HILDA.
But why did you keep putting it off like that?
SOLNESS.
Because I was revolving something in my mind. [Slowly, and in a low
voice.] Through that little black crack in the chimney, I might,
perhaps, force my way upwards--as a builder.
HILDA.
[Looking straight in front of her.] That must have been thrilling.
SOLNESS.
Almost irresistible--quite irresistible. For at that time it
appeared to me a perfectly simple and straightforward matter. I
would have had it happen in the winter-time--a little before midday.
I was to be out driving Aline in the sleigh. The servants at home
would have made huge fires in the stoves.
HILDA.
For, of course, it was to be bitterly cold that day?
SOLNESS.
Rather biting, yes--and they would want Aline to find it thoroughly
snug and warm when she came home.
HILDA.
I suppose she is very chilly by nature?
SOLNESS.
She is. And as we drove home, we were to see the smoke.
HILDA.
Only the smoke?
SOLNESS.
The smoke first. But when we came up to the garden gate, the whole
of the old timber-box was to be a rolling mass of flames.--That is
how I wanted it to be, you see.
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