whispers]. Erhart! At last! [She rises and draws the curtain a little aside to look out. Appears disappointed, and sits down to her work again, on the sofa. Presently THE MAID enters from the hall with a visiting card on a small tray. MRS. BORKMAN. [Quickly.] Has Mr. Erhart come after all? THE MAID. No, ma'am. But there's a lady---- MRS. BORKMAN. [Laying aside her crochet.] Oh, Mrs. Wilton, I suppose---- THE MAID. [Approaching.] No, it's a strange lady---- MRS. BORKMAN. [Taking the card.] Let me see---- [Reads it; rises hastily and looks intently at the girl.] Are you sure this is for me? THE MAID. Yes, I understand it was for you, ma'am. MRS. BORKMAN. Did she say she wanted to see Mrs. Borkman? THE MAID. Yes, she did. MRS. BORKMAN. [Shortly, resolutely.] Good. Then say I am at home. [THE MAID opens the door for the strange lady and goes out. MISS ELLA RENTHEIM enters. She resembles her sister; but her face has rather a suffering than a hard expression. It still shows signs of great beauty, combined with strong character. She has a great deal of hair, which is drawn back from the forehead in natural ripples, and is snow-white. She is dressed in black velvet, with a hat and a fur-lined cloak of the same material. [The two sisters stand silent for a time, and look searchingly at each other. Each is evidently waiting for the other to speak first. ELLA RENTHEIM. [Who has remained near the door.] You are surprised to see me, Gunhild.