ELLA RENTHEIM. Yes, it is possible--in spite of everything. And it is true. I love Erhart--as much as I can love any one--now--at my time of life. MRS. BORKMAN. Well, well, suppose you do: what then? ELLA RENTHEIM. Why, then, I am troubled as soon as I see anything threatening him. MRS. BORKMAN. Threatening Erhart! Why, what should threaten him? Or who? ELLA RENTHEIM. You in the first place--in your way. MRS. BORKMAN. [Vehemently.] I! ELLA RENTHEIM. And then this Mrs. Wilton, too, I am afraid. MRS. BORKMAN. [Looks at her for a moment in speechless surprise.] And you think such things of Erhart! Of my own boy! He, who has his great mission to fulfil! ELLA RENTHEIM. [Lightly.] Oh, his mission! MRS. BORKMAN. [Indignantly.] How dare you say that so scornfully? ELLA RENTHEIM. Do you think a young man of Erhart's age, full of health and spirits--do you think he is going to sacrifice himself for--for such a thing as a "mission"? MRS. BORKMAN. [Firmly and emphatically.] Erhart will! I know he will. ELLA RENTHEIM. [Shaking her head.] You neither know it nor believe it, Gunhild. MRS. BORKMAN. I don't believe it! ELLA RENTHEIM.