Part 61 (1/2)

MRS. SOLNESS.

It has all become so strange to me. I am almost afraid to see it again.

HILDA.

Your own garden!

MRS. SOLNESS.

I don't feel that it is mine any longer.

HILDA.

What do you mean--?

MRS. SOLNESS.

No, no, it is not--not as it was in my mother's and father's time. They have taken away so much--so much of the garden, Miss w.a.n.gel. Fancy--they have parcelled it out--and built houses for strangers--people that I don't know. And they can sit and look in upon me from their windows.

HILDA.

[With a bright expression.] Mrs. Solness!

MRS. SOLNESS.

Yes?

HILDA.

May I stay here with you a little?

MRS. SOLNESS.

Yes, by all means, if you care to.

[HILDA moves a stool close to the arm-chair and sits down.

HILDA.

Ah--here one can sit and sun oneself like a cat.