KROGSTAD.
Oh, I have known your husband from our student days. I don't suppose he is any more unassailable than other husbands.
NORA.
If you speak slightly of my husband, I shall turn you out of the house.
KROGSTAD.
You are bold, Mrs. Helmer.
NORA.
I am not afraid of you any longer, As soon as the New Year comes, I shall in a very short time be free of the whole thing.
KROGSTAD.
(controlling himself). Listen to me, Mrs. Helmer. If necessary, I am prepared to fight for my small post in the Bank as if I were fighting for my life.
NORA.
So it seems.
KROGSTAD.
It is not only for the sake of the money; indeed, that weighs least with me in the matter. There is another reason — well, I may as well tell you. My position is this. I daresay you know, like everybody else, that once, many years ago, I was guilty of an indiscretion.
NORA.
I think I have heard something of the kind.
KROGSTAD.
The matter never came into court; but every way seemed to be closed to me after that. So I took to the business that you know of. I had to do something; and, honestly, don't think I've been one of the worst. But now I must cut myself free from all that. My sons are growing up; for their sake I must try and win back as much respect as I can in the town. This post in the Bank was like the first step up for me — and now your husband is going to kick me downstairs again into the mud.
