Yes, do you remember, Petra? I wrote against it when they were beginning the works. But no one would listen to me then. Now, you may be sure, I shall give them my full broadside—for of course I've prepared a statement for the Directors; it has been lying ready a whole week; I've only been waiting for this report. [_Points to letter._] But now they shall have it at once. [_Goes into his room and returns with a MS. in his hand._] See! Four closely-written sheets! And I'll enclose the report. A newspaper, Katrina! Get me something to wrap them up in. There—that’s it. Give it to—to—[_Stamps._]—what the devil’s her name? Give it to the girl, I mean, and tell her to take it at once to the Burgomaster. [MRS. STOCKMANN _goes out with the packet through the dining-room._ PETRA. What do you think Uncle Peter will say, father? DR. STOCKMANN. What should he say? He can’t possibly be otherwise than pleased that so important a fact has been brought to light. HOVSTAD. I suppose you will let me put a short announcement of your discovery in the _Messenger_. DR. STOCKMANN. Yes, I shall be much obliged if you will. HOVSTAD. It is highly desirable that the public should know about it as soon as possible. DR. STOCKMANN. Yes, certainly. MRS. STOCKMANN. [_Returning._] She’s gone with it. BILLING. Strike me dead if you won’t be the first man in the town, Doctor! DR. STOCKMANN. [_Walks up and down in high glee._] Oh, nonsense! After all, I have done no more than my duty. I've been a lucky treasure-hunter, that’s all. But all the same—— BILLING. Hovstad, don’t you think the town ought to get up a torchlight procession in honour of Dr. Stockmann? HOVSTAD. I shall certainly propose it. BILLING. And I'll talk it over with Aslaksen. DR. STOCKMANN. No, my dear friends; let all such claptrap alone. I won’t hear of anything of the sort. And if the Directors should want to raise my salary, I won’t accept it. I tell you, Katrina, I will not accept it. MRS. STOCKMANN. You are quite right, Thomas. PETRA. [_Raising her glass._] Your health, father! HOVSTAD _and_ BILLING. Your health, your health, Doctor! HORSTER. [_Clinking glasses with the_ DOCTOR.] I hope you may have nothing but joy of your discovery. DR. STOCKMANN.