Dr. Stockmann.
Well then, I promise you—; look here—in that case you may print my paper—put it in just as it is.
Hovstad.
May I? Is that a promise?
Dr. Stockmann.
[Handing him the manuscript.] There it is; take it with you. You may as well read it in any case; you can return it to me afterwards.
Hovstad.
Very good; I shall do so. And now, good-bye, Doctor.
Dr. Stockmann.
Good-bye, good-bye. You'll see it will all go smoothly, Mr. Hovstad—as smoothly as possible.
Hovstad.
H'm—we shall see.
[Bows and goes out through the hall.
Dr. Stockmann.
[Going to the dining-room door and looking in.] Katrina! Hallo! are you back, Petra?
Petra.
[Entering.] Yes, I've just got back from school.
Mrs. Stockmann.
[Entering.] Hasn't he been here yet?
Dr. Stockmann.
Peter? No; but I have been having a long
