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Gregers. Father, won't you stay a moment?

Werle (stops). What is it?

Gregers. I must have a word with you.

Werle. Can it not wait till we are alone?

Gregers. No, it cannot; for perhaps we shall never be alone together.

Werle (drawing nearer). What do you mean by that?

_During what follows, the pianoforte is faintly heard from the distant music−room. _

Gregers. How has that family been allowed to go so miserably to the wall?

Werle. You mean the Ekdals, I suppose.

Gregers. Yes, I mean the Ekdals. Lieutenant Ekdal was once so closely associated with you.

Werle. Much too closely; I have felt that to my cost for many a year. It is thanks to him that I yes I have had a kind of slur cast upon my reputation.

Gregers (softly). Are you sure that he alone was to blame?

Werle. Who else