Part 19 (1/2)

I don't say so. But that was how Judge Brack understood it.

LOVBORG.

Well, let him.

HEDDA.

Then you are not going with them?

LOVBORG.

I will stay here with you and Thea.

MRS. ELVSTED.

Yes, Hedda-how can you doubt that?

HEDDA.

[Smiles and nods approvingly to LOVBORG.] Firm as a rock! Faithful to your principles, now and for ever! Ah, that is how a man should be! [Turns to MRS. ELVSTED and caresses her.] Well now, what did I tell you, when you came to us this morning in such a state of distraction- LOVBORG.

[Surprised.] Distraction!

MRS. ELVSTED.

[Terrified.] Hedda-oh Hedda-!

HEDDA.

You can see for yourself! You haven't the slightest reason to be in such mortal terror- [Interrupting herself.] There! Now we can all three enjoy ourselves!

LOVBORG.

[Who has given a start.] Ah-what is all this, Mrs. Tesman?

MRS. ELVSTED.

Oh my G.o.d, Hedda! What are you saying? What are you doing?

HEDDA.

Don't get excited! That horrid Judge Brack is sitting watching you.

LOVBORG.

So she was in mortal terror! On my account!

MRS. ELVSTED.

[Softly and piteously.] Oh, Hedda-now you have ruined everything!

LOVBORG.

[Looks fixedly at her for a moment. His face is distorted.] So that was my comrade's frank confidence in me?

MRS. ELVSTED.

[Imploringly.] Oh, my dearest friend-only let me tell you- LOVBORG.

[Takes one of the gla.s.ses of punch, raises it to his lips, and says in a low, husky voice.] Your health, Thea!

[He empties the gla.s.s, puts it down, and takes the second.

MRS. ELVSTED.

[Softly.] Oh, Hedda, Hedda-how could you do this?

HEDDA.

I do it? I? Are you crazy?

LOVBORG.

Here's to your health too, Mrs. Tesman. Thanks for the truth. Hurrah for the truth!

[He empties the gla.s.s and is about to re-fill it.

HEDDA.

[Lays her hand on his arm.] Come, come-no more for the present. Remember you are going out to supper.

MRS. ELVSTED.

No, no, no!

HEDDA.

Hus.h.!.+ They are sitting watching you.

LOVBORG.

[Putting down the gla.s.s.] Now, Thea-tell me the truth- MRS. ELVSTED.

Yes.

LOVBORG.

Did your husband know that you had come after me?

MRS. ELVSTED.