elevation, overgrown with shrubs, in ALLMERS’s gar-den. At the back a sheer cliff, with a railing along its edge,and with steps on the left leading downwards. An extensiveview over the fiord, which lies deep below. A flagstaff withlines, but no flag, stands by the railing. In front, on the right,a summer-house, covered with creepers and wild vines. Out-side it, a bench. It is a late summer evening, with clear sky.

Deepening twilight.]

[ASTA is sitting on the bench, with her hands in her lap. Sheis wearing her outdoor dress and a hat, has her parasol ather side, and a little travelling-bag on a strap over her shoul-der.]

[BORGHEIM comes up from the back on the left. He, too,has a travelling-bag over his shoulder. He is carrying a rolled-up flag.]

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Catching sight of ASTA.] Oh, so you are uphere!

LittleEyolf

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, I am taking my last look out over the fiord.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Then I amgladI happenedtocomeup.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Half-mast high. She wants it to fly both nightand day, she says.



60

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Then I am glad I happened to come up.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Have you been searching for me?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, I have. I wanted to say good-bye to youfor the present. Not for good and all, I hope.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With a faint smile.] You are persevering.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. A road-maker has got to be.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Have you seen anything of Alfred? Or of Rita?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, I saw them both.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Together?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No—apart.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. What are you going to do with that flag?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Mrs. Allmers asked me to come up and hoistit.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Hoist a flag just now?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Sighing.] Poor Rita! And poor Alfred!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Busied with the flag.] Have you the heart to

leave them? I ask, because I see you are in travelling-dress.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [In a low voice.] I must go.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Well, if you must, then—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And you are going, too, to-night?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. I must, too. I am going by the train. Are yougoing that way?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No. I shall take the steamer.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Glancing at her.] We each take our own way,then?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes.

[She sits and looks on while he hoists the flag half-mast high.When he has done he goes up to her.]

Ibsen

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Miss Asta—you can’t think how grieved Iam about little Eyolf.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Not the labour and trouble?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM.Pooh—thatsortof thingonecanalwaysget



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ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks up at him.] Yes, I am sure you feel it deeply.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. And the feeling tortures me. For the fact is,

grief is not much in my way.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Raising her eyes to the flag.] It will pass over intime—all of it. All our sorrow.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. All? Do you believe that?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Like a squall at sea. When once you have got faraway from here, then—

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. It will have to be very far away indeed.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. And then you have this great new road-work, too.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. But no one to help me in it.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh yes, surely you have.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Shaking his head.] No one. No one to sharethe gladness with. For it is gladness that most needs shar-ing.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Pooh that sort of thing one can always getthrough alone.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. But the gladness—that must be shared with some

one, you think?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes; for if not, where would be the pleasurein being glad?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Ah yes—perhaps there is something in that.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, of course, for a certain time you can goon feeling glad in your own heart. But it won’t do in the longrun. No, it takes two to be glad.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Always two? Never more? Never many?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Well, you see—then it becomes a quite dif-ferent matter. Miss Asta—are you sure you can never makeup your mind to share gladness and success and—andlabour and trouble, with one—with one alone in all theworld?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. I have tried it—once.

LittleEyolf

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Have you?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, all the time that my brother—that Alfred and I

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh yes, so much. You cannot think how much.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Tell me a little about it, Miss Asta.



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, ylived together.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Oh, with your brother, yes. But that is alto-

gether different. That ought rather to be called peace thanhappiness, I should say.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. It was delightful, all the same.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. There now—you see even that seemed to youdelightful. But just think now—if he had not been your

brother!ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Makes a movement to rise, but remains sitting.] Thenwe should never have been together. For I was a child then—and he wasn’t much more.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [After a pause.] Was it so delightful—thattime?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh yes, indeed it was.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Was there much that was really bright andhappy in your life then?

,

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, there are only trifles to tell.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Such as—? Well?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Such as the time when Alfred had passed his ex-amination—and had distinguished himself. And then, fromtime, to time, when he got a post in some school or other. Orwhen he would sit at home working at an article—and wouldread it aloud to me. And then when it would appear in some

magazine.BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes, I can quite see that it must have been apeaceful, delightful life—a brother and sister sharing alltheir joys. [Shaking his head.] What I cannot understand isthat your brother could ever give you up, Asta.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With suppressed emotion.] Alfred married, you know.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Was not that very hard for you?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, at first. It seemed as though I had utterly losthim all at once.

Ibsen

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Well, luckily it was not so bad as that.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. No.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Continuing as before.] Yes, Asta—I can’tpossibly give you up so easily. Now your brother has every-thing as he wishes it. He can live his life quite contentedly



63

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. But, all the same—how could he! Go andmarry, I mean—when he could have kept you with him,

alone!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking straight in front of her.] He was subject tothe law of change, I suppose.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. The law of change?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. So Alfred calls it.BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Pooh—what a stupid law that must be! I don’tbelieve a bit in that law.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Rising.] You may come to believe in it, in time.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Never in all my life! [Insistently.] But listen

now, Miss Asta! Do be reasonable for once in a way—inthis matter, I mean—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Interrupting him.] Oh, no, no—don’t let us beginupon that again!

g q ywithout you. He doesn’t require you at all. Then this—this—that at one blow has changed your whole position here—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With a start.] What do you mean by that?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. The loss of the child. What else should Imean?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Recovering her self-control.] Little Eyolf is gone,yes.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. And what more does that leave you to dohere? You have not the poor little boy to take care of now.

You have no duties—no claims upon you of any sort.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, please, Mr. Borgheim—don’t make it so hardfor me.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. I must; I should be mad if I did not try myuttermost. I shall be leaving town before very long, rindperhaps I shall have no opportunity of meeting you there.Perhaps I shall not see you again for a long, long time. Andwho knows what may happen in the meanwhile?

LittleEyolf ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With a grave smile.] So you are afraid of the law of change, after all?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes, that I would.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. But you cannot?



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BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No, not in the least. [Laughing bitterly.] Andthere is nothing to be changed, either—not in you. I mean.For I can see you don’t care much about me.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. You know very well that I do.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Perhaps, but not nearly enough. Not as I wantyou to. [More forcibly.] By Heaven, Asta—Miss Asta—Icannot tell you how strongly I feel that you are wrong inthis! A little onward, perhaps, from to-day and to-morrow,

all life’s happiness may be awaiting us. And we must needspass it by! Do you think we will not come to repent of it,Asta?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quietly.] I don’t know. I only know that they are notfor us—all these bright possibilities.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Looks at her with self-control.] Then I must

make my roads alone?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Warmly.] Oh, how I wish I could stand by you in itall! Help you in the labour—share the gladness with you—

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Would you—if you could?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looking down.] Would you be content to have onlyhalf of me?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No. You must be utterly and entirely mine.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Looks at him, and says quietly.] Then I cannot.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Good-bye then, Miss Asta.

[He is on the point of going. ALLMERScomes up from theleft at the back. BORGHEIM stops.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ The moment he has reached the top of the steps,points, and says in a low voice.] Is Rita in there—in thesummer-house?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. No; there is no one here but Miss Asta.

[ALLMERScomes forward.]

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Going towards him.] Shall I go down and look forher? Shall I get her to come up here?

IbsenALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With a negative gesture.] No, no, no—let italone. [ ToBORGHEIM.] Is it you that have hoisted the flag?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. There may be something horrible in that too,Asta.



65

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes. Mrs. Allmers asked me to. That was whatbrought me up here.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And you are going to start to-night?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Yes. To-night I go away in good earnest.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With a glance atASTA.] And you have madesure of pleasant company, I daresay.

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Shaking his head.] I am going alone.ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With surprise.] Alone!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Utterly alone.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Absently.] Indeed?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. And I shall have to remain alone, too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. There is something horrible in being alone. The thought of it runs like ice through my blood—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Oh, but, Alfred, you are not alone.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Oppressed.] Oh, don’t talk like that! Don’t think likethat!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Not listening to her.] But since you are notgoing with him—? Since there is nothing to bind you—?Why will you not remain out here with me—and with Rita?

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Uneasily.] No, no, I cannot. I must go back to townnow.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But only in to town, Asta. Do you hear!ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Yes.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And you must promise me that you will sooncome out again.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Quickly.] No, no, I dare not promise you that, for

the present.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well as you will. We shall soon meet in town, then.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Imploringly.] But, Alfred, you must stay at homehere with Rita now.

LittleEyolf ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Without answering, turns toBORGHEIM.] Youmay find it a good thing, after all, that you have to take your

journey alone.

seem to see great, open eyes fixed upon me!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Tenderly and sympathetically.] What if it were so,Ri ?Y h b f id f h



66

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Annoyed.] Oh, how can you say such a thing?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. You see, you can never tell whom you mighthappen to meet afterwards—on the way.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Involuntarily.] Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. The right fellow-traveller—when it is too late—too late.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Softly, quivering.] Alfred! Alfred!

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [Looking front one to the other.] What is themeaning of this? I don’t understand—

[RITA comes up from the left at the back.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Plaintively.] Oh, don’t go away from me, all of you!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Going towards her.] You said you preferred to bealone.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, but I dare not. It is getting so horribly dark. I

Rita? You ought not to be afraid of those eyes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. How can you say so! Not afraid!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Insistently.] Asta, I beg you—for Heaven’ssake—remain here with Rita!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes! And with Alfred, too. Do! Do, Asta!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Struggling with herself .] Oh, I want to so much—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well, then, do it! For Alfred and I cannot go alonethrough the sorrow and heartache.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Darkly.] Say, rather—through the ranklingsof remorse.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, whatever you like to call it—we cannot bear it

alone, we two. Oh, Asta, I beg and implore you! Stay hereand help us! Take Eyolf’s place for us—

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Shrinking.] Eyolf’s—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, would you not have it so, Alfred?

IbsenALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If she can and will.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You used to call her your little Eyolf. [Seizes her hand.]H f th h llb E lf A t !E lf

erything, Rita! [Goes up toALLMERSand grasps his hand.]Alfred-good-bye! A thousand times, good-bye!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS [S ftl d l ]Wh ti thi A t ?It



67

Henceforth you shall be our Eyolf, Asta! Eyolf, as you werebefore.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With concealed emotion.] Remain—and shareour life with us, Asta. With Rita. With me. With me—yourbrother!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [With decision, snatches her hand away.] No. I can-not. [ Turning.] Mr. Borgheim—what time does the steamerstart?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. Now—at once.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Then I must go on board. Will you go with me?

BORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIMBORGHEIM. [With a suppressed outburst of joy.] Will I? Yes, yes!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. Then come!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Slowly.] Ah! That is how it is. Well, then, you can-not stay with us.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [ Throwing her arms round her neck.] Thanks for ev-

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Softly and eagerly.] What is this, Asta? It seemsas though you were taking flight.

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [In subdued anguish.] Yes, Alfred—I am takingflight.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Flight—from me!

ASTASTASTASTASTAAAAA. [Whispering.] From you—and from myself.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [

Shrinking back.] Ah—!

[ASTA rushes down the steps at the back. BORGHEIMwaveshis hat and follows her. RITA leans against the entrance tothe summer-house. ALLMERSgoes, in strong inward emo-tion, up to the railing, and stands there gazing downwards.A pause.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ Turns, and says with hard-won composure.] There comes the steamer. Look, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I dare not look at it.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. You dare not?

LittleEyolf RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No. For it has a red eye—and a green one, too. Great,glowing eyes.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Oh thoseareonlythelights youknow

just as if nothing in the world had happened.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Gazing straight before her.] And nothing has hap-pened either Nottoothers Onlytoustwo



68

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, those are only the lights, you know.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Henceforth they are eyes—for me. They stare and

stare out of the darkness—and into the darkness.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Now she is putting in to shore.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Where are they mooring her this evening, then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming forward.] At the pier, as usual—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Drawing herself up.] How can they moor her there!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. They must.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But it was there that Eyolf—! How can they moorher there!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, life is pitiless, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Men are heartless. They take no thought—whetherfor the living or for the dead.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. There you are right. Life goes its own way—

pened, either. Not to others. Only to us two.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [ The pain re-awakening.] Yes, Rita—so it was

to no purpose that you bore him in sorrow and anguish. Fornow he is gone again—and has left no trace behind him.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Only the crutch was saved.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Angrily.] Be silent! Do not let me hear thatword!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Plaintively.] Oh, I cannot bear the thought that heis gone from us.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coldly and bitterly.] You could very well dowithout him while he was with us. Half the day would oftenpass without your setting eyes on him.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, for I knew that I could see himwhenever I wantedto.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, that is how we have gone and squanderedthe short time we had with Little Eyolf.

IbsenRITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Listening, in dread.] Do you hear, Alfred! Now it isringing again!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS [Lookingover thefiord] It isthesteamer’sbell

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Is it possible you do not hear it? “The crútch is—flóating. The crútch is —”

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS [Comingforward]Youshallnotstandthere lis



69

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking over the fiord.] It is the steamers bellthat is ringing. She is just starting.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, it’s not that bell I mean. All day I have heard itringing in my ears.—Now it is ringing again!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Going up to her.] You are mistaken, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, I hear it so plainly. It sounds like a knell. Slow.Slow. And always the same words.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Words? What words?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Nodding her head in the rhythm.] “The crútch is—flóating. The crútch is—flóating.” Oh, surely you must hearit, too!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] I hear nothing. And there

is nothing to hear.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, you may say what you will—I hear it so plainly.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking out over the railing.] Now they are onboard, Rita. Now the steamer is on her way to the town.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming forward.] You shall not stand there lis-tening to a sound that does not exist. I tell You, Asta andBorgheimare on board. They have started already. Asta is gone.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks timidly at him.] Then I suppose you will soonbe gone, too, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Quickly.] What do you mean by that?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. That you will follow your sister.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Has Asta told you anything?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No. But you said yourself it was for Asta’s sake that—that we came together.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes, but you, you yourself, have bound me toyou—by our life together.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, in your eyes I am not—I am not—entrancinglybeautiful any more.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. The law of change may perhaps keep us to-gether, none the less.

LittleEyolf RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Nodding slowly.] There is a change in me now—Ifeel the anguish of it.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Anguish?

could you think of taking up your work again?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. The work that you have hated so?



70

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Anguish?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, for change, too, is a sort of birth.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. It is—or a resurrection. Transition to a higherlife.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Gazing sadly before her.] Yes—with the loss of all,all life’s happiness.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That loss is just the gain.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Vehemently.] Oh, phrases! Good God, we are crea-tures of earth after all.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But something akin to the sea and the heavenstoo, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You perhaps. Not I.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, yes—you too, more than you yourself sus-pect.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Advancing a pace towards him.] Tell me, Alfred—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I am easier to please now. I am willing to share youwith the book.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Why?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Only to keep you here with me—to have you nearme.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Oh, it is so little I can do to help you, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But perhaps I could help you.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. With my book, do you mean?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No; but to live your life.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] I seem to have no life to

live.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well then, to endure your life.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Darkly, looking away from her.] I think it wouldbe best for both of us that we should part.

IbsenRITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looking curiously at him.] Then where would yougo? Perhaps to Asta, after all?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS No—neveragain toAsta


RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, you are so silent about everything. You oughtnottobe



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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No—never again to Asta.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Where then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Up into the solitudes.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Up among the mountains? Is that what you mean?


RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But all that is mere dreaming, Alfred! You could notlive up there.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. And yet I feel myself drawn to them.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Why? Tell me!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Sit down—and I will tell you something.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Something that happened to you up there?


RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And that you never told Asta and me?

not to be.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Sit down there—and I will tell you about it.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, yes—tell me!

[She sits on the bench beside the summer-house.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I was alone up there, in the heart of the greatmountains. I came to a wide, dreary mountain lake; andthat lake I had to cross. But I could not—for there was nei-ther a boat nor any one there.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Well? And then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Then I went without any guidance into a sidevalley. I thought that by that way I could push on over theheights and between the peaks—and then down again on

the other side of the lake.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, and you lost yourself, Alfred!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes; I mistook the direction—for there was nopath or track. And all day I went on—and all the next night.

LittleEyolf And at last I thought I should never see the face of managain.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA Not come home to us? Oh then I amsure your

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, don’t say such things, Alfred! You see you camesafely out of it, after all.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS Yes; all of a sudden I found myself where I



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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not come home to us? Oh, then, I am sure yourthoughts were with us here.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No—they were not.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Not?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. No. It was so strange. Both you and Eyolf seemed to have drifted far, far away from me—and Asta,too.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then what did you think of?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I did not think. I dragged myself along amongthe precipices—and revelled in the peace and luxury of death.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Springing up.] Oh, don’t speak in that way of that

horror!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I did not feel it so. I had no fear. Here wentdeath and I, it seemed to me, like two good fellow-travel-lers. It all seemed so natural—so simple, I thought. In myfamily, we don’t live to be old—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes; all of a sudden, I found myself where Iwanted to be—on the other side of the lake.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. It must have been a night of terror for you, Alfred.But now that it is over, you will not admit it to yourself.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. That night sealed my resolution. And it wasthen that I turned about and came straight homewards. ToEyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly.] Too late.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes. And then when—my fellow-traveller cameand took him—then I felt the horror of it; of it all; of allthat, in spite of everything, we dare not tear ourselves awayfrom. So earthbound are we, both of us, Rita.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [With a gleam of joy.] Yes, you are, too, are you not!

[Coming close to him.] Oh, let us live our life together aslong as we can!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shrugging his shoulders.] Live our life, yes!And have nothing to fill life with. An empty void on allsides—wherever I look.

IbsenRITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [In fear.] Oh, sooner or later you will go away fromme, Alfred! I feel it! I can see it in your face! You will goaway from me.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes. The whole village down there ought to beswept away. Now the men have come home—drunk, as theyalways are. They are beating the children—do you hear theboyscrying!Thewomenareshriekingforhelpforthem—



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ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. With my fellow-traveller, do you mean?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, I mean worse than that. Of your own free will—you will leave me—for you think it’s only here, with me,that you have nothing to live for. Is not that what is in yourthoughts?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking steadfastly at her.] What if it were—?

[A disturbance, and the noise of angry, quarrelling voices isheard from down below, in the distance. ALLMERSgoes tothe railing.]

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. What is that? [With an outburst.] Oh, you’ll see, theyhave found him!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. He will never be found.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. But what is it then?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming forward.] Only fighting—as usual.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Down on the beach?

boys crying! The women are shrieking for help for them

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Should we not get some one to go down and help them?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Harshly and angrily.] Help them, who did nothelp Eyolf! Let them go—as they let Eyolf go.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, you must not talk like that, Alfred! Nor thinklike that!

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. I cannot think otherwise. All the old hovelsought to be torn down.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And then what is to become of all the poor people?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. They must go somewhere else.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. And the children, too?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Does it make much difference where they goto the dogs?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Quietly and reproachfully.] You are forcing yourself into this harshness, Alfred.

LittleEyolf ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Vehemently.] I have a right to be harsh now! Itis my duty.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Your duty?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I will take them to my heart.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. You!



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y

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. My duty to Eyolf. He must not lie unavenged.

Once for all, Rita—it is as I tell you! Think it over! Havethe whole place down there razed to the ground—when Iam gone.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Looks intently at him.] When you are gone?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes. For that will at least give you somethingto fill your life with—and something you must have.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Firmly and decidedly.] There you are right—I must.But can you guess what I will set about—when you are gone?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, what?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Slowly and with resolution.] As soon as you are gone

from me, I will go down to the beach, and bring all the poorneglected children home with me. All the mischievousboys—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What will you do with them here?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, I will. From the day you leave me, they shall allbe here, all of them, as if they were mine.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shocked.] In our little Eyolf’s place!

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, in our little Eyolf’s place. They shall live in Eyolf’srooms. They shall read his books. They shall play with histoys. They shall take it in turns to sit in his chair at table.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. But this is sheer madness in you! I do not knowa creature in the world that is less fitted than you for any-thing of that sort.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Then I shall have to educate myself for it; to trainmyself; to discipline myself.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If you are really in earnest about this—about

all you say—then there must indeed be a change in you.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Yes, there is, Alfred—and for that I have you to thank. You have made an empty place within me; and I must try tofill it up with something—with something that is a littlelike love.

IbsenALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Stands for a moment lost in thought; then looksat her.] The truth is, we have not done much for the poorpeople down there.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I suppose I must try if I cannot lighten and—andennoble their lot in life.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. If you can do that—then Eyolf was not born in



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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. We have done nothing for them.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Scarcely even thought of them.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Never thought of them in sympathy.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. We, who had “the gold, and the green forests”—

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Our hands were closed to them. And our hearts too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Nods.] Then it was perhaps natural enough, af-ter all, that they should not risk their lives to save little Eyolf.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly.] Think, Alfred! Are you so certain that—that we would have risked ours?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [With an uneasy gesture of repulsion.] You must

never doubt that.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Oh, we are children of earth.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What do you really think you can do with allthese neglected children?

y yvain.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Nor taken from us in vain, either.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Looking steadfastly at her.] Be quite clear aboutone thing, Rita—it is not love that is driving you to this.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, it is not—at any rate, not yet.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Well, then what is it?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Half-evasively.] You have so often talked to Asta of human responsibility—

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Of the book that you hated.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. I hate that book still. But I used to sit and listen to

what you told her. And now I will try to continue it—in myown way.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Shaking his head.] It is not for the sake of thatunfinished book—

LittleEyolf RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. No, I have another reason as well.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. What is that?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. You will see—that now and then a Sabbath peacewill descend on us.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Quietly, with emotion.] Then, perhaps, we shall



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RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Softly, with a melancholy smile.] I want to make mypeace with the great, open eyes, you see.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Struck, fixing his eyes upon her.] Perhaps, Icould join you in that? And help you, Rita?

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. Would you?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Yes—if I were only sure I could.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Hesitatingly.] But then you would have to remainhere.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Softly.] Let us try if it could not be so.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Almost inaudibly.] Yes, let us, Alfred.

[Both are silent. Then ALLMERS goes up to the flagstaff and hoists the flag to the top. RITA stands beside the sum-mer-house and looks at him in silence.]

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Coming forward again.] We have a heavy dayof work before us, Rita.

know that the spirits are with us.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Whispering.] The spirits?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [As before.] Yes, they will perhaps be aroundus—those whom we have lost.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Nods slowly.] Our little Eyolf. And your big Eyolf,too.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Gazing straight before him.] Now and then,perhaps, we may still—on the way through life—have alittle, passing glimpse of them.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. When, shall we look for them, Alfred?

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. [Fixing his eyes upon her.] Upwards.

RITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Nods in approval.] Yes, yes—upwards.

ALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERSALLMERS. Upwards—towards the peaks. Towards thestars. And towards the great silence.

IbsenRITRITRITRITRITAAAAA. [Giving him her hand.] Thanks!



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Ibsen Little Wolf

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