Nordan. So I was. But when I got telegram after telegram, as long as they could reach me, and then one express letter after another--and now the end of it all is--well, I don't suppose I dare even mention his name here now? (RIIS comes in from his room.) Riis. At last! We have been so anxious for you to come! Mrs. Riis (who has at last risen and come forward). Thank you for coming, dear doctor! Nordan (looking at her). There is something serious up, then? Mrs. Riis. I have something I want to say to you. Nordan. Yes, but just now away you go, you two! Let me talk to this booby. (MRS. RIIS goes out to the left. SVAVA follows her for a minute.) Riis. I just want to tell you that in a little while-- Nordan.--the whole pack of Christensens will be here? I know that. Go away now. Riis. Nordan! (Whispers to him.) Nordan. Yes, yes!--Quite so!--No, of course not! (Tries to stop his whispering.) Do you suppose I don't know what I am about? Be off with you! (SVAVA comes in, as her father goes out.) Svava. Dear Uncle Nordan! At last, somebody that will agree with me! Nordan. Am I? Svava. Oh, Uncle Nordan, you don't know what these days have been like! Nordan. And the nights too, I expect?--although, with all that, you don't look so bad. Svava. The last night or two I have slept. Nordan. Really? Then I see how things stand. You are a tough customer, you are! Svava. Oh, don't begin saying a lot of things you don't mean, uncle. Nordan. Things I don't mean! Svava. You always do, you know. But we haven't time for that now. I am all on fire! Nordan. Well, what is this you have been doing? Svava. Ah, you see, you are beginning again! Nordan. Beginning again? Who the devil has put the idea into your head that I ever say anything but what I mean? Come and let us sit down. (Brings a chair forward.) Svava (bringing her chair close to his). There now! Nordan. Since I was here last, I believe you have promulgated a brand-new law on the subject of love? I congratulate you. Svava. Have I? Nordan. A superhuman, Svava-woven one--derived from seraphic heights, I should imagine! "There shall be only one love in a man's life, and it shall be directed only to one object." Full stop! Svava. Have I said anything like that? Nordan. Is it not you that have thrown over a young man because he has had the audacity to fall in love before he saw you? Svava. Do you take it in that way, too? Nordan. In that way? Is there any other way for a sensible man to take it? A fine young fellow honesty, adores you; a distinguished family throw their doors wide open to you, as if you were a princess; and then you turn round and say: "You have not waited for me ever since you were a child! Away with you!" Svava (springing up). What, you too! You too! And the same talk! The same stupid talk!