Solness.
[Interrupting, with a sweep of his hand.] Well, well, my dear doctor—don't let us discuss this any further. We had better agree to differ. [Changes to a tone of quiet amusement.] But look here now, doctor—h'm
Dr. Herdal.
Well?
SOLNESS.
Since you don't believe that I am—ill—and crazy—and mad, and so forth
Dr. Herdal.
What then?
Solness.
Then I daresay you fancy that I am an extremely happy man.
Dr. Herdal.
Is that mere fancy?
Solness.
[Laughs.] No, no—of course not! Heaven forbid! Only think—to be Solness the master builder! Halvard Solness! What could be more delightful?
Dr. Herdal.
Yes, I must say it seems to me you have had the luck on your side to an astounding degree.
Solness.
[Suppresses a gloomy smile.] So I have. I can't complain on that score.
Dr. Herdal.
First of all that grim old robbers' castle was
