estion of how far it might be possible to introduce certain
improvements consistently with a reasonable expenditure.

Dr. Stockmann. And do you suppose that I will have anything to do with
such a piece of trickery as that?

Peter Stockmann. Trickery!!

Dr. Stockmann. Yes, it would be a trick--a fraud, a lie, a downright
crime towards the public, towards the whole community!

Peter Stockmann. I have not, as I remarked before, been able to
convince myself that there is actually any imminent danger.

Dr. Stockmann. You have! It is impossible that you should not be
convinced. I know I have represented the facts absolutely truthfully
and fairly. And you know it very well, Peter, only you won't
acknowledge it. It was owing to your action that both the Baths and the
water conduits were built where they are; and that is what you won't
acknowledge--that damnable blunder of yours. Pooh!--do you suppose I
don't see through you?

Peter Stockmann. And even if that were true? If I perhaps guard my
reputation somewhat anxiously, it is in the interests of the town.
Without moral authority I am powerless to direct public affairs as
seems, to my judgment, to be best for the common good. And on that
account--and for various other reasons too--it appears to me to be a
matter of importance that your report should not be delivered to the
Committee. In the interests of the public, you must withhold it. Then,
later on, I will raise the question and we will do our best, privately;
but, nothing of this unfortunate affair not a single word of it--must
come to the ears of the public.

Dr. Stockmann. I am afraid you will not be able to prevent that now, my
dear Peter.

Peter Stockmann. It must and shall be prevented.

Dr. Stockmann. It is no use, I tell you. There are too many people that
know about it.

Peter Stockmann. That know about it? Who? Surely you don't mean those
fellows on the "People's Messenger"?

Dr. Stockmann. Yes, they know. The liberal-minded independent press is
going to see that you do your duty.

Peter Stockmann (after a short pause). You are an extraordinarily
independent man, Thomas. Have you given no thought to the consequences
this may have for yourself?

Dr. Stockmann. Consequences?--for me?

Peter Stockmann. For you and yours, yes.

Dr. Stockmann. What the deuce do you mean?

Peter Stockmann. I believe I have always behaved in a brotherly way to
you--haven't I always been ready to oblige or to help you