Nora.  No, that was impossible.  That trip was to save my husband’s life; I couldn’t give that up.

Krogstad.  But did it never occur to you that you were committing a fraud on me?

Nora.  I couldn’t take that into account; I didn’t trouble myself about you at all.  I couldn’t bear you, because you put so many heartless difficulties in my way, although you knew what a dangerous condition my husband was in.

Krogstad.  Mrs. Helmer, you evidently do not realise clearly what it is that you have been guilty of.  But I can assure you that my one false step, which lost me all my reputation, was nothing more or nothing worse than what you have done.

Nora.  You?  Do you ask me to believe that you were brave enough to run a risk to save your wife’s life.

Krogstad.  The law cares nothing about motives.

Nora.  Then it must be a very foolish law.

Krogstad.  Foolish or not, it is the law by which you will be judged, if I produce this paper in court.

Nora.  I don’t believe it.  Is a daughter not to be allowed to spare her dying father anxiety and care?  Is a wife not to be allowed to save her husband’s life?  I don’t know much about law; but I am certain that there must be laws permitting such things as that.  Have you no knowledge of such laws—­you who are a lawyer?  You must be a very poor lawyer, Mr. Krogstad.

Krogstad.  Maybe.  But matters of business—­such business as you and I have had together—­do you think I don’t understand that?  Very well.  Do as you please.  But let me tell you this—­if I lose my position a second time, you shall lose yours with me. (He bows, and goes out through the hall.)

Nora (appears buried in thought for a short time, then tosses her head).  Nonsense!  Trying to frighten me like that!—­I am not so silly as he thinks. (Begins to busy herself putting the children’s things in order.) And yet—?  No, it’s impossible!  I did it for love’s sake.

The Children (in the doorway on the left.) Mother, the stranger man has gone out through the gate.

Nora.  Yes, dears, I know.  But, don’t tell anyone about the stranger man.  Do you hear?  Not even papa.

Children.  No, mother; but will you come and play again?

Nora.  No no,—­not now.

_ Children_.  But, mother, you promised us.

Nora.  Yes, but I can’t now.  Run away in; I have such a lot to do.  Run away in, sweet little darlings. (She gets them into the room by degrees and shuts the door on them; then sits down on the sofa, takes up a piece of needlework and sews a few stitches, but soon stops.) No! (Throws down the work, gets up, goes to the hall door and calls out.) Helen, bring the Tree in. (Goes to the table on the left, opens a drawer, and stops again.) No, no! it is quite impossible!