In this country, almost without exception, it is
only foreigners who have settled here who have the aptitude for
big business schemes. That is the reason why my conscience
acquits me in the matter. It is only in my hands that these
properties can become a real blessing to the many who have to
make their daily bread.
Lona: I believe you are right there, Karsten.
Johan: But I have no concern with the many, and my life's
happiness is at stake.
Bernick: The welfare of your native place is also at stake. If
things come out which cast reflections on my earlier conduct,
then all my opponents will fall upon me with united vigour. A
youthful folly is never allowed to be forgotten in our community.
They would go through the whole of my previous life, bring up a
thousand little incidents in it, interpret and explain
them in the light of what has been revealed; they would crush me
under the weight of rumours and slanders. I should be obliged to
abandon the railway scheme; and, if I take my hand off that, it
will come to nothing, and I shall be ruined and my life as a
citizen will be over.
Lona: Johan, after what we have just heard, you must go away from
here and hold your tongue.
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