_Nora_. I couldn't take that into account; I didn't trouble myself about you at all. I couldn't bear you, because you put so many heartless difficulties in my way, although you knew what a dangerous condition my husband was in. _Krogstad_. Mrs. Helmer, you evidently do not realise clearly what it is that you have been guilty of. But I can assure you that my one false step, which lost me all my reputation, was nothing more or nothing worse than what you have done. _Nora_. You? Do you ask me to believe that you were brave enough to run a risk to save your wife's life. _Krogstad_. The law cares nothing about motives. _Nora_. Then it must be a very foolish law. _Krogstad_. Foolish or not, it is the law by which you will be judged, if I produce this paper in court. _Nora_. I don't believe it. Is a daughter not to be allowed to spare her dying father anxiety and care? Is a wife not to be allowed to save her husband's life? I don't know much about law; but I am certain that there must be laws permitting such things as that. Have you no knowledge of such laws--you who are a lawyer? You must be a very poor lawyer, Mr. Krogstad. _Krogstad_. Maybe. But matters of business--such business as you and I have had together--do you think I don't understand that? Very well. Do as you please. But let me tell you this--if I lose my position a second time, you shall lose yours with me. (_He bows, and goes out through the hall_.) _Nora_ (_appears buried in thought for a short time, then tosses her head)_. Nonsense! Trying to frighten me like that!--I am not so silly as he thinks. (_Begins to busy herself putting the children's things in order_.) And yet--? No, it's impossible! I did it for love's sake. _The Children_ (_in the doorway on the left.)_ Mother, the stranger man has gone out through the gate. _Nora_. Yes, dears, I know. But, don't tell anyone about the stranger man. Do you hear? Not even papa. _Children_. No, mother; but will you come and play again? _Nora_. No no,--not now. _ Children_. But, mother, you promised us. _Nora_. Yes, but I can't now. Run away in; I have such a lot to do. Run away in, sweet little darlings. (_She gets them into the room by degrees and shuts the door on them; then sits down on the sofa, takes up a piece of needlework and sews a few stitches, but soon stops_.) No! (_Throws down the work, gets up, goes to the hall door and calls out_.) Helen, bring the Tree in. (_Goes to the table on the left, opens a drawer, and stops again_.) No, no! it is quite impossible! _Maid_ (_coming in with the Tree_). Where shall I put it, ma'am? _Nora_. Here, in the middle of the floor. _Maid_. Shall I get you anything else? _Nora_. No, thank you. I have all I want. [_Exit_ MAID