Part 15

TESMAN.

I haven't see her either for--heaven knows how long. I wonder how she can endure to live in such an out-of-the way hole--eh?

HEDDA.

TESMAN.

Yes, he is somewhere in that part of the country.

BERTA enters by the hall door.

BERTA.

That lady, ma'am, that brought some flowers a little while ago, is here again. [Pointing.] The flowers you have in your hand, ma'am.

HEDDA.

Ah, is she? Well, please show her in.

BERTA opens the door for MRS. ELVSTED, and goes out herself. --MRS. ELVSTED is a woman of fragile figure, with pretty, soft features. Her eyes are light blue, large, round, and somewhat prominent, with a startled, inquiring expression. Her hair is remarkably light, almost flaxen, and unusually abundant and wavy. She is a couple of years younger than HEDDA. She wears a dark visiting dress, tasteful, but not quite in the latest fashion.

HEDDA.

MRS. ELVSTED.

TESMAN.

HEDDA.

Thanks for your lovely flowers--

MRS. ELVSTED.

Oh, not at all--. I would have come straight here yesterday afternoon; but I heard that you were away--

TESMAN.

Have you just come to town? Eh?

MRS. ELVSTED.

I arrived yesterday, about midday. Oh, I was quite in despair when I heard that you were not at home.

HEDDA.

In despair! How so?

TESMAN.

Why, my dear Mrs. Rysing--I mean Mrs. Elvsted--

HEDDA.

I hope that you are not in any trouble?