to spoil my morning by quarreling. Ida may try to straighten things
out with you. I am going to my flowers. [_Takes the box and exit
toward the garden._]

OLDENDORF.

What has put your father in such a bad humor? Has something in the
newspaper vexed him again?

IDA.

I do not think so. But it annoys him that now in politics you again
find it necessary to advocate measures he detests and attack
institutions he reveres. (_Shyly._) Edward, is it really impossible
for you to withdraw from the election?

OLDENDORF.

It is impossible.

IDA.

I should then have you here, and father could regain his good humor;
for he would highly appreciate the sacrifice you were making for him,
and we could look forward to a future as peaceful as our past has
been.

OLDENDORF.

I know that, Ida, and I feel anything but pleasure at the prospect of