Part 101

HEDDA.

And what is that?

BRACK.

The pistol he carried--

HEDDA.

BRACK.

He must have stolen it.

HEDDA.

BRACK.

No other explanation is possible. He must have stolen it--. Hush!

TESMAN and MRS. ELVSTED have risen from the table in the back- room, and come into the drawing-room.

TESMAN.

HEDDA.

Yes, I am thinking.

TESMAN.

Would you mind our sitting at your writing-table--eh?

HEDDA.

If you like. [Quickly.] No, wait! Let me clear it first!

TESMAN.

Oh, you needn't trouble, Hedda. There is plenty of room.

HEDDA.

No no, let me clear it, I say! I will take these things in and put them on the piano. There!

HEDDA.

MRS. ELVSTED.

TESMAN.

We must manage it. I am determined. And arranging other people's papers is just the work for me.

HEDDA.

BRACK.