Part 64

MRS. ELVSTED.

Oh, I hope he may.

HEDDA.

And then, you see--then he will have regained control over himself. Then he will be a free man for all his days.

MRS. ELVSTED.

Oh God!--if he would only come as you see him now!

HEDDA.

He will come as I see him--so, and not otherwise! [Rises and approaches THEA.] You may doubt him as long as you please; I believe in him. And now we will try--

MRS. ELVSTED.

You have some hidden motive in this, Hedda!

HEDDA.

Yes, I have. I want for once in my life to have power to mould a human destiny.

MRS. ELVSTED.

Have you not the power?

HEDDA.

I have not--and have never had it.

MRS. ELVSTED.

Not your husband's?

HEDDA.

Do you think that is worth the trouble? Oh, if you could only understand how poor I am. And fate has made you so rich! [Clasps her passionately in her arms.] I think I must burn your hair off after all.

MRS. ELVSTED.

Let me go! Let me go! I am afraid of you, Hedda!

BERTA.

HEDDA.

Very well. We are coming

MRS. ELVSTED.

No, no, no! I would rather go home alone! At once!

HEDDA.