Editors of the stamp of _Hovstad_ seldom dare to express their real opinions. They cannot afford to "scare away" their readers. They generally yield to the most ignorant and vulgar public opinion; they do not set themselves up against constituted authority. Therefore the _People's Messenger_ drops the "greatest man" in town when it learns that the _Burgomaster_ and the influential citizens are determined that the truth shall be silenced. The _Burgomaster_ soundly denounces his brother's "rebellion." _Burgomaster._ The public doesn't need new ideas. The public is best served by the good old recognized ideas that they have already.... As an official, you've no right to have any individual conviction. _Dr. Stockmann._ The source is poisoned, man! Are you mad? We live by trafficking in filth and garbage. The whole of our developing social life is rooted in a lie! _Burgomaster._ Idle fancies--or something worse. The man who makes such offensive insinuations against his own native place must be an enemy of society. _Dr. Stockmann._ And I must bear such treatment! In my own house. Katrine! What do you think of it? _Mrs. Stockmann._ Indeed, it is a shame and an insult, Thomas----.... But, after all, your brother has the power---- _Dr. Stockmann._ Yes, but I have the right! _Mrs. Stockmann._ Ah, yes, right, right! What is the good of being right when you haven't any might? _Dr. Stockmann._ What! No good in a free society to have right on your side? You are absurd, Katrine. And besides, haven't I the free and independent press with me? The compact majority behind me? That's might enough, I should think! _Katrine Stockmann_ is wiser than her husband. For he who has no might need hope for no right. The good _Doctor_ has to drink the bitter cup to the last drop before he realizes the wisdom of his wife.