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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e164904 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #66060 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/66060) diff --git a/old/66060-0.txt b/old/66060-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a968f63..0000000 --- a/old/66060-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,18776 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 1 -(of 11), by Henrik Ibsen - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 1 (of 11) - -Author: Henrik Ibsen - -Editor: William Archer - -Release Date: August 14, 2021 [eBook #66060] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -Produced by: Emmanuel Ackerman, Sigal Alon, Eileen Gormly and the Online - Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This - file was produced from images generously made available by The - Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COLLECTED WORKS OF HENRIK -IBSEN, VOL. 1 (OF 11) *** - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - Transcriber’s Note: - -This version of the text cannot represent certain typographical effects. -Italics are delimited with the ‘_’ character as _italic_. In the printed -original, emphasis is indicated by gesperrt (spaced) text, but is here -also delimited as the italic. - -Footnotes have been collected at the end of each section or act in which -they are referenced. - -Minor errors, attributable to the printer, have been corrected. Please -see the transcriber’s note at the end of this text for details regarding -the handling of any other textual issues encountered during its -preparation. - - - - -THE COLLECTED WORKS OF - HENRIK IBSEN - - VOLUME I - - LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT - - THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG - - LOVE'S COMEDY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - THE COLLECTED WORKS OF - HENRIK IBSEN - - _Copyright Edition. Complete in 11 Volumes._ - _Crown 8vo, price 4s. each._ - - =ENTIRELY REVISED AND EDITED BY= - =WILLIAM ARCHER= - - Vol. I. Lady Inger, The Feast at Solhoug, Love’s - Comedy - - Vol. II. The Vikings, The Pretenders - - Vol. III. Brand - - Vol. IV. Peer Gynt - - Vol. V. Emperor and Galilean (2 parts) - - Vol. VI. The League of Youth, Pillars of Society - - Vol. VII. A Doll’s House, Ghosts - - Vol. VIII. An Enemy of the People, The Wild Duck - - Vol. IX. Rosmersholm, The Lady from the Sea - - Vol. X. Hedda Gabler, The Master Builder - - Vol. XI. Little Eyolf, John Gabriel Borkman, When - We Dead Awaken - - LONDON: WILLIAM HEINEMANN - 21 BEDFORD STREET, W.C. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - THE COLLECTED WORKS OF - HENRIK IBSEN - - COPYRIGHT EDITION - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - VOLUME I - - LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT - - THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG - - LOVE'S COMEDY - - WITH INTRODUCTIONS BY - - WILLIAM ARCHER - - AND - - C. H. HERFORD, LITT.D., M.A. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -[Illustration: title page] - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - LONDON - WILLIAM HEINEMANN - 1910 - - - - - - - - - _First printed (Collected Edition)_ 1908 - _Second Impression_ 1910 - - - - - - - - - _Copyright_ 1908 _by William Heinemann_ - - - - - CONTENTS - - - PAGE - - GENERAL PREFACE vii - - INTRODUCTION TO “LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT” xvii - - INTRODUCTION TO “THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG” xxxiii - - INTRODUCTION TO “LOVE’S COMEDY” xxxvii - - “LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT” 1 - _Translated by_ CHARLES ARCHER - - “THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG” 181 - _Translated by_ - WILLIAM ARCHER and MARY MORISON - - “LOVE’S COMEDY” 285 - _Translated by_ C. H. HERFORD - - - - - GENERAL PREFACE - - - The eleven volumes of this edition contain all, save one, of the - dramas which Henrik Ibsen himself admitted to the canon of his - works. The one exception is his earliest, and very immature, - tragedy, _Catilina_, first published in 1850, and republished in - 1875. This play is interesting in the light reflected from the - poet’s later achievements, but has little or no inherent value. A - great part of its interest lies in the very crudities of its style, - which it would be a thankless task to reproduce in translation. - Moreover, the poet impaired even its biographical value by largely - rewriting it before its republication. He did not make it, or - attempt to make it, a better play, but he in some measure corrected - its juvenility of expression. Which version, then, should a - translator choose? To go back to the original would seem a - deliberate disregard of the poet’s wishes; while, on the other hand, - the retouched version is clearly of far inferior interest. It seemed - advisable, therefore, to leave the play alone, so far as this - edition was concerned. Still more clearly did it appear unnecessary - to include _The Warrior’s Barrow_ and _Olaf Liliekrans_, two early - plays which were never admitted to any edition prepared by the poet - himself. They were included in a Supplementary Volume of the - Norwegian collected edition, issued in 1902, when Ibsen’s life-work - was over. They have even less intrinsic value than _Catilina_, and - ought certainly to be kept apart from the works by which he desired - to be remembered. A fourth youthful production, _St. John’s Night_, - remains to this day in manuscript. Not even German piety has dragged - it to light. - - With two exceptions, the plays appear in their chronological order. - The exceptions are _Love’s Comedy_, which ought by rights to come - between _The Vikings_ and _The Pretenders_, and _Emperor and - Galilean_, which ought to follow _The League of Youth_ instead of - preceding it. The reasons of convenience which prompted these - departures from the exact order are pretty obvious. It seemed highly - desirable to bring the two Saga Plays, if I may so call them, into - one volume; while as for _Emperor and Galilean_, it could not have - been placed between _The League of Youth_ and _Pillars of Society_ - save by separating its two parts, and assigning _Caesar’s Apostasy_ - to Volume V., _The Emperor Julian_ to Volume VI. - - For the translations of all the plays in this edition, except - _Love’s Comedy_ and _Brand_, I am ultimately responsible, in the - sense that I have exercised an unrestricted right of revision. This - means, of course, that, in plays originally translated by others, - the merits of the English version belong for the most part to the - original translator, while the faults may have been introduced, and - must have been sanctioned, by me. The revision, whether fortunate or - otherwise, has in all cases been very thorough. - - In their unrevised form, these translations have met with a good - deal of praise and with some blame. I trust that the revision has - rendered them more praiseworthy, but I can scarcely hope that it has - met all the objections of those critics who have found them - blameworthy. For, in some cases at any rate these objections - proceeded from theories of the translator’s function widely - divergent from my own—theories of which nothing, probably, could - disabuse the critic’s mind, save a little experience of the - difficulties of translating (as distinct from adapting) dramatic - prose. Ibsen is at once extremely easy and extremely difficult to - translate. It is extremely easy, in his prose plays, to realise his - meaning; it is often extremely difficult to convey it in natural, - colloquial, and yet not too colloquial, English. He is especially - fond of laying barbed-wire entanglements for the translator’s feet, - in the shape of recurrent phrases for which it is absolutely - impossible to find an equivalent that will fit in all the different - contexts. But this is only one of many classes of obstacles which - encountered us on almost every page. I think, indeed, that my - collaborators and I may take it as no small compliment that some of - our critics have apparently not realised the difficulties of our - task, or divined the laborious hours which have often gone to the - turning of a single phrase. And, in not a few cases, the - difficulties have proved sheer impossibilities. I will cite only one - instance. Writing of _The Master Builder_, a very competent, and - indeed generous, critic finds in it “a curious example of perhaps - inevitable inadequacy.... ‘Duty! Duty! Duty!’ Hilda once exclaims in - a scornful outburst. ‘What a short, sharp, stinging word!’ The - epithets do not seem specially apt. But in the original she cries - out ‘Pligt! Pligt! Pligt!’ and the very word stings and snaps.” I - submit that in this criticism there is one superfluous word—to wit, - the “perhaps” which qualifies “inevitable.” For the term used by - Hilda, and for the idea in her mind, there is only one possible - English equivalent: “Duty.” The actress can speak it so as more or - less to justify Hilda’s feeling towards it; and, for the rest, the - audience must “piece out our imperfections with their thoughts” and - assume that the Norwegian word has rather more of a sting in its - sound. It might be possible, no doubt, to adapt Hilda’s phrase to - the English word, and say, “It sounds like the swish of a whip - lash,” or something to that effect. But this is a sort of freedom - which, rightly or wrongly, I hold inadmissible. Once grant the right - of adaptation, even in small particulars, and it would be impossible - to say where it should stop. The versions here presented (of the - prose plays, at any rate) are translations, not paraphrases. If we - have ever dropped into paraphrase, it is a dereliction of principle; - and I do not remember an instance. For stage purposes, no doubt, a - little paring of rough edges is here and there allowable; but even - that, I think, should seldom go beyond the omission of lines which - manifestly lose their force in translation, or are incomprehensible - without a footnote. - - In the Introductions to previous editions I have always confined - myself to the statement of biographical and historic facts, holding - criticism no part of my business. Now that Henrik Ibsen has passed - away, and his works have taken a practically uncontested place in - world-literature, this reticence seemed no longer imposed upon me. I - have consequently made a few critical remarks on each play, chiefly - directed towards tracing the course of the poet’s technical - development. Nevertheless, the Introductions are still mainly - biographical, and full advantage has been taken of the stores of new - information contained in Ibsen’s Letters, and in the books and - articles about him that have appeared since his death. I have - prefixed to _Lady Inger of Östråt_ a sketch of the poet’s life down - to the date of that play; so that the Introductions, read in - sequence, will be found to form a pretty full record of a career - which, save for frequent changes of domicile, and the issuing of - play after play, was singularly uneventful. - - The Introductions to _Loves Comedy_ and _Brand_, as well as the - translations, are entirely the work of Professor Herford. - - A point of typography perhaps deserves remark. The Norwegian (and - German) method of indicating emphasis by spacing the letters of a - word, _thus_, has been adopted in this edition. It is preferable for - various reasons to the use of italics. In dramatic work, for one - thing, emphases have sometimes to be indicated so frequently that - the peppering of the page with italics would produce a very ugly - effect. But a more important point is this: the italic fount - suggests a stronger emphasis than the author, as a rule, intends. - The spacing of a word, especially if it be short, will often escape - the eye which does not look very closely; and this is as it should - be. Spacing, as Ibsen employs it, does not generally indicate any - obtrusive stress, but is merely a guide to the reader in case a - doubt should arise in his mind as to which of two words is intended - to be the more emphatic. When such a doubt occurs, the reader, by - looking closely at the text, will often find in the spacing an - indication which may at first have escaped him. In almost all cases, - a spaced word in the translation represents a spaced word in the - original. I have very seldom used spacing to indicate an emphasis - peculiar to the English phraseology. The system was first introduced - in 1897, in the translation of _John Gabriel Borkman_. It has no - longer even the disadvantage of unfamiliarity, since it has been - adopted by Mr. Bernard Shaw in his printed plays, and, I believe, by - other dramatists. - - * * * * * - - Just thirty years have passed since I first put pen to paper in a - translation of Ibsen. In October 1877, _Pillars of Society_ reached - me hot from the press; and, having devoured it, I dashed off a - translation of it in less than a week. It has since cost me five or - six times as much work in revision as it originally did in - translation. The manuscript was punctually returned to me by more - than one publisher; and something like ten years elapsed before it - slowly dawned on me that the translating and editing of Ibsen’s - works was to be one of the chief labours, as it has certainly been - one of the greatest privileges, of my life. Since 1887 or - thereabouts, not many months have passed in which a considerable - portion of my time has not been devoted to acting, in one form or - another, as intermediary between Ibsen and the English-speaking - public. The larger part of the work, in actual bulk, I have myself - done; but I have had invaluable aid from many quarters, and not - merely from those fellow workers who are named in the following - pages as the original translators of certain of the plays. These - “helpers and servers,” as Solness would say, are too many to be - individually mentioned; but to all of them, and chiefly to one who - has devoted to the service of Ibsen a good deal of the hard-won - leisure of Indian official life, I hereby convey my heartfelt - thanks. - - The task is now ended. Though it has involved not a little sheer - drudgery, it has, on the whole, been of absorbing interest. And I - should have been ungrateful indeed had I shrunk from drudgery in the - cause of an author who had meant so much to me. I have experienced - no other literary emotion at all comparable to the eagerness with - which, ever since 1877, I awaited each new play of Ibsen’s, or the - excitement with which I tore off the wrapper of the postal packets - in which the little paper-covered books arrived from Copenhagen. - People who are old enough to remember the appearance of the monthly - parts of _David Copperfield_ or _Pendennis_ may have some inkling of - my sensations; but they were all the intenser as they recurred at - intervals, not of one month, but of two years. And it was not Ibsen - the man of ideas or doctrines that meant so much to me; it was Ibsen - the pure poet, the creator of men and women, the searcher of hearts, - the weaver of strange webs of destiny. I can only trust that, by - diligence in seeking for the best interpretation of his thoughts, I - have paid some part of my debt to that great spirit, and to the - glorious country that gave him birth. - - WILLIAM ARCHER. - - LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT - - INTRODUCTION - - - Henrik Johan Ibsen was born on March 20, 1828, at the little seaport - of Skien, situated at the head of a long fiord on the south coast of - Norway. His great-great-grandfather was a Dane who settled in Bergen - about 1720. His great-grandmother, Wenche Dischington, was the - daughter of a Scotchman, who had settled and become naturalised in - Norway; and Ibsen himself was inclined to ascribe some of his - characteristics to the Scottish strain in his blood. Both his - grandmother (Plesner by name) and his mother, Maria Cornelia - Altenburg, were of German descent. It has been said that there was - not a drop of Norwegian blood in Ibsen’s composition; but it is - doubtful whether this statement can be substantiated. Most of his - male ancestors were sailors; but his father, Knud Ibsen, was a - merchant. When Henrik (his first child) was born, he seems to have - been prosperous, and to have led a very social and perhaps rather - extravagant life. But when the poet was eight years old financial - disaster overtook the family, and they had to withdraw to a - comparatively small farmhouse on the outskirts of the little town, - where they lived in poverty and retirement. - - As a boy, Ibsen appears to have been lacking in animal spirits and - the ordinary childish taste for games. Our chief glimpses of his - home life are due to his sister Hedvig, the only one of his family - with whom, in after years, he maintained any intercourse, and whose - name he gave to one of his most beautiful creations.[1] She relates - that the only out-door amusement he cared for was “building”—in what - material does not appear. Among indoor diversions, that to which he - was most addicted was conjuring, a younger brother serving as his - confederate. We also hear of his cutting out fantastically-dressed - figures in pasteboard, attaching them to wooden blocks, and ranging - them in groups or tableaux. He may be said, in short, to have had a - toy theatre without the stage. In all these amusements it is - possible, with a little goodwill, to divine the coming dramatist—the - constructive faculty, the taste for technical legerdemain (which - made him in his youth so apt a disciple of Scribe), and the - fundamental passion for manipulating fictitious characters. The - education he received was of the most ordinary, but included a - little Latin. The subjects which chiefly interested him were history - and religion. He showed no special literary proclivities, though a - dream which he narrated in a school composition so impressed his - master that he accused him (much to the boy’s indignation) of having - copied it out of some book. - - His chief taste was for drawing, and he was anxious to become an - artist; but his father could not afford to pay for his training.[2] - At the age of fifteen, therefore, he had to set about earning his - living, and was apprenticed to an apothecary in Grimstad, a town on - the south-west coast of Norway, between Arendal and Christianssand. - He was here in even narrower social surroundings than at Skien. His - birthplace numbered some 3000 inhabitants, Grimstad about 800. That - he was contented with his lot cannot be supposed; and the short, - dark, taciturn youth seems to have made an unsympathetic and rather - uncanny impression upon the burghers of the little township. His - popularity was not heightened by a talent which he presently - developed for drawing caricatures and writing personal lampoons. He - found, however, two admiring friends in Christopher Lorentz Due, a - custom-house clerk, and a law student named Olë Schulerud. - - The first political event which aroused his interest and stirred him - to literary expression was the French Revolution of 1848. He himself - writes:[3] “The times were much disturbed. The February revolution, - the rising in Hungary and elsewhere, the Slesvig War—all this had a - strong and ripening effect on my development, immature though it - remained both then and long afterwards. I wrote clangorous poems of - encouragement to the Magyars, adjuring them, for the sake of freedom - and humanity, not to falter in their righteous war against ‘the - tyrants’; and I composed a long series of sonnets to King Oscar, - mainly, so far as I remember, urging him to set aside all petty - considerations, and march without delay, at the head of his army, to - the assistance of our Danish brothers on the Slesvig frontier.” - These effusions remained in manuscript, and have, for the most part, - perished. About the same time he was reading for his matriculation - examination at Christiania University, where he proposed to study - medicine; and it happened that the Latin books prescribed were - Sallust’s _Catiline_ and Cicero’s Catilinarian Orations. “I devoured - these documents,” says Ibsen, “and a few months later my drama - [_Catilina_] was finished.” His friend Schulerud took it to - Christiania, to offer it to the theatre and to the publishers. By - both it was declined. Schulerud, however, had it printed at his own - expense; and soon after its appearance, in the early spring of 1850, - Ibsen himself came to Christiania.[4] - - For the most part written in blank verse, _Catilina_ towards the - close breaks into rhyming trochaic lines of thirteen and fifteen - syllables. It is an extremely youthful production, very interesting - from the biographical point of view, but of small substantive merit. - What is chiefly notable in it, perhaps, is the fact that it already - shows Ibsen occupied with the theme which was to run through so many - of his works—the contrast between two types of womanhood, one strong - and resolute, even to criminality, the other comparatively weak, - clinging, and “feminine” in the conventional sense of the word. - - In Christiania Ibsen shared Schulerud’s lodgings, and his poverty. - There is a significant sentence in his preface to the re-written - _Catilina_, in which he tells how the bulk of the first edition was - sold as waste paper, and adds: “In the days immediately following we - lacked none of the first necessities of life.” He went to a - “student-factory,” or, as we should say, a “crammer’s,” managed by - one Heltberg; and there he fell in with several of the leading - spirits of his generation—notably with Björnson, A. O. Vinje, and - Jonas Lie. In the early summer of 1850 he wrote a one-act play, - _Kiæmpehöien_ (_The Warrior’s Barrow_), entirely in the sentimental - and somewhat verbose manner of the Danish poet Oehlenschläger. It - was accepted by the Christiania Theatre, and performed three times, - but cannot have put much money in the poet’s purse. With Paul - Botten-Hansen and A. O. Vinje he co-operated in the production of a - weekly satirical paper, at first entitled _Manden_ (_The Man_), but - afterwards _Andhrimner_, after the cook of the gods in Valhalla. To - this journal, which lasted only from January to September 1851, he - contributed, among other things, a satirical “music-tragedy,” - entitled _Norma, or a Politician’s Love_. As the circulation of the - paper is said to have been something under a hundred, it cannot have - paid its contributors very lavishly. About this time, too, he - narrowly escaped arrest on account of some political agitation, in - which, however, he had not been very deeply concerned. - - Meanwhile a movement had been going forward in the capital of - Western Norway, Bergen, which was to have a determining influence on - Ibsen’s destinies. - - Up to 1850 there had been practically no Norwegian drama. The two - great poets of the first half of the century, Wergeland and - Welhaven, had nothing dramatic in their composition, though - Wergeland more than once essayed the dramatic form. Danish actors - and Danish plays held entire possession of the Christiania Theatre; - and, though amateur performances were not uncommon in provincial - towns, it was generally held that the Norwegians, as a nation, were - devoid of all talent for acting. The very sound of Norwegian (as - distinct from Danish) was held by Norwegians themselves to be - ridiculous on the stage. Fortunately Olë Bull, the great violinist, - was not of that opinion. With the insight of genius, he saw that the - time had come for the development of a national drama; he set forth - this view in a masterly argument addressed to the Storthing; and he - gave practical effect to it by establishing, at his own risk, a - Norwegian Theatre in Bergen. How rightly he had judged the situation - may be estimated from the fact that among the raw lads who first - presented themselves for employment was Johannes Brun, afterwards - one of the greatest of comedians; while the first “theatre-poet” - engaged by the management was none other than Henrik Ibsen. - - The theatre was opened on January 2, 1850; Ibsen entered upon his - duties (at a salary of less than £70 a year) in November 1851.[5] - - Incredibly, pathetically small, according to our ideas, were the - material resources of Bull’s gallant enterprise. The town of Bergen - numbered only 25,000 inhabitants. Performances were given only - twice, or, at the outside, three times, a week; and the highest - price of admission was two shillings. What can have been attempted - in the way of scenery and costumes it is hard to imagine. Of a - three-act play, produced in 1852, we read that “the mounting, which - cost £22 10s., left nothing to be desired.” - - Ibsen’s connection with the Bergen Theatre lasted from November 6, - 1851, until the summer of 1857—that is to say, from his - twenty-fourth to his thirtieth year. He was engaged in the first - instance “to assist the theatre as dramatic author,” but in the - following year he received from the management a “travelling - stipend” of £45 to enable him to study the art of theatrical - production in Denmark and Germany, with the stipulation that, on his - return, he should undertake the duties of “scene instructor”—that is - to say, stage-manager or producer. In this function he seems to have - been—as, indeed, he always was—extremely conscientious. A book - exists in the Bergen Public Library containing (it is said) careful - designs by him for every scene in the plays he produced, and full - notes as to entrances, exits, groupings, costumes, accessories, &c. - But he was not an animating or inspiring producer. He had none of - the histrionic vividness of his successor in the post, Björnstjerne - Björnson, who, like all great producers, could not only tell the - actors what to do, but show them how to do it. Perhaps it was a - sense of his lack of impulse that induced the management to give him - a colleague, one Herman Låding, with whom his relations were none of - the happiest. Ibsen is even said, on one occasion, to have - challenged Låding to a duel. - - One of the duties of the “theatre-poet” was to have a new play ready - for each recurrence of the “Foundation Day” of the theatre, January - 2. On that date, in 1853, Ibsen produced a romantic comedy, _St. - John’s Night_. This is the only one of his plays that has never been - printed. From the accounts of those who have seen the manuscript, it - would appear to be a strange jumble of fantastic fairy-lore with - modern comedy or melodrama. Perhaps it is not quite fanciful to - regard it as a sort of half-way house between _A Midsummer Night’s - Dream_ and _Peer Gynt_. In one of its scenes there appears to be an - unmistakable foreshadowing of the episode in the Troll-King’s palace - (_Peer Gynt_, Act II., Sc. 6). The play had no success, and was - performed only twice. For the next Foundation Day, January 2, 1854, - Ibsen prepared a revised version of _The Warrior’s Barrow_, already - produced in Christiania. A year later, January 2, 1855, _Lady Inger - of Östråt_ was produced—a work still immature, indeed, but giving, - for the first time, no uncertain promise of the master dramatist to - come. - - In an autobiographical letter to the Danish critic Peter Hansen, - written from Dresden in 1870, Ibsen says: “_Lady Inger of Östråt_ is - the result of a love-affair—hastily entered into and violently - broken off—to which several of my minor poems may also be - attributed, such as _Wild-flowers and Pot-plants_, _A Bird-Song_, - &c.” The heroine of this love-affair can now be identified as a lady - named Henrikke Holst, who seems to have preserved through a long - life the fresh, bright spirit, the overflowing joyousness, which - attracted Ibsen when she was only in her seventeenth year. Their - relation was of the most innocent. It went no further than a few - surreptitious rambles in the romantic surroundings of Bergen, - usually with a somewhat older girl to play propriety, and with a bag - of sugar-plums to fill up pauses in the conversation. The “violent” - ending seems to have come when the young lady’s father discovered - the secret of these excursions, and doubtless placed her under more - careful control. What there was in this episode to suggest, or in - any way influence, _Lady Inger_, I cannot understand. Nevertheless - the identification seems quite certain. The affair had a charming - little sequel. During the days of their love’s young dream, Ibsen - treated the “wild-flower” with a sort of shy and distant chivalry at - which the wood-gods must have smiled. He avoided even touching her - hand, and always addressed her by the “De” (you) of formal - politeness. But when they met again after many years, he a famous - poet and she a middle-aged matron, he instinctively adopted the “Du” - (thou) of affectionate intimacy, and she responded in kind. He asked - her whether she had recognised herself in any of his works, and she - replied: “I really don’t know, unless it be in the parson’s wife in - _Love’s Comedy_, with her eight children and her perpetual - knitting.” “Ibsen protested,” says Herr Paulsen, in whose _Samliv - med Ibsen_ a full account of the episode may be read. It is - interesting to note that the lady did not recognise herself in Eline - Gyldenlöve, any more than we can. - - It must have been less than a year after the production of _Lady - Inger_ that Ibsen made the acquaintance of the lady who was to be - his wife. Susanna Dåe Thoresen was a daughter (by his second - marriage) of Provost[6] Thoresen, of Bergen, whose third wife, - Magdalene Krag, afterwards became an authoress of some celebrity. It - is recorded that Ibsen’s first visit to the Thoresen household took - place on January 7, 1856,[7] and that on that occasion, speaking to - Susanna Thoresen, he was suddenly moved to say to her: “You are now - Elina, but in time you will become Lady Inger.” Twenty years later, - at Christmas 1876, he gave his wife a copy of the German translation - of _Lady Inger_, with the following inscription on the fly-leaf: - - “This book is by right indefeasible thine, - Who in spirit art born of the Östråt line.” - - In _Lady Inger_ Ibsen has chosen a theme from the very darkest hour - of Norwegian history. King Sverre’s democratic monarchy, dating from - the beginning of the thirteenth century, had paralysed the old - Norwegian nobility. One by one the great families died out, their - possessions being concentrated in the hands of the few survivors, - who regarded their wealth as a privilege unhampered by obligations. - At the beginning of the sixteenth century, then, patriotism and - public spirit were almost dead among the nobles, while the monarchy, - before which the old aristocracy had fallen, was itself dead, or - rather merged (since 1380) in the Crown of Denmark. The peasantry, - too, had long ago lost all effective voice in political affairs; so - that Norway lay prone and inert at the mercy of her Danish rulers. - It is at the moment of deepest national degradation that Ibsen has - placed his tragedy; and the degradation was, in fact, even deeper - than he represents it, for the longings for freedom, the stirrings - of revolt, which form the motive-power of the action, are invented, - or at any rate idealised, by the poet. Fru Inger Ottisdatter - Gyldenlöve was, in fact, the greatest personage of her day in - Norway. She was the best-born, the wealthiest, and probably the - ablest woman in the land. At the time when Ibsen wrote, little more - than this seems to have been known of her; so that in making her the - victim of a struggle between patriotic duty and maternal love, he - was perhaps poetising in the absence of positive evidence, rather - than in opposition to it. Subsequent research, unfortunately, has - shown that Fru Inger was but little troubled with patriotic - aspirations. She was a hard and grasping woman, ambitious of social - power and predominance, but inaccessible, or nearly so, to national - feeling. It was from sheer social ambition, and with no qualms of - patriotic conscience, that she married her daughters to Danish - noblemen. True, she lent some support to the insurrection of the - so-called “Dale-junker,” a peasant who gave himself out as the heir - of Sten Sture, a former regent of Sweden; but there is not a tittle - of ground for making this pretender her son. He might, indeed, have - become her son-in-law, for, speculating on his chances of success, - she had betrothed one of her daughters to him. Thus the Fru Inger of - Ibsen’s play is, in her character and circumstances, as much a - creation of the poet’s as though no historic personage of that name - had ever existed. Olaf Skaktavl, Nils Lykke, and Eline Gyldenlöve - are also historic names; but with them, too, Ibsen has dealt with - the utmost freedom. The real Nils Lykke was married in 1528 to the - real Eline Gyldenlöve. She died four years later, leaving him two - children; and thereupon he would fain have married her sister Lucia. - Such a union, however, was regarded as incestuous, and the lovers - failed in their effort to obtain a special dispensation. Lucia then - became her brother-in-law’s mistress, and bore him a son. But the - ecclesiastical law was in those days not to be trifled with; Nils - Lykke was thrown into prison for his crime, condemned, and killed in - his dungeon, in the year of grace 1535. Thus there was a tragedy - ready-made in Ibsen’s material, though it was not the tragedy he - chose to write. - - The Bergen public did not greatly take to _Lady Inger_, and it was - performed, in its novelty, only twice. Nor is the reason far to - seek. The extreme complexity of the intrigue, and the lack of clear - guidance through its mazes, probably left the Bergen audiences no - less puzzled than the London audiences who saw the play at the Scala - Theatre in 1906.[8] It is a play which can be appreciated only by - spectators who know it beforehand. Such audiences it has often found - in Norway, where it was revived at the Christiania Theatre in 1875; - but in Denmark and Germany, though it has been produced several - times, it has never been very successful. We need go no further than - the end of the first act to understand the reason. On an audience - which knows nothing of the play, the sudden appearance of a - “Stranger,” to whose identity it has not the slightest clue, can - produce no effect save one of bewilderment. To rely on such an - incident for what was evidently intended to be a thrilling - “curtain,” was to betray extreme inexperience; and this single trait - is typical of much in the play. Nevertheless _Lady Inger_ marks a - decisive advance in Ibsen’s development. It marks, one may say, the - birth of his power of invention. He did not as yet know how to - restrain or clarify his invention, and he made clumsy use of the - stock devices of a bad school. But he had once for all entered upon - that course of technical training which it took him five-and-twenty - years to complete. He was learning much that he was afterwards to - unlearn; but had he not undergone this apprenticeship, he would - never have been the master he ultimately became. - - When Ibsen entered upon his duties at the Bergen Theatre, the - influence of Eugène Scribe and his imitators was at its very height. - Of the 145 plays produced during his tenure of office, more than - half (seventy-five) were French, twenty-one being by Scribe himself, - and at least half the remainder by adepts of his school, Bayard, - Dumanoir, Mélesville, &c. It is to this school that Ibsen, in _Lady - Inger_, proclaims his adherence; and he did not finally shake off - its influence until he wrote the Third Act of _A Doll’s House_ in - 1879. Although the romantic environment of the play, and the tragic - intensity of the leading character, tend to disguise the - relationship, there can be no doubt that _Lady Inger_ is, in - essence, simply a French drama of intrigue, constructed after the - method of Scribe, as exemplified in _Adrienne Lecouvreur_, _Les - Contes de la Reine de Navarre_,[9] and a dozen other French plays, - with the staging of which the poet was then occupied. It might seem - that the figure of Elina, brooding over the thought of her dead - sister, coffined in the vault below the banqueting-hall, belonged - rather to German romanticism; but there are plenty of traces of - German romanticism even in the French plays with which the good - people of Bergen were regaled. For the suggestion of grave-vaults - and coffined heroines, for example, Ibsen need have gone no further - than Dumas’s _Catherine Howard_, which he produced in March 1853. I - do not, however, pretend that his romantic colouring came to him - from France. It came to him, doubtless, from Germany, by way of - Denmark. My point is that the conduct of the intrigue in _Lady - Inger_ shows the most unmistakable marks of his study of the great - French plot-manipulators. Its dexterity and its artificiality alike - are neither German nor Danish, but French. Ibsen had learnt the - great secret of Scribe—the secret of dramatic movement. The play is - full of those ingenious complications, mistakes of identity, and - rapid turns of fortune by which Scribe enchained the interest of his - audiences. Its central theme—a mother plunging into intrigue and - crime for the advancement of her son, only to find that her son - himself has been her victim—is as old as Greek tragedy. The - secondary story, too—that of Elina’s wild infatuation for the - betrayer and practically the murderer of her sister—could probably - be paralleled in the ballad literature of Scotland, Germany, or - Denmark, and might, indeed, have been told, in verse or prose, by - Sir Walter Scott. But these very un-Parisian elements are handled in - a fundamentally Parisian fashion, and Ibsen is clearly fascinated, - for the time, by the ideal of what was afterwards to be known as the - “well-made play.” The fact that the result is in reality an ill-made - play in no way invalidates this theory. It is perhaps the final - condemnation of the well-made play that in nine cases out of ten—and - even in the hands of far more experienced playwrights than the young - Bergen “theatre-poet”—it is apt to prove ill-made after all. - - Far be it from me, however, to speak in pure disparagement of _Lady - Inger_. With all its defects, it seems to me manifestly the work of - a great poet—the only one of Ibsen’s plays prior to _The Vikings at - Helgeland_ of which this can be said. It may be that early - impressions mislead me; but I still cannot help seeing in Lady Inger - a figure of truly tragic grandeur; in Nils Lykke one of the few - really seductive seducers in literature; and in many passages of the - dialogue, the touch of a master hand. - - W. A. - ------ - -Footnote 1: - - See Introduction to _The Wild Duck_, p. xxiii. - -Footnote 2: - - He continued to dabble in painting until he was thirty, or - thereabouts. - -Footnote 3: - - Preface to the second edition of _Catilina_, 1875. - -Footnote 4: - - This is his own statement of the order of events. According to - Halvdan Koht (_Samlede Værker_, vol. x. p. i) he arrived in - Christiania in March 1850, and _Catilina_ did not appear until - April. - -Footnote 5: - - The history of Ibsen’s connection with the Bergen Theatre is - written at some length in an article by me, entitled “Ibsen’s - Apprenticeship,” published in the _Fortnightly Review_ for January - 1904. From that article I quote freely in the following pages. - -Footnote 6: - - Provost (“Provst”) is an ecclesiastical title, roughly equivalent - to Dean. - -Footnote 7: - - See article by Dr. Julius Elias in _Die neue Rundschau_, December - 1906, p. 1463. Dr. Brahm, in the same magazine (p. 1414), writes - as though this were Ibsen’s first meeting with his wife; and a - note by Halvdan Koht, in the Norwegian edition of Ibsen’s Letters, - seems to bear out this view. But it would appear that what Fru - Ibsen told Dr. Elias was that on the date mentioned Ibsen for “the - first time visited at her father’s house.” The terms of the - anecdote almost compel us to assume that he had previously met her - elsewhere. It seems almost inconceivable that Ibsen, of all - people, should have made such a speech to a lady on their very - first meeting. - -Footnote 8: - - Stage Society performances, January 28 and 29, 1906. Lady Inger - was played by Miss Edyth Olive, Elina by Miss Alice Crawford, Nils - Lykke by Mr. Henry Ainley, Olaf Skaktavl by Mr. Alfred Brydone, - and Nils Stenssön by Mr. Harcourt Williams. - -Footnote 9: - - These two plays were produced, respectively, in March and October - 1854, at the very time when Ibsen must have been planning and - composing _Lady Inger_. - ------ - - - - - THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG - - INTRODUCTION - - - Exactly a year after the production of _Lady Inger of Östråt_—that - is to say on the “Foundation Day” of the Bergen Theatre, January 2, - 1856—_The Feast at Solhoug_ was produced. The poet himself has - written its history in full in the Preface to the second edition - (see p. 183). The only comment that need be made upon his rejoinder - to his critics has been made, with perfect fairness as it seems to - me, by George Brandes in the following passage:[10] “No one who is - unacquainted with the Scandinavian languages can fully understand - the charm that the style and melody of the old ballads exercise upon - the Scandinavian mind. The beautiful ballads and songs of _Des - Knaben Wunderhorn_ have perhaps had a similar power over German - minds; but, as far as I am aware, no German poet has ever succeeded - in inventing a metre suitable for dramatic purposes, which yet - retained the mediæval ballad’s sonorous swing and rich aroma. The - explanation of the powerful impression produced in its day by Henrik - Hertz’s _Svend Dyring’s House_ is to be found in the fact that in - it, for the first time, the problem was solved of how to fashion a - metre akin to that of the heroic ballads, a metre possessing as - great mobility as the verse of the _Niebelungenlied_, along with a - dramatic value not inferior to that of the iambic pentameter. Henrik - Ibsen, it is true, has justly pointed out that, as regards the - mutual relations of the principal characters, _Svend Dyring’s House_ - owes more to Kleist’s _Käthchen von Heilbronn_ than _The Feast at - Solhoug_ owes to _Svend Dyring’s House_. But the fact remains that - the versified parts of the dialogue of both _The Feast at Solhoug_ - and _Olaf Liliekrans_ are written in that imitation of the tone and - style of the heroic ballad, of which Hertz was the happily-inspired - originator. There seems to me to be no depreciation whatever of - Ibsen in the assertion of Hertz’s right to rank as his model. Even - the greatest must have learnt from some one.” - - The question is, to put it in a nutshell: Supposing Hertz had never - adapted the ballad measures to dramatic purposes, would Ibsen have - written _The Feast at Solhoug_, at any rate in its present form? I - think we must answer: Almost certainly, no. - - But while the influence of Danish lyrical romanticism is apparent in - the style of the play, the structure, as it seems to me, shows no - less clearly that influence of the French plot-manipulators which we - found so unmistakably at work in _Lady Inger_. Despite its lyrical - dialogue, _The Feast at Solhoug_ has that crispness of dramatic - action which marks the French plays of the period. It may indeed be - called Scribe’s _Bataille de Dames_ writ tragic. Here, as in the - _Bataille de Dames_ (one of the earliest plays produced under - Ibsen’s supervision), we have the rivalry of an older and a younger - woman for the love of a man who is proscribed on an unjust - accusation, and pursued by the emissaries of the royal power. One - might even, though this would be forcing the point, find an analogy - in the fact that the elder woman (in both plays a strong and - determined character) has in Scribe’s comedy a cowardly suitor, - while in Ibsen’s tragedy, or melodrama, she has a cowardly husband. - In every other respect the plays are as dissimilar as possible; yet - it seems to me far from unlikely that an unconscious reminiscence of - the _Bataille de Dames_ may have contributed to the shaping of _The - Feast at Solhoug_ in Ibsen’s mind. But more significant than any - resemblance of theme is the similarity of Ibsen’s whole method to - that of the French school—the way, for instance, in which - misunderstandings are kept up through a careful avoidance of the use - of proper names, and the way in which a cup of poison, prepared for - one person, comes into the hands of another person, is, as a matter - of fact, drunk by no one, but occasions the acutest agony to the - would-be poisoner. All this ingenious dovetailing of incidents and - working-up of misunderstandings, Ibsen unquestionably learned from - the French. The French language, indeed, is the only one which has a - word—_quiproquo_—to indicate the class of misunderstanding which, - from _Lady Inger_ down to _The League of Youth_, Ibsen employed - without scruple. - - Ibsen’s first visit to the home of his future wife took place five - days after the production of _The Feast at Solhoug_. It seems - doubtful whether this was actually his first meeting with her;[11] - but at any rate we can scarcely suppose that he knew her during the - previous summer, when he was writing his play. It is a curious - coincidence, then, that he should have found in Susanna Thoresen and - her sister Marie very much the same contrast of characters which had - occupied him in his first dramatic effort, _Catilina_, and which had - formed the main subject of the play he had just produced. It is less - wonderful that the same contrast should so often recur in his later - works, even down to _John Gabriel Borkman_. Ibsen was greatly - attached to his gentle and retiring sister-in-law, who died - unmarried in 1874. - - _The Feast at Solhoug_ has been translated by Miss Morison and - myself, only because no one else could be found to undertake the - task. We have done our best; but neither of us lays claim to any - great metrical skill, and the light movement of Ibsen’s verse is - often, if not always, rendered in a sadly halting fashion. It is, - however, impossible to exaggerate the irregularity of the verse in - the original, or its defiance of strict metrical law. The normal - line is one of four accents; but when this is said, it is almost - impossible to arrive at any further generalisation. There is a - certain lilting melody in many passages, and the whole play has not - unfairly been said to possess the charm of a northern summer night, - in which the glimmer of twilight gives place only to the gleam of - morning. But in the main (though much better than its successor, - _Olaf Liliekrans_) it is the weakest thing that Ibsen admitted into - the canon of his works. He wrote of it in 1870 as “a study which I - now disown”; and had he continued in that frame of mind, the world - would scarcely have quarrelled with his judgment. At worst, then, my - collaborator and I cannot be accused of marring a masterpiece; but - for which assurance we should probably have shrunk from the attempt. - - W. A. - ------ - -Footnote 10: - - _Ibsen and Björnson._ London, Heinemann, 1899, p. 88. - -Footnote 11: - - See note, p. xxv. - ------ - - - - - LOVE'S COMEDY - - INTRODUCTION - - - _Kærlighedens Komedie_ was published at Christiania in 1862. The - polite world—so far as such a thing existed at that time in the - Northern capital—received it with an outburst of indignation not now - entirely easy to understand. It has indeed faults enough. The - character-drawing is often crude, the action, though full of - effective by-play, extremely slight, and the sensational climax has - little relation to human nature as exhibited in Norway, or out of - it, at that or any other time. But the sting lay in the unflattering - veracity of the piece as a whole; in the merciless portrayal of the - trivialities of persons, or classes, high in their own esteem; in - the unexampled effrontery of bringing a clergyman upon the stage. - All these have long since passed in Scandinavia, into the category - of the things which people take with their Ibsen as a matter of - course, and the play is welcomed with delight by every Scandinavian - audience. But in 1862 the matter was serious, and Ibsen meant it to - be so. - - For they were years of ferment—those six or seven which intervened - between his return to Christiania from Bergen in 1857, and his - departure for Italy in 1864. As director of the newly founded - “Norwegian Theatre,” Ibsen was a prominent member of the little knot - of brilliant young writers who led the nationalist revolt against - Danish literary tradition, then still dominant in well-to-do, and - especially in official, Christiania. Well-to-do and official - Christiania met the revolt with contempt. Under such conditions, the - specific literary battle of the Norwegian with the Dane easily - developed into the eternal warfare of youthful idealism with - “respectability” and convention. Ibsen had already started work upon - the greatest of his Norse Histories—_The Pretenders_. But history - was for him little more than material for the illustration of modern - problems; and he turned with zest from the task of breathing his own - spirit into the stubborn mould of the thirteenth century, to hold up - the satiric mirror to the suburban drawing-rooms of Christiania, and - to the varied phenomena current there,—and in suburban drawing-rooms - elsewhere,—under the name of Love. - - Yet _Love’s Comedy_ is much more than a satire, and its exuberant - humour has a bitter core; the laughter that rings through it is the - harsh, implacable laughter of Carlyle. His criticism of commonplace - love-making is at first sight harmless and ordinary enough. The - ceremonial formalities of the continental _Verlobung_, the shrill - raptures of aunts and cousins over the engaged pair, the satisfied - smile of enterprising materfamilias as she reckons up the tale of - daughters or of nieces safely married off under her auspices; or, - again, the embarrassments incident to a prolonged _Brautstand_ - following a hasty wooing, the deadly effect of familiarity upon a - shallow affection, and the anxious efforts to save the appearance of - romance when its zest has departed—all these things had yielded such - “comedy” as they possess to many others before Ibsen, and an Ibsen - was not needed to evoke it. But if we ask what, then, is the right - way from which these “comic” personages in their several fashions - diverge; what is the condition which will secure courtship from - ridicule, and marriage from disillusion, Ibsen abruptly parts - company with all his predecessors. “‘Of course,’ reply the rest in - chorus, ‘a deep and sincere love’;—‘together,’ add some, 'with - prudent good sense.'” The prudent good sense Ibsen allows; but he - couples with it the startling paradox that the first condition of a - happy marriage is the absence of love, and the first condition of an - enduring love the absence of marriage. - - The student of the latter-day Ibsen is naturally somewhat taken - aback to find the grim poet of Doubt, whose task it seems to be to - apply a corrosive criticism to modern institutions in general and to - marriage in particular, gravely defending the “marriage of - convenience.” And his amazement is not diminished by the sense that - the author of this plea for the loveless marriage, which poets have - at all times scorned and derided, was himself beyond question a - poet, ardent, brilliant, and young, and himself, what is more, quite - recently and beyond question happily, married. The truth is that - there are two men—in Ibsen an idealist, exalted to the verge of - sentimentality, and a critic, hard, inexorable, remorseless, to the - verge of cynicism. What we call his “social philosophy” is a _modus - vivendi_ arrived at between them. Both agree in repudiating - “marriage for love”; but the idealist repudiates it in the name of - love, the critic in the name of marriage. Love, for the idealist - Ibsen, is a passion which loses its virtue when it reaches its goal, - which inspires only while it aspires, and flags bewildered when it - attains. Marriage, for the critic Ibsen, is an institution beset - with pitfalls into which those are surest to step who enter in - blinded with love. In the latter dramas the tragedy of married life - is commonly generated by other forms of blindness—the childish - innocence of Nora, the maidenly ignorance of Helena Alving, neither - of whom married precisely “for love”; here it is blind Love alone - who, to the jealous eye of the critic, plays the part of the Serpent - in the Edens of wedded bliss. There is, it is clear, an element of - unsolved contradiction in Ibsen’s thought;—Love is at once so - precious and so deadly, a possession so glorious that all other - things in life are of less worth, and yet capable of producing only - disastrously illusive effects upon those who have entered into the - relations to which it prompts. But with Ibsen—and it is a grave - intellectual defect—there is an absolute antagonism between spirit - and form. An institution is always, with him, a shackle for the free - life of souls, not an organ through which they attain expression; - and since the institution of marriage cannot but be, there remains - as the only logical solution that which he enjoins—to keep the - soul’s life out of it. To “those about to marry,” Ibsen therefore - says in effect, “Be sure you are not in love!” And to those who are - in love he says, “Part!” - - It is easy to understand the irony with which a man who thought thus - of love contemplated the business of “love-making,” and the - ceremonial discipline of Continental courtship. The whole unnumbered - tribe of wooing and plighted lovers were for him unconscious actors - in a world-comedy of Love’s contriving—naïve fools of fancy, - passionately weaving the cords that are to strangle passion. Comedy - like this cannot be altogether gay; and as each fresh romance decays - into routine, and each aspiring passion goes out under the spell of - a vulgar environment, or submits to the bitter salvation of a final - parting, the ringing laughter grows harsh and hollow, and notes of - ineffable sadness escape from the poet’s Stoic self-restraint. - - Ibsen had grown up in a school which cultivated the romantic, - piquant, picturesque in style; which ran riot in wit, in vivacious - and brilliant imagery, in resonant rhythms and telling double - rhymes. It must be owned that this was not the happiest school for a - dramatist, nor can _Love’s Comedy_ be regarded, in the matter of - style, as other than a risky experiment which nothing but the sheer - dramatic force of an Ibsen could have carried through. As it is, - there are palpable fluctuations, discrepancies of manner; the - realism of treatment often provokes a realism of style out of - keeping with the lyric afflatus of the verse; and we pass with - little warning from the barest colloquial prose to strains of - high-wrought poetic fancy. Nevertheless, the style, with all its - inequalities, becomes in Ibsen’s hands a singularly plastic medium - of dramatic expression. The marble is too richly veined for ideal - sculpture, but it takes the print of life. The wit, exuberant as it - is, does not coruscate indiscriminately upon all lips; and it has - many shades and varieties—caustic, ironical, imaginative, playful, - passionate—which take their temper from the speaker’s mood. - - The present version of the play retains the metres of the original, - and follows it in general line for line. For a long passage, - occupying substantially the first twenty pages, the translator is - indebted to the editor of the present work; and two other - passages—Falk’s tirades on pp. 58 and 100—result from a fusion of - versions made independently by us both. - - C. H. H. - - LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT - (1855) - - CHARACTERS - - LADY INGER OTTISDAUGHTER RÖMER, _widow of High Steward Nils - Gyldenlöve._ - ELINA GYLDENLÖVE, _her daughter._ - NILS LYKKE, _Danish knight and councillor._ - OLAF SKAKTAVL, _an outlawed Norwegian noble._ - NILS STENSSON. - JENS BIELKE, _Swedish commander._ - BIÖRN, _majordomo at Östråt._ - FINN, _a servant._ - EINAR HUK, _bailiff at Östråt._ - _Servants, peasants, and Swedish men-at-arms._ - - ------- - - _The action takes place at Östråt Manor, on the Trondhiem Fiord, in - the year 1528._ - - [PRONUNCIATION OF NAMES.—Östråt = _Östrot_; Elina (Norwegian, Eline) - = _Eleena_; Stensson = _Staynson_; Biörn = _Byörn_; Jens Bielke = - _Yens Byelke_; Huk = _Hook_. The _g_'s in “Inger” and in - “Gyldenlöve” are, of course, hard. The final _e_'s and the _ö_'s - pronounced much as in German.] - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT | DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS - - ---------- - - - ACT FIRST - - - _A room at Östråt. Through an open door in the back, the - Banquet Hall is seen in faint moonlight, which shines - fitfully through a deep bow-window in the opposite wall. - To the right, an entrance-door; further forward, a - curtained window. On the left, a door leading to the - inner rooms; further forward a large open fireplace, - which casts a glow over the room. It is a stormy - evening._ - - BIÖRN _and_ FINN _are sitting by the fireplace. The latter - is occupied in polishing a helmet. Several pieces of - armour lie near them, along with a sword and shield._ - - FINN. - - [_After a pause._] Who was Knut[12] Alfson? - - BIÖRN. - - My Lady says he was the last of Norway’s knighthood. - - FINN. - - And the Danes killed him at Oslo-fiord? - - BIÖRN. - - If you know not that, ask any child of five. - - FINN. - - So Knut Alfson was the last of our knighthood? And now he’s - dead and gone! [_Holds up the helmet._] Well, thou must e’en - be content to hang scoured and bright in the Banquet Hall; - for what art thou now but an empty nut-shell? The kernel—the - worms have eaten that many a winter agone. - - What say you, Biörn—may not one call Norway’s land an empty - nut-shell, even like the helmet here; bright without, - worm-eaten within? - - BIÖRN. - - Hold your peace, and mind your task!—Is the helmet ready? - - FINN. - - It shines like silver in the moonlight. - - BIÖRN. - - Then put it by.—See here; scrape the rust off the sword. - - FINN. - - [_Turning the sword over and examining it._] - - Is it worth while? - - BIÖRN. - - What mean you? - - FINN. - - The edge is gone. - - BIÖRN. - - What’s that to you? Give it me.—Here, take the shield. - - FINN. - - [_As before._] There is no grip to it! - - BIÖRN. - - [_Mutters._] Let me get a grip on _you_—— - - [FINN _hums to himself for a while._ - - BIÖRN. - - What now? - - FINN. - - An empty helmet, a sword with no edge, a shield with no - grip—so it has all come to that. Who can blame Lady Inger if - she leaves such weapons to hang scoured and polished on the - walls, instead of rusting them in Danish blood? - - BIÖRN. - - Folly! Is there not peace in the land? - - FINN. - - Peace? Ay, when the peasant has shot away his last arrow, - and the wolf has reft the last lamb from the fold, then is - there peace between them. But ’tis a strange friendship. - Well, well; let that pass. ’Tis fitting, as I said, that the - harness hang bright in the hall; for you know the old saw: - “Call none a man but the knightly man.” So now that we have - never a knight in the land, we have never a man; and where - no man is, there must women order things; therefore—— - - BIÖRN. - - Therefore—therefore I bid you hold your foul prate! - [_Rises._ - - The evening wears on. Enough; you may hang the helmet and - armour in the hall again. - - FINN. - - [_In a low voice._] Nay, best let it be till to-morrow. - - BIÖRN. - - What, do you fear the dark? - - FINN. - - Not by day. And if so be I fear it at even, I am not the - only one. Ah, you may look; I tell you in the housefolk’s - room there is talk of many things. [_Lower._] They say that, - night by night, a tall figure, clad in black, walks the - Banquet Hall. - - BIÖRN. - - Old wives’ tales! - - FINN. - - Ah, but they all swear ’tis true. - - BIÖRN. - - That I well believe. - - FINN. - - The strangest of all is that Lady Inger thinks the same—— - - BIÖRN. - - [_Starting._] Lady Inger? What does she think? - - FINN. - - What Lady Inger thinks? I warrant few can tell that. But - sure it is that she has no rest in her. See you not how day - by day she grows thinner and paler? [_Looks keenly at him._] - They say she never sleeps—and that it is because of the - black figure—— - - [_While he is speaking,_ ELINA GYLDENLÖVE _has - appeared in the half-open door on the left. She - stops and listens, unobserved._ - - BIÖRN. - - And you believe such follies? - - FINN. - - Well, half and half. There be folk, too, that read - things another way. But that is pure malice, I’ll be - bound.—Hearken, Biörn—know you the song that is going - round the country? - - BIÖRN. - - A song? - - FINN. - - Ay, ’tis on all folks’ lips. ’Tis a shameful scurril thing, - for sure; yet it goes prettily. Just listen: [_Sings in a - low voice._ - - Dame Inger sitteth in Östråt fair, - She wraps her in costly furs— - She decks her in velvet and ermine and vair, - Red gold are the beads that she twines in her hair— - But small peace in that soul of hers. - - Dame Inger hath sold her to Denmark’s lord. - She bringeth her folk ’neath the stranger’s yoke— - In guerdon whereof— - - [BIÖRN _enraged, seizes him by the throat._ ELINA - GYLDENLÖVE _withdraws without having been seen._ - - BIÖRN. - - I will send you guerdonless to the foul fiend, if you prate - of Lady Inger but one unseemly word more. - - FINN. - - [_Breaking from his grasp._] Why—did _I_ make the song? - - [_The blast of a horn is heard from the right._ - - BIÖRN. - - Hark—what is that? - - FINN. - - A horn. Then there come guests to-night. - - BIÖRN. - - [_At the window._] They are opening the gate. I hear the - clatter of hoofs in the courtyard. It must be a knight. - - FINN. - - A knight? Nay, that can scarce be. - - BIÖRN. - - Why not? - - FINN. - - Did you not say yourself: the last of our knighthood is dead - and gone? - - [_Goes out to the right._ - - BIÖRN. - - The accursed knave, with his prying and peering! What avails - all my striving to hide and hush things? They whisper of her - even now—; soon all men will be shouting aloud that—— - - ELINA. - - [_Comes in again through the door on the left; looks round - her, and says with suppressed emotion:_] Are you alone, - Biörn? - - BIÖRN. - - Is it you, Mistress Elina? - - ELINA. - - Come, Biörn, tell me one of your stories; I know you can - tell others than those that-—- - - BIÖRN. - - A story? Now—so late in the evening——? - - ELINA. - - If you count from the time when it grew dark at Östråt, then - ’tis late indeed. - - BIÖRN. - - What ails you? Has aught crossed you? You seem so restless. - - ELINA. - - May be so. - - BIÖRN. - - There is something amiss. I have hardly known you this half - year past. - - ELINA. - - Bethink you: this half year past my dearest sister Lucia has - been sleeping in the vault below. - - BIÖRN. - - That is not all, Mistress Elina—it is not that alone that - makes you now thoughtful and white and silent, now restless - and ill at ease, as you are to-night. - - ELINA. - - Not that alone, you think? And wherefore not? Was she not - gentle and pure and fair as a summer night? Biörn,—I tell - you, Lucia was dear to me as my life. Have you forgotten how - many a time, when we were children, we sat on your knee in - the winter evenings? You sang songs to us, and told us - tales—— - - BIÖRN. - - Ay, then you were blithe and gay. - - ELINA. - - Ah, then, Biörn! Then I lived a glorious life in fable-land, - and in my own imaginings. Can it be that the sea-strand was - naked then as now? If it was so, I knew it not. ’Twas there - I loved to go weaving all my fair romances; my heroes came - from afar and sailed again across the sea; I lived in their - midst, and set forth with them when they sailed away. - [_Sinks on a chair._] Now I feel so faint and weary; I can - live no longer in my tales. They are only—tales. [_Rising, - vehemently._] Biörn, know you what has made me sick? A - truth; a hateful, hateful truth, that gnaws me day and - night. - - BIÖRN. - - What mean you? - - ELINA. - - Do you remember how sometimes you would give us good counsel - and wise saws? Sister Lucia followed them; but I—ah, - well-a-day! - - BIÖRN. - - [_Consoling her._] Well, well—-! - - ELINA. - - I know it—I was proud, overweening! In all our games, I - would still be the Queen, because I was the tallest, the - fairest, the wisest! I know it! - - BIÖRN. - - That is true. - - ELINA. - - Once you took me by the hand and looked earnestly at me, and - said: “Be not proud of your fairness, or your wisdom; but be - proud as the mountain eagle as often as you think: I am - Inger Gyldenlöve’s daughter!” - - BIÖRN. - - And was it not matter enough for pride? - - ELINA. - - You told me so often enough, Biörn! Oh, you told me many a - tale in those days. [_Presses his hand._] Thanks for them - all!—Now, tell me one more; it might make me light of heart - again, as of old. - - BIÖRN. - - You are a child no longer. - - ELINA. - - Nay, indeed! But let me dream that I am.—Come, tell on! - - [_Throws herself into a chair._ BIÖRN _sits on the - edge of the high hearth._ - - BIÖRN. - - Once upon a time there was a high-born knight—— - - ELINA. - - [_Who has been listening restlessly in the direction of the - hall, seizes his arm and breaks out in a vehement whisper._] - Hush! No need to shout so loud; I can hear well! - - BIÖRN. - - [_More softly._] Once upon a time there was a high-born - knight, of whom there went the strange report—— - - [ELINA _half rises, and listens in anxious suspense - in the direction of the hall._ - - BIÖRN. - - Mistress Elina,—what ails you? - - ELINA. - - [_Sits down again._] Me? Nothing. Go on. - - BIÖRN. - - Well, as I was saying—did this knight but look straight in a - woman’s eyes, never could she forget it after; her thoughts - must follow him wherever he went, and she must waste away - with sorrow. - - ELINA. - - I have heard that tale.—Moreover, ’tis no tale you are - telling, for the knight you speak of is Nils Lykke, who sits - even now in the Council of Denmark—— - - BIÖRN. - - May be so. - - ELINA. - - Well, let it pass—go on! - - BIÖRN. - - Now it happened once on a time—— - - ELINA. - - [_Rises suddenly._] Hush; be still! - - BIÖRN. - - What now? What is the matter? - - ELINA. - - [_Listening._] Do you hear? - - BIÖRN. - - What? - - ELINA. - - It is there! Yes, by the cross of Christ, it _is_ there! - - BIÖRN. - - [_Rises._] _What_ is there? Where? - - ELINA. - - She herself—in the hall—— - - [_Goes hastily towards the hall._ - - BIÖRN. - - [_Following._] How can you think—? Mistress Elina,—go to - your chamber! - - ELINA. - - Hush; stand still! Do not move; do not let her see you! - Wait—the moon is coming out. Can you not see the black-robed - figure——? - - BIÖRN. - - By all the saints——! - - ELINA. - - Do you see—she turns Knut Alfson’s picture to the wall. - Ha-ha; be sure it looks her too straight in the eyes! - - BIÖRN. - - Mistress Elina, hear me! - - ELINA. - - [_Going back towards the fireplace._] Now I know what I - know! - - BIÖRN. - - [_To himself._] Then it is true! - - ELINA. - - Who was it, Biörn? Who was it? - - BIÖRN. - - You saw as plainly as I. - - ELINA. - - Well? Whom did I see? - - BIÖRN. - - You saw your mother. - - ELINA. - - [_Half to herself._] Night after night I have heard her - steps in there. I have heard her whispering and moaning like - a soul in pain. And what says the song—? Ah, now I know! Now - I know that—— - - BIÖRN. - - Hush! - - [LADY INGER GYLDENLÖVE _enters rapidly from the - hall, without noticing the others; she goes to - the window, draws the curtain, and gazes out as - if watching for some one on the high road; after - a while, she turns and goes slowly back into the - hall._ - - ELINA. - - [_Softly, following her with her eyes._] White, white as the - dead——! - - [_An uproar of many voices is heard outside the door - on the right._ - - BIÖRN. - - What can this be? - - ELINA. - - Go out and see what is amiss. - - [EINAR HUK, _the bailiff, appears in the anteroom, - with a crowd of_ RETAINERS _and_ PEASANTS. - - EINAR HUK. - - [_In the doorway._] Straight in to her! And be not abashed! - - BIÖRN. - - What seek you? - - EINAR HUK. - - Lady Inger herself. - - BIÖRN. - - Lady Inger? So late? - - EINAR HUK. - - Late, but time enough, I wot. - - THE PEASANTS. - - Yes, yes; she must hear us now! - - [_The whole rabble crowds into the room. At the same - moment_ LADY INGER _appears in the doorway of - the hall. A sudden silence._ - - LADY INGER. - - What would you with me? - - EINAR HUK. - - We sought you, noble lady, to—— - - LADY INGER. - - Well—say on! - - EINAR HUK. - - Why, we are not ashamed of our errand. In one word—we come - to pray you for weapons and leave—— - - LADY INGER. - - Weapons and leave—? And for what? - - EINAR HUK. - - There has come a rumour from Sweden that the people of the - Dales have risen against King Gustav—— - - LADY INGER. - - The people of the Dales? - - EINAR HUK. - - Ay, so the tidings run, and they seem sure enough. - - LADY INGER. - - Well—if it were so—what have you to do with, the Dale-folk’s - rising? - - THE PEASANTS. - - We will join them! We will help. We will free ourselves! - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] Can the time be come? - - EINAR HUK. - - From all our borderlands the peasants are pouring across to - the Dales. Even outlaws that have wandered for years in the - mountains are venturing down to the homesteads again, and - drawing men together, and whetting their rusty swords. - - LADY INGER. - - [_After a pause._] Tell me, men—have you thought well of - this? Have you counted the cost, if King Gustav’s men should - win? - - BIÖRN. - - [_Softly and imploringly to_ LADY INGER.] Count the cost to - the Danes if King Gustav’s men should lose. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Evasively._] That reckoning is not for me - - to make. [_Turns to the people._ - - You know that King Gustav is sure of help from Denmark. King - Frederick is his friend, and will never leave him in the - lurch—-—- - - EINAR HUK. - - But if the people were now to rise all over Norway’s - land?—if we all rose as one man, nobles and peasants - together?—Ay, Lady Inger Gyldenlöve, the time we have waited - for is surely come. We have but to rise now to drive the - strangers from the land. - - THE PEASANTS. - - Ay, out with the Danish sheriffs! Out with the foreign - masters! Out with the Councillors’ lackeys! - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] Ah, there is metal in them; and yet, yet——! - - BIÖRN. - - [_To himself._] She is of two minds. [_To Elina._] What say - you now, Mistress Elina—have you not sinned in misjudging - your mother? - - ELINA. - - Biörn—if my eyes have lied to me, I could tear them out of - my head! - - EINAR HUK. - - See you not, my noble lady, King Gustav must be dealt with - first. Were _his_ power once gone, the Danes cannot long - hold this land—— - - LADY INGER. - - And then? - - EINAR HUK. - - Then we shall be free. We shall have no more foreign - masters, and can choose ourselves a king, as the Swedes have - done before us. - - LADY INGER. - - [_With animation._] A king for ourselves! Are you thinking - of the Sture[13] stock? - - EINAR HUK. - - King Christiern and others after him have swept bare our - ancient houses. The best of our nobles are outlaws on the - mountain paths, if so be they still live. Nevertheless, it - might still be possible to find one or other shoot of the - old stems—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_Hastily._] Enough, Einar Huk, enough! [_To herself._] Ah, - my dearest hope! - - [_Turns to the_ PEASANTS _and_ RETAINERS. - - I have warned you, now, as well as I can. I have told you - how great is the risk you run. But if you are fixed in your - purpose, ’twere folly in me to forbid what I have no power - to prevent. - - EINAR HUK. - - Then we have your leave to——? - - LADY INGER. - - You have your own firm will; take counsel with _that_. If it - be as you say, that you are daily harassed and oppressed——I - know but little of these matters. I will not know more! What - can I, a lonely woman—? Even if you were to plunder the - Banquet Hall—and there’s many a good weapon on the walls—you - are the masters at Östråt to-night. You must do as seems - good to you. Good-night! - - [_Loud cries of joy from the multitude. Candles are - lighted; the_ RETAINERS _bring out weapons of - different kinds from the hall._ - - BIÖRN. - - [_Seizes_ LADY INGER’S _hand as she is going._] Thanks, my - noble and high-souled mistress! I, that have known you from - childhood up—I have never doubted you. - - LADY INGER. - - Hush, Biörn—’tis a dangerous game I have ventured this - night. The others stake only their lives; but I, trust me, a - thousandfold more! - - BIÖRN. - - How mean you? Do you fear for your power and your favour - with——? - - LADY INGER. - - My power? O God in Heaven! - - A RETAINER. - - [_Comes from the hall with a large sword._] - - See, here’s a real good wolf’s-tooth! With this will I flay - the blood-suckers’ lackeys! - - EINAR HUK. - - [_To another._] What is that you have found? - - THE RETAINER. - - The breastplate they call Herlof Hyttefad’s. - - EINAR HUK. - - ’Tis too good for such as you. Look, here is the shaft of - Sten Sture’s[14] lance; hang the breastplate upon it, and we - shall have the noblest standard heart can desire. - - FINN. - - [_Comes from the door on the left, with a letter in his - hand, and goes towards_ LADY INGER.] I have sought you - through all the house—— - - LADY INGER. - - What would you? - - FINN. - - [_Hands her the letter._] A messenger is come from - Trondhiem[15] with a letter for you. - - LADY INGER. - - Let me see! [_Opening the letter._] From Trondhiem? What can - it be? [_Runs through the letter._] O God! From him! and - here in Norway—— - - [_Reads on with strong emotion, while the men go on - bringing out arms from the hall._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] He is coming here. He is coming here - to-night!—Ay, then ’tis with our wits we must fight, not - with the sword. - - EINAR HUK. - - Enough, enough, good fellows; we are well armed now. Set we - forth now on our way! - - LADY INGER. - - [_With a sudden change of tone._] No man shall leave my - house to-night! - - EINAR HUK. - - But the wind is fair, noble lady; ’twill take us quickly up - the fiord, and—— - - LADY INGER. - - It shall be as I have said. - - EINAR HUK. - - Are we to wait till to-morrow, then? - - LADY INGER. - - Till to-morrow, and longer still. No armed man shall go - forth from Östråt yet awhile. - - [_Signs of displeasure among the crowd._ - - SOME OF THE PEASANTS. - - We will go all the same, Lady Inger! - - THE CRY SPREADS. - - Ay, ay; we _will_ go! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Advancing a step towards them._] Who dares to move? - - [_A silence. After a moment’s pause, she adds:_ - - I have thought for you. What do you common folk know of the - country’s needs? How dare you judge of such things? You must - e’en bear your oppressions and burdens yet awhile. Why - murmur at that, when you see that we, your leaders, are as - ill bested as you?——Take all the weapons back to the hall. - You shall know my further will hereafter. Go! - - [_The_ RETAINERS _take back the arms, and the whole - crowd then withdraws by the door on the right._ - - ELINA. - - [_Softly to_ BIÖRN.] Say you still that I have sinned in - misjudging—the Lady of Östråt? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Beckons to_ BIÖRN, _and says_.] Have a guest-chamber - ready. - - BIÖRN. - - It is well, Lady Inger! - - LADY INGER. - - And let the gate be open to whoever shall knock. - - BIÖRN. - - But——? - - LADY INGER. - - The gate open! - - BIÖRN. - - The gate open. [_Goes out to the right._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ ELINA, _who has already reached the door on the - left._] Stay here!——Elina—my child—I have something to say - to you alone. - - ELINA. - - I hear you. - - LADY INGER. - - Elina——you think evil of your mother. - - ELINA. - - I think, to my sorrow, what your deeds have forced me to - think. - - LADY INGER. - - And you answer as your bitter spirit bids you. - - ELINA. - - Who has filled my spirit with bitterness? From my childhood - I had been wont to look up to you as a great and high-souled - woman. ’Twas in your likeness that I pictured the women of - the chronicles and the Book of Heroes. I thought the Lord - God himself had set his seal on your brow, and marked you - out as the leader of the helpless and the oppressed. Knights - and nobles sang your praise in the feast-hall; and even the - peasants, far and near, called you the country’s pillar and - its hope. All thought that through you the good times were - to come again! All thought that through you a new day was to - dawn over the land! The night is still here; and I scarce - know if through you I dare look for any morning. - - LADY INGER. - - ’Tis easy to see whence you have learnt such venomous words. - You have let yourself give ear to what the thoughtless - rabble mutters and murmurs about things it can little judge - of. - - ELINA. - - “Truth is in the people’s mouth,” was your word when they - praised you in speech and song. - - LADY INGER. - - May be so. But if indeed I chose to sit here idle, though it - was my part to act—think you not that such a choice were - burden enough for me, without your adding to its weight? - - ELINA. - - The weight I add to your burden crushes me no less than you. - Lightly and freely I drew the breath of life, so long as I - had you to believe in. For my pride is my life; and well - might I have been proud, had you remained what once you - were. - - LADY INGER. - - And what proves to you that I have not? Elina—how know you - so surely that you are not doing your mother wrong? - - ELINA. - - [_Vehemently._] Oh, that I were! - - LADY INGER. - - Peace! You have no right to call your mother to - account.—With a single word I could——; but ’twould be an ill - word for you to hear; you must await what time shall bring; - may be that—— - - ELINA. - - [_Turns to go._] Sleep well, my mother! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Hesitates._] Nay—stay with me; I have still somewhat—— - Come nearer;—you must hear me, Elina! - - [_Sits down by the table in front of the window._ - - ELINA. - - I hear you. - - LADY INGER. - - For as silent as you are, I know well that you often long to - be gone from here. Östråt is too lonely and lifeless for - you. - - ELINA. - - Do you wonder at that, my mother? - - LADY INGER. - - It rests with you whether all this shall henceforth be - changed. - - ELINA. - - How so? - - LADY INGER. - - Listen.—I look for a guest to-night. - - ELINA. - - [_Comes nearer._] A guest? - - LADY INGER. - - A guest, who must remain a stranger to all. None must know - whence he comes or whither he goes. - - ELINA. - - [_Throws herself, with a cry of joy, at her mother’s feet, - and seizes her hands._] My mother! My mother! Forgive me, if - you can, all the wrong I have done you! - - LADY INGER. - - What do you mean? Elina, I do not understand you. - - ELINA. - - Then they were all deceived! You are still true at heart! - - LADY INGER. - - Rise, rise and tell me—— - - ELINA. - - Think you I do not know who the stranger is? - - LADY INGER. - - You know? And yet——? - - ELINA. - - Think you the gates of Östråt shut so close, that never a - whisper of the country’s woe can slip through them? Think - you I do not know that the heir of many a noble line wanders - outlawed, without rest or shelter, while Danish masters lord - it in the home of his fathers? - - LADY INGER. - - And what then? - - ELINA. - - I know well that many a high-born knight is hunted through - the woods like a hungry wolf. No hearth has he to rest by, - no bread to eat—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_Coldly._] Enough! Now I understand you. - - ELINA. - - [_Continuing._] And that is why the gates of Östråt must - stand open by night! That is why he must remain a stranger - to all, this guest of whom none must know whence he comes or - whither he goes! You are setting at naught the harsh decree - that forbids you to harbour or succour the outlaw—— - - LADY INGER. - - Enough, I say! - - [_After a short silence, adds with an effort:_ You mistake, - Elina—’tis no outlaw I look for. - - ELINA. - - [_Rises._] Then I have understood you ill indeed. - - LADY INGER. - - Listen to me, my child; but think as you listen; if indeed - you can tame that wild spirit of yours. - - ELINA. - - I am tame, till you have spoken. - - LADY INGER. - - Attend, then, to what I have to tell you.—I have sought, so - far as lay in my power, to keep you in ignorance of all our - griefs and miseries. What could it avail to fill your young - heart with wrath and care? ’Tis not women’s weeping and - wailing that can deliver us; we need the courage and - strength of men. - - ELINA. - - Who has told you that, when courage and strength are needed, - I shall be found wanting? - - LADY INGER. - - Hush, child;—I might take you at your word. - - ELINA. - - How mean you, my mother? - - LADY INGER. - - I might call on you for both; I might——; but let me say my - say out first. - - Know then that the time seems now to be drawing nigh, - towards which the Danish Council have been working for many - a year—the time, I mean, for them to strike the last blow at - our rights and our freedom. Therefore must we now—— - - ELINA. - - [_Eagerly._] Openly rebel, my mother? - - LADY INGER. - - No; we must gain breathing-time. The Council is now - assembled at Copenhagen, considering how best to go to work. - Most of them hold, ’tis said, that there can be no end to - dissensions till Norway and Denmark are one; for should we - still possess our rights as a free land when the time comes - to choose the next king, ’tis most like that the feud will - break out openly. Now the Danish councillors would hinder - this—— - - ELINA. - - Ay, they would hinder it—! But are we to endure such things? - Are we to look on quietly while——? - - LADY INGER. - - No, we will not endure it. But to take up arms—to declare - open war—what would come of that, so long as we are not - united? And were we ever less united in this land than we - are even now?—No, if aught is to be accomplished, it must be - secretly and in silence. Even as I said, we must have time - to draw breath. In the South, a good part of the nobles are - for the Dane; but here in the North they are still in doubt. - Therefore has King Frederick sent hither one of his most - trusted councillors, to assure himself with his own eyes how - we stand affected. - - ELINA. - - [_In suspense._] Well—and then——? - - LADY INGER. - - He is the guest I look for to-night. - - ELINA. - - He comes hither? And to-night? - - LADY INGER. - - A trading ship brought him to Trondhiem yesterday. News has - just reached me of his approach; he may be here within the - hour. - - ELINA. - - And you do not bethink you, my mother, how ’twill endanger - your fame thus to receive the Danish envoy? Do not the - people already look on you with distrustful eyes? How can - you hope that, when the time comes, they will let you rule - and guide them, if it be known that—— - - LADY INGER. - - Fear not. All this I have fully weighed; but there is no - danger. His errand in Norway is a secret; he has come - unknown to Trondhiem, and unknown shall he be our guest at - Östråt. - - ELINA. - - And the name of this Danish lord——? - - LADY INGER. - - It sounds well, Elina; Denmark has scarce a nobler name. - - ELINA. - - But what then do you purpose? I cannot yet grasp your - meaning. - - LADY INGER. - - You will soon understand.—Since we cannot trample on the - serpent, we must bind it. - - ELINA. - - Take heed that it burst not your bonds. - - LADY INGER. - - It rests with you to tighten them as you will. - - ELINA. - - With me? - - LADY INGER. - - I have long seen that Östråt is as a cage to you. The young - falcon chafes behind the iron bars. - - ELINA. - - My wings are clipped. Even if you set me free—’twould avail - me little. - - LADY INGER. - - Your wings are not clipped, save by your own will. - - ELINA. - - Will? My will is in your hands. Be what you once were, and I - too—— - - LADY INGER. - - Enough, enough. Hear me further.—It would scarce break your - heart to leave Östråt? - - ELINA. - - Maybe not, my mother! - - LADY INGER. - - You told me once, that you lived your happiest life in your - tales and histories. What if that life were to be yours once - more? - - ELINA. - - What mean you? - - LADY INGER. - - Elina—if a mighty noble were to come and lead you to his - castle, where you should find damsels and squires, silken - robes and lofty halls awaiting you? - - ELINA. - - A noble, you say? - - LADY INGER. - - A noble. - - ELINA. - - [_More softly._] And the Danish envoy comes hither to-night? - - LADY INGER. - - To-night. - - ELINA. - - If so be, then I fear to read the meaning of your words. - - LADY INGER. - - There is naught to fear if you misread them not. It is far - from my thought to put force upon you. You shall choose for - yourself in this matter, and follow your own rede. - - ELINA. - - [_Comes a step nearer._] Know you the tale of the mother who - drove across the hills by night, with her little children in - the sledge? The wolves were on her track; ’twas life or - death with her;—and one by one she cast out her little ones, - to win time and save herself. - - LADY INGER. - - Nursery tales! A mother would tear the heart from her - breast, before she would cast her child to the wolves! - - ELINA. - - Were I not my mother’s daughter, I would say you were right. - But you are like that mother; one by one have you cast out - your daughters to the wolves. The eldest went first. Five - years ago Merete[16] went forth from Östråt; now she dwells - in Bergen, and is Vinzents Lunge’s[17] wife. But think you - she is happy as the Danish noble’s lady? Vinzents Lunge is - mighty, well-nigh as a king; Merete has damsels and squires, - silken robes and lofty halls; but the day has no sunshine - for her, and the night no rest; for she has never loved him. - He came hither and he wooed her, for she was the greatest - heiress in Norway, and ’twas then needful for him to gain a - footing in the land. I know it; I know it well! Merete bowed - to your will; she went with the stranger lord.—But what has - it cost her? More tears than a mother should wish to answer - for at the day of reckoning! - - LADY INGER. - - I know my reckoning, and I fear it not. - - ELINA. - - Your reckoning ends not here. Where is Lucia, your second - child? - - LADY INGER. - - Ask God, who took her. - - ELINA. - - ’Tis you I ask; ’tis you must answer for her young life. She - was glad as a bird in spring when she sailed from Östråt to - be Merete’s guest. A year passed, and she stood in this room - once more; but her cheeks were white, and death had gnawed - deep into her breast. Ah, I startle you, my mother! You - thought the ugly secret was buried with her;—but she told me - all. A courtly knight had won her heart. He would have - wedded her. You knew that her honour was at stake; yet your - will never bent—and your child had to die. You see, I know - all! - - LADY INGER. - - All? Then she told you his name? - - ELINA. - - His name? No; his name she did not tell me. She shrank from - his name as though it stung her;—she never uttered it. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Relieved, to herself._] Ah, then you do _not_ know all—— - - Elina—’tis true that the whole of this matter was well known - to me. But there is one thing it seems you have overlooked. - The lord whom Lucia met in Bergen was a Dane—— - - ELINA. - - That, too, I know. - - LADY INGER. - - And his love was a lie. With guile and soft speeches he had - ensnared her. - - ELINA. - - I know it; but nevertheless she loved him; and had you had a - mother’s heart, your daughter’s honour had been more to you - than all. - - LADY INGER. - - Not more than her happiness. Think you that, with Merete’s - lot before my eyes, I could sacrifice my second child to a - man that loved her not? - - ELINA. - - Cunning words may beguile many, but they beguile not me—— - - Think not I know nothing of all that is passing in our land. - I understand your counsels but too well. I know that in you - the Danish lords have no true friend. It may be that you - hate them; but you fear them too. When you gave Merete to - Vinzents Lunge, the Danes held the mastery on all sides - throughout our land. Three years later, when you forbade - Lucia to wed the man to whom, though he had deceived her, - she had given her life—things were far different then. The - King’s Danish governors had shamefully misused the common - people, and you deemed it not wise to link yourself still - more closely to the foreign tyrants. - - And what have you done to avenge her that was sent so young - to her grave? You have done nothing. Well then, I will act - in your stead; I will avenge all the shame they have brought - upon our people and our house! - - LADY INGER. - - You? What will you do? - - ELINA. - - I will go my way, even as you go yours. What I shall do I - myself know not; but I feel within me the strength to dare - all for our righteous cause. - - LADY INGER. - - Then have you a hard fight before you. I once promised as - you do now—and my hair has grown grey under the burden of - that promise. - - ELINA. - - Good-night! Your guest will soon be here, and at that - meeting I should be one too many. - - It may be there is yet time for you——; well, God strengthen - and guide you on your path! Forget not that the eyes of many - thousands are fixed on you. Think on Merete, weeping late - and early over her wasted life. Think on Lucia, sleeping in - her black coffin. - - And one thing more. Forget not that in the game you play - this night, your stake is your last child. [_Goes out to the - left_. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Looks after her awhile._] My last child? You know not how - true was that word——But the stake is not my child only. God - help me, I am playing to-night for the whole of Norway’s - land. - - Ah—is not that some one riding through the gateway? - [_Listens at the window._ - - No; not yet. Only the wind; it blows cold as the grave—— - - Has God a right to do this?—To make me a woman—and then to - lay on my shoulders a man’s work? - - For I have the welfare of the country in my hands. It is in - my power to make them rise as one man. They look to _me_ for - the signal; and if I give it not now—it may never be given. - - To delay? To sacrifice the many for the sake of one?—Were it - not better if I could——? No, no, no—I _will_ not! I - _cannot_! - - [_Steals a glance towards the Banquet Hall, but - turns away again as if in dread, and whispers:_ - - I can see them in there now. Pale spectres—dead - ancestors—fallen kinsfolk.—Ah, those eyes that pierce me - from every corner! - - [_Makes a gesture of repulsion, and cries:_ - - Sten Sture! Knut Alfson! Olaf Skaktavl! Back—back!—I - _cannot_ do this! - - [_A_ STRANGER, _strongly built, and with grizzled - hair and beard, has entered from the Banquet - Hall. He is dressed in a torn lambskin tunic; - his weapons are rusty._ - - THE STRANGER. - - [_Stops in the doorway, and says in a low voice._] Hail to - you, Inger Gyldenlöve! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Turns with a scream._] Ah, Christ in heaven save me! - - [_Falls back into a chair. The_ STRANGER _stands - gazing at her, motionless, leaning on his - sword._ - ------ - - - - - ACT SECOND - - _The room at Östråt, as in the first Act._ - - LADY INGER GYLDENLÖVE _is seated at the table on the right, - by the window._ OLAF SKAKTAVL _is standing a little way - from her. Their faces show that they have been engaged - in a heated discussion._ - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - For the last time, Inger Gyldenlöve—you are not to be moved - from your purpose? - - LADY INGER. - - I can do nought else. And my counsel to you is: do as I do. - If it be Heaven’s will that Norway perish utterly, perish it - must, for all we may do to save it. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - And think you I can content my heart with that belief? Shall - I sit and look idly on, now that the hour is come? Do you - forget the reckoning I have against them? They have robbed - me of my lands, and parcelled them out among themselves. My - son, my only child, the last of my race, they have - slaughtered like a dog. Myself they have outlawed and hunted - through forest and fell these twenty years.—Once and again - have folk whispered of my death; but this I believe, that - they shall not lay me beneath the sod before I have seen my - vengeance. - - LADY INGER. - - There is there a long life before you. What have you in mind - to do? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Do? How should I know what I will do? It has never been my - part to plot and plan. That is where you must help me. You - have the wit for that. I have but my sword and my two arms. - - LADY INGER. - - Your sword is rusted, Olaf Skaktavl! All the swords in - Norway are rusted. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - That is doubtless why some folk fight only with their - tongues.—Inger Gyldenlöve—great is the change in you. Time - was when the heart of a man beat in your breast. - - LADY INGER. - - Put me not in mind of what _was_. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Tis for that very purpose I am here. You _shall_ hear me, - even if—— - - LADY INGER. - - Be it so then; but be brief; for—I must say it—this is no - place of safety for you. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Östråt is no place of safety for an outlaw? That I have long - known. But you forget that an outlaw is unsafe wheresoever - he may wander. - - LADY INGER. - - Speak then; I will not hinder you. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Tis nigh on thirty years now since first I saw you. It was - at Akershus[18] in the house of Knut Alfson and his wife. - You were little more than a child then; yet were you bold as - the soaring falcon, and wild and headstrong too at times. - Many were the wooers around you. I too held you dear—dear as - no woman before or since. But you cared for nothing, thought - of nothing, save your country’s evil case and its great - need. - - LADY INGER. - - I counted but fifteen summers then—remember that! And was it - not as though a frenzy had seized us all in those days? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Call it what you will; but one thing I know—even the old and - sober men among us thought it written in the counsels of the - Lord on high that you were she who should break our thraldom - and win us all our rights again. And more: you yourself then - thought as we did. - - LADY INGER. - - ’Twas a sinful thought, Olaf Skaktavl. ’Twas my proud heart, - and not the Lord’s call, that spoke in me. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - You _could_ have been the chosen one had you but willed it. - You came of the noblest blood in Norway; power and riches - were soon to be yours; and you had an ear for the cries of - anguish—then! - - Do you remember that afternoon when Henrik Krummedike and - the Danish fleet anchored off Akershus? The captains of the - fleet offered terms of peace, and, trusting to the - safe-conduct, Knut Alfson rowed on board. Three hours later, - we bore him through the castle gate—— - - LADY INGER. - - A corpse; a corpse! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - The best heart in Norway burst, when Krummedike’s hirelings - struck him down. Methinks I still can see the long - procession that passed into the banquet-hall, heavily, two - by two. There he lay on his bier, white as a spring cloud, - with the axe-cleft in his brow. I may safely say that the - boldest men in Norway were gathered there that night. Lady - Margrete stood by her dead husband’s head, and we swore as - one man to venture lands and life to avenge this last - misdeed and all that had gone before.—Inger Gyldenlöve,—who - was it that burst through the circle of men? A maiden—almost - a child—with fire in her eyes and her voice half choked with - tears.—What was it she swore? Shall I repeat your words? - - LADY INGER. - - I swore what the rest of you swore; neither more nor less. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - You remember your oath—and yet you have forgotten it. - - LADY INGER. - - And how did the others keep their promise? I speak not of - you, Olaf Skaktavl, but of your friends, all Norway’s - nobles? Not one of them, in all these years, has had the - courage to be a man; yet they lay it to my charge that I am - a woman. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - I know what you would say. Why have they bent to the yoke, - and not defied the tyrants to the last? ’Tis but too true; - there is base metal enough in our noble houses nowadays. But - had they held together—who knows what then might have been? - And you could have held them together, for before you all - had bowed. - - LADY INGER. - - My answer were easy enough, but ’twould scarce content you. - So let us leave speaking of what cannot be changed. Tell me - rather what has brought you to Östråt. Do you need harbour? - Well, I will try to hide you. If you would have aught else, - speak out; you shall find me ready—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - For twenty years have I been homeless. In the mountains of - Jæmteland my hair has grown grey. My dwelling has been with - wolves and bears.—You see, Lady Inger—_I_ need you not; but - both nobles and people stand in sore need of you. - - LADY INGER. - - The old burden. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay, it sounds but ill in your ears, I know; yet hear it you - must, for all that. In brief, then: I come from Sweden: - troubles are brewing: the Dales are ready to rise. - - LADY INGER. - - I know it. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Peter Kanzler[19] is with us—secretly, you understand. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Starting._] Peter Kanzler? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Tis he that has sent me to Östråt. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Rises._] Peter Kanzler, say you? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - He himself;—but mayhap you no longer know him? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Half to herself._] Only too well!—But tell me, I pray - you,—what message do you bring? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - When the rumour of the rising reached the border mountains, - where I then was, I set off at once into Sweden. ’Twas not - hard to guess that Peter Kanzler had a finger in the game. I - sought him out and offered to stand by him;—he knew me of - old, as you know, and knew that he could trust me; so he has - sent me hither. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Impatiently._] Yes yes,—he sent you hither to——? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_With secrecy._] Lady Inger—a stranger comes to Östråt - to-night. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Surprised._] What? Know you that——? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Assuredly I know it. I know all. ’Twas to meet him that - Peter Kanzler sent me hither. - - LADY INGER. - - To meet him? Impossible, Olaf Skaktavl,—impossible! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Tis as I tell you. If he be not already come, he will - soon—— - - LADY INGER. - - Doubtless, doubtless; but—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Then you knew of his coming? - - LADY INGER. - - Ay, surely. He sent me a message. ’Twas therefore they - opened to you as soon as you knocked. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Listens._] Hush!—some one is riding along the road. [_Goes - to the window._] They are opening the gate. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Looks out._] It is a knight and his attendant. They are - dismounting in the courtyard. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Tis he then. His name? - - LADY INGER. - - You know not his name? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Peter Kanzler refused to tell it me. He would say no more - than that I should find him at Östråt the third evening - after Martinmas—— - - LADY INGER. - - Ay; even to-night. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - He was to bring letters with him; and from them, and from - you, I was to learn who he is. - - LADY INGER. - - Then let me lead you to your chamber. You have need of rest - and refreshment. You shall soon have speech with the - stranger. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Well, be it as you will. - - [_Both go out to the left._ - - [_After a short pause_, FINN _enters cautiously by - the door on the right, looks round the room, and - peeps into the Banquet Hall; he then goes back - to the door, and makes a sign to some one - outside. Immediately after, enter_ COUNCILLOR - NILS LYKKE _and the Swedish Commander_, JENS - BIELKE. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly._] No one? - - FINN. - - [_In the same tone._] No one, master! - - NILS LYKKE. - - And we may depend on you in all things? - - FINN. - - The commandant in Trondhiem has ever given me a name for - trustiness. - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Tis well; he has said as much to me. First of all, then—has - there come any stranger to Östråt to-night, before us? - - FINN. - - Ay; a stranger came an hour since. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly, to_ JENS BIELKE.] He is here. [_Turns again to_ - FINN.] Would you know him again? Have you seen him? - - FINN. - - Nay, none has seen him, that I know, but the gatekeeper. He - was brought at once to Lady Inger, and she—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Well? What of her? He is not gone again already? - - FINN. - - No; but it seems she holds him hidden in one of her own - rooms; for—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - It is well. - - JENS BIELKE. - - [_Whispers._] Then the first thing is to put a guard on the - gate; so are we sure of him. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_With a smile._] H’m! [_To_ FINN.] Tell me—is there any way - of leaving the castle, save by the gate? Gape not at me so! - I mean—can one escape from Östråt unseen, though the castle - gate be barred? - - FINN. - - Nay, that I know not. ’Tis true they talk of secret ways in - the vaults beneath; but no one knows them save Lady - Inger—and mayhap Mistress Elina. - - JENS BIELKE. - - The devil! - - NILS LYKKE. - - It is well. You may go. - - FINN. - - Should you need me in aught again, you have but to open the - second door on the right in the Banquet Hall, and I shall - presently be at hand. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Good. - - [_Points to the entrance-door._ FINN _goes out._ - - JENS BIELKE. - - Now, by my soul, dear friend and brother—this campaign is - like to end but scurvily for both of us. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_With a smile._] Oh—not for me, I hope. - - JENS BIELKE. - - Say you so? First of all, there is little honour to be won - in hunting an overgrown whelp like this Nils Sture. Are we - to think him mad or in his sober senses after the pranks he - has played? First he breeds bad blood among the peasants; - promises them help and all their hearts can desire;—and - then, when it comes to the pinch, off he runs to hide behind - a petticoat! - - Moreover, to say truth, I repent that I followed your - counsel and went not my own way. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] Your repentance comes somewhat late, my - brother! - - JENS BIELKE. - - For, let me tell you, I have never loved digging at a - badger’s earth. I looked for quite other sport. Here have I - ridden all the way from Jæmteland with my horsemen, and have - got me a warrant from the Trondhiem commandant to search for - the rebel wheresoever I please. All his tracks point towards - Östråt—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - He is here! He is here, I tell you! - - JENS BIELKE. - - Were it not liker, in that case, that we had found the gate - barred and well guarded? Would that we had; then could I - have found use for my men-at-arms—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - But instead, the gate is very courteously thrown open to us. - Mark now—if Inger Gyldenlöve’s fame belie her not, I warrant - she will not let her guests lack for either meat or drink. - - JENS BIELKE. - - Ay, to turn us aside from our errand! And what wild whim was - that of yours to have me leave my horsemen half a league - from the castle? Had we come in force—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - She had made us none the less welcome for _that_. But mark - well that then our coming had made a stir. The peasants - round about had held it for an outrage against Lady Inger; - she had risen high in their favour once more—and with that, - look you, we were ill served. - - JENS BIELKE. - - May be so. But what am I to do now? Count Sture is in - Östråt, you say. Ay, but how does that profit me? Be sure - Lady Inger Gyldenlöve has as many hiding-places as the fox, - and more than one outlet to them. You and I, alone, may go - snuffing about here as long as we please. I would the devil - had the whole affair! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Well, then, my friend—if you like not the turn your errand - has taken, you have but to leave the field to me. - - JENS BIELKE. - - To you? What will you do? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Caution and cunning may in this matter prove of more avail - than force of arms.—And to say truth, Captain Jens - Bielke—something of the sort has been in my mind ever since - we met in Trondhiem yesterday. - - JENS BIELKE. - - Was that why you persuaded me to leave the men-at-arms? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Both your purpose at Östråt and mine could best be served - without them; and so—— - - JENS BIELKE. - - The foul fiend seize you—I had almost said! And me to boot! - Might I not have known that there is guile in all your - dealings? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Be sure I shall need all my guile here, if I am to face my - foe with even weapons. And let me tell you, ’tis of the - utmost moment to me that I acquit me of my mission secretly - and well. You must know that when I set forth I was scarce - in favour with my lord the King. He held me in suspicion; - though I dare swear I have served him as well as any man - could, in more than one ticklish charge. - - JENS BIELKE. - - That you may safely boast. God and all men know you for the - craftiest devil in all the three kingdoms. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I thank you! Though, after all, ’tis not much to say. But - this present errand I count as indeed a crowning test of my - powers; for here I have to outwit a woman—— - - JENS BIELKE. - - Ha-ha-ha! In _that_ art you have long since given crowning - proofs of your skill, dear brother. Think you we in Sweden - know not the song— Fair maidens a-many they sigh and they - pine: “Ah God, that Nils Lykke were mine, mine, mine!” - - NILS LYKKE. - - Alas, ’tis women of twenty and thereabouts that ditty - speaks of. Lady Inger Gyldenlöve is nigh on fifty, and - wily to boot beyond all women. ’Twill be no light matter - to overmatch her. But it _must_ be done—at any cost. - Should I contrive to win certain advantages over her that - the King has long desired, I can reckon on the embassy to - France next spring. You know that I spent three years at - the University in Paris? My whole soul is set on coming - thither again, most of all if I can appear in lofty place, - a king’s ambassador.—Well, then—is it agreed—do you leave - Lady Inger to me? Remember—when you were last at Court in - Copenhagen, I made way for you with more than one fair - lady—— - - JENS BIELKE. - - Nay, truly now—that generosity cost you little; one and all - of them were at your beck and call. But let that pass; now - that I have begun amiss in this matter, I had as lief that - you should take it on your shoulders. Yet _one_ thing you - must promise—if the young Count Sture be in Östråt, you will - deliver him into my hands, dead or alive! - - NILS LYKKE. - - You shall have him all alive. I, at any rate, mean not to - kill him. But now you must ride back and join your people. - Keep guard on the road. Should I mark aught that mislikes - me, you shall know it forthwith. - - JENS BIELKE. - - Good, good. But how am I to get out——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - The fellow that brought us in will show the way. But go - quietly—— - - JENS BIELKE. - - Of course, of course. Well—good fortune to you! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Fortune has never failed me in a war with women. Haste you - now! - - [JENS BIELKE _goes out to the right._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Stands still for a while; then walks about the room, - looking round him; then he says softly:_] At last, then, I - am at Östråt—the ancient hall whereof a child, two years - ago, told me so much. - - Lucia. Ay, two years ago she was still a child. And now—now - she is dead. [_Hums with a half-smile._] “Blossoms plucked - are blossoms withered——” - - [_Looks round him again._ - - Östråt. ’Tis as though I had seen it all before; as though I - were at home here.—In there is the Banquet Hall. And - underneath is—the grave-vault. It must be there that Lucia - lies. - - [_In a lower voice, half seriously, half with forced - gaiety._ - - Were I timorous, I might well find myself fancying that when - I set foot within Östråt gate she turned about in her - coffin; as I crossed the courtyard she lifted the lid; and - when I named her name but now, ’twas as though a voice - summoned her forth from the grave-vault.—Maybe she is even - now groping her way up the stairs. The face-cloth blinds - her, but she gropes on and on in spite of it. - - Now she has reached the Banquet Hall! She stands watching me - from behind the door! - - [_Turns his head backwards over one shoulder, nods, - and says aloud:_ - - Come nearer, Lucia! Talk to me a little! Your mother keeps - me waiting. ’Tis tedious waiting—and you have helped me to - while away many a tedious hour—— - - [_Passes his hand over his forehead, and takes one - or two turns up and down._ - - Ah, there!—Right, right; there is the deep curtained window. - ’Tis there that Inger Gyldenlöve is wont to stand gazing out - over the road, as though looking for one that never comes. - In there—[_looks towards the door on the left_]—somewhere in - there is Sister Elina’s chamber. Elina? Ay, Elina is her - name. - - Can it be that she is so rare a being—so wise and so brave - as Lucia fancied her? Fair, too, they say. But for a wedded - wife—? I should not have written so plainly.—— - - [_Lost in thought, he is on the point of sitting - down by the table, but stands up again._ - - How will Lady Inger receive me?—She will scarce burn the - castle over our heads, or slip me through a trap-door. A - stab from behind—? No, not that way either—— - - [_Listens towards the hall._ - - Aha! - - [LADY INGER GYLDENLÖVE _enters from the hall._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Coldly._] My greeting to you, Sir Councillor—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Bows deeply._] Ah—the Lady of Östråt! - - LADY INGER. - - ——and my thanks that you have forewarned me of your visit. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I could do no less. I had reason to think that my coming - might surprise you—— - - LADY INGER. - - Truly, Sir Councillor, therein you judged aright. Nils Lykke - was indeed the last guest I looked to see at Östråt. - - NILS LYKKE. - - And still less, mayhap, did you think to see him come as a - friend? - - LADY INGER. - - As a friend? You add mockery to all the shame and sorrow you - have heaped upon my house? After bringing my child to the - grave, you still dare—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - With your leave, Lady Inger Gyldenlöve—on that matter we - should scarce agree; for you count as nothing what _I_ lost - by that same unhappy chance. I purposed nought but in - honour. I was tired of my unbridled life; my thirtieth year - was already past; I longed to mate me with a good and gentle - wife. Add to all this the hope of becoming your son-in-law—— - - LADY INGER. - - Beware, Sir Councillor! I have done all in my power to hide - my child’s unhappy fate. But because it is out of sight, - think not it is out of mind. There may yet come a time—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - You threaten me, Lady Inger? I have offered you my hand in - amity; you refuse to take it. Henceforth, then, it is to be - open war between us? - - LADY INGER. - - I knew not there had ever been aught else? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Not on _your_ side, mayhap. _I_ have never been your - enemy,—though, as a subject of the King of Denmark, I lacked - not good cause. - - LADY INGER. - - I understand you. I have not been pliant enough. It has not - proved so easy as some of you hoped to lure me over into - your camp.—Yet methinks you have nought to complain of. My - daughter Merete’s husband is your countryman—further I - cannot go. My position is no easy one, Nils Lykke! - - NILS LYKKE. - - That I can well believe. Both nobles and people here in - Norway think they have an ancient claim on you—a claim, ’tis - said, you have but half fulfilled. - - LADY INGER. - - Your pardon, Sir Councillor,—I account for my doings to none - but God and myself. If it please you, then, let me - understand what brings you hither. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Gladly, Lady Inger! The purpose of my mission to this - country can scarce be unknown to you——? - - LADY INGER. - - I know the mission that report assigns you. Our King would - fain know how the Norwegian nobles stand affected towards - him. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Assuredly. - - LADY INGER. - - Then that is why you visit Östråt? - - NILS LYKKE. - - In part. But it is far from my purpose to demand any - profession of loyalty from you—— - - LADY INGER. - - What then? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Hearken to me, Lady Inger! You said yourself but now that - your position is no easy one. You stand half way between two - hostile camps, whereof neither dares trust you fully. Your - own interest must needs bind you to _us_. On the other hand, - you are bound to the disaffected by the bond of nationality, - and—who knows?—mayhap by some secret tie as well. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] A secret tie! Oh God, can he——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Notices her emotion, but makes no sign, and continues - without change of manner._] You cannot but see that such a - position must ere long become impossible.—Suppose, now, it - lay in my power to free you from these embarrassments - which—— - - LADY INGER. - - In your power, you say? - - NILS LYKKE. - - First of all, Lady Inger, I would beg you to lay no stress - on any careless words I may have used concerning that which - lies between us two. Think not that I have forgotten for a - moment the wrong I have done you. Suppose, now, I had long - purposed to make atonement, as far as might be, where I had - sinned. Suppose it were for that reason I had contrived to - have this mission assigned me. - - LADY INGER. - - Speak your meaning more clearly, Sir Councillor;—I cannot - follow you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I can scarce be mistaken in thinking that you, as well as I, - know of the threatened troubles in Sweden. You know, or at - least you can guess, that this rising is of far wider aim - than is commonly supposed, and you understand therefore that - our King cannot look on quietly and let things take their - course. Am I not right? - - LADY INGER. - - Go on. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Searchingly, after a short pause._] There is _one_ - possible chance that might endanger Gustav Vasa’s throne—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] Whither is he tending? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——the chance, namely, that there should exist in Sweden a - man entitled by his birth to claim election to the kingship. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Evasively._] The Swedish nobles have been even as bloodily - hewn down as our own, Sir Councillor. Where would you seek - for——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_With a smile._] Seek? The man is found already—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_Starts violently._] Ah! He is found? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——and he is too closely akin to you, Lady Inger, to be far - from your thoughts at this moment. [_Looks fixedly at her._ - - The last Count Sture left a son—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_With a cry._] Holy Saviour, how know you——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Surprised._] Be calm, Madam, and let me finish.—This young - man has till now lived quietly with his mother, Sten Sture’s - widow. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Breathes more freely._] With—? Ah, yes—true, true! - - NILS LYKKE. - - But now he has come forward openly. He has shown himself in - the Dales as leader of the peasants; their numbers are - growing day by day; and—as mayhap you know—they are finding - friends among the peasants on this side of the border-hills. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Who has in the meantime regained her composure._] - - Sir Councillor,—you speak of all these matters as though - they must of necessity be known to me. What ground have I - given you to believe so? I know, and wish to know, nothing. - All my care is to live quietly within my own domain; I give - no countenance to disturbers of the peace; but neither must - you reckon on me if it be your purpose to suppress them. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_In a low voice._] Would you still be inactive, were it my - purpose to come to their aid? - - LADY INGER. - - How am I to understand you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Have you not seen, then, whither I have been aiming all this - time?—Well, I will tell you all, frankly and openly. Know, - then, that the King and his Council see clearly that we can - have no sure footing in Norway so long as the nobles and the - people continue, as now, to think themselves wronged and - oppressed. We understand to the full that willing allies are - better than sullen subjects; and we have therefore no - heartier wish than to loosen the bonds that hamper us, in - effect, even as straitly as you. But you will scarce deny - that the temper of Norway towards us makes such a step too - dangerous—so long as we have no sure support behind us. - - LADY INGER. - - And this support——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Should naturally come from Sweden. But, mark well, not so - long as Gustav Vasa holds the helm; his reckoning with - Denmark is not yet settled, and mayhap never will be. But a - new king of Sweden, who had the people with him, and who - owed his throne to the help of Denmark——. Well, you begin to - understand me? _Then_ we could safely say to you Norwegians: - “Take back your old ancestral rights; choose you a ruler - after your own mind; be our friends in need, as we will be - yours!”—Mark you well, Lady Inger, herein is our generosity - less than it may seem; for you must see that, far from - weakening, ’twill rather strengthen us. - - And now that I have opened my heart to you so fully, - do you too cast away all mistrust. And therefore - [_confidently_]—the knight from Sweden, who came - hither an hour before me—— - - LADY INGER. - - Then you already know of his coming? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Most certainly. ’Tis he whom I seek. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] Strange! Then it must be as Olaf Skaktavl - said. [_To_ NILS LYKKE.] I pray you wait here, Sir - Councillor! I will go bring him to you. - - [_Goes out through the Banquet Hall._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Looks after her a while in exultant astonishment._] She is - bringing him! Ay, truly—she is bringing him! The battle is - half won. I little thought it would go so smoothly.— - - She is deep in the counsels of the rebels; she started in - terror when I named Sten Sture’s son.— - - And now? H’m! Since Lady Inger has been simple enough to - walk into the snare, Nils Sture will not make many - difficulties. A hot-blooded boy, thoughtless and rash——. - With my promise of help he will set forth at once—unhappily - Jens Bielke will snap him up by the way—and the whole rising - will be nipped in the bud. - - And then? Then one further point to our advantage. It is - spread abroad that the young Count Sture has been at - Östråt,—that a Danish envoy has had audience of Lady - Inger—that thereupon the young Count Nils has been snapped - up by King Gustav’s men-at-arms a mile from the castle.——Let - Inger Gyldenlöve’s name among the people stand never so - high—’twill scarce recover from such a blow. [_Starts up in - sudden uneasiness._ - - By all the devils—! What if she has scented mischief! It may - be he is even now slipping through our fingers—[_Listens - towards the hall, and says with relief._] Ah, there is no - fear. Here they come. - - [LADY INGER GYLDENLÖVE _enters from the hall, - accompanied by_ OLAF SKAKTAVI. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ NILS LYKKE.] Here is the man you seek. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Powers of hell—what means this? - - LADY INGER. - - I have told this knight your name and all that you have - imparted to me—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Irresolutely._] Ay? Have you so? Well—— - - LADY INGER. - - ——and I will not hide from you that his faith in your help - is none of the strongest. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Is it not? - - LADY INGER. - - Can you marvel at that? Surely you know both his way of - thinking and his bitter fate—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - This man’s—? Ah—yes, truly—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_To_ NILS LYKKE.] But seeing ’tis Peter Kanzler himself - that has appointed us this meeting—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Peter Kanzler—? [_Recovers himself quickly._] Ay, right,—I - have a mission from Peter Kanzler—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - He must know best whom he can trust. So why should I trouble - my head with pondering how—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, you are right, noble Sir; why waste time over that? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Rather let us come straight to the matter. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Straight to the point; no beating about the bush—’tis ever - my fashion. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Then will you tell me your errand here? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Methinks you can partly guess my errand—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Peter Kanzler said something of papers that—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Papers? Ay, true, the papers! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Doubtless you have them with you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Of course; safely bestowed; so safely that I cannot at - once—— - - [_Appears to search the inner pockets of his - doublet; says to himself:_ - - Who the devil is he? What pretext can I make? I may be on - the brink of great discoveries—— - - [_Notices that the_ SERVANTS _are laying the table - and lighting the lamps in the Banquet Hall, and - says to_ OLAF SKAKTAVL: - - Ah, I see Lady Inger has taken order for the evening meal. - Mayhap we could better talk of our affairs at table. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Good; as you will. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Time gained—all gained! - - [_To_ LADY INGER _with a show of great - friendliness:_ - - And meanwhile we might learn what part Lady Inger Gyldenlöve - purposes to take in our design? - - LADY INGER. - - I?—None. - - NILS LYKKE AND OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - None! - - LADY INGER. - - Can ye marvel, noble Sirs, that I venture not on a game - wherein loss would mean loss of all? And that, too, when - none of my allies dare trust me fully. - - NILS LYKKE. - - That reproach touches not me. I trust you blindly; I pray - you be assured of that. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Who should believe in you, if not your countrymen? - - LADY INGER. - - Truly,—this confidence rejoices me. - - [_Goes to a cupboard in the back wall and fills two - goblets with wine._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Curse her, will she slip out of the noose? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Hands a goblet to each._] And since so it is, I offer you - a cup of welcome to Östråt. Drink, noble knights! Pledge me - to the last drop! - - [_Looks from one to the other after they have drunk, - and says gravely_: - - But now I must tell you—one goblet held a welcome for my - friend; the other—death for my enemy! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Throws down the goblet._] Ah, I am poisoned! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_At the same time, clutches his sword._] Death and hell, - have you murdered me? - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ OLAF SKAKTAVL, _pointing to_ NILS LYKKE.] You see the - Danes’ confidence in Inger Gyldenlöve—— - - [_To_ NILS LYKKE, _pointing to_ OLAF SKAKTAVL.] ——and - likewise my countrymen’s faith in me! [_To both of them._ - - Yet you would have me place myself in your power? Gently, - noble Sirs—gently! The Lady of Östråt is not yet in her - dotage. - - [ELINA GYLDENLÖVE _enters by the door on the left._ - - ELINA. - - I heard loud voices—. What is amiss? - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ NILS LYKKE.] My daughter Elina. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly._] Elina! I had not pictured her thus. - - [ELINA _catches sight of_ NILS LYKKE, _and stands - still, as in surprise, gazing at him._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Touches her arm._] My child—this knight is—— - - ELINA. - - [_Motions her mother back with her hand, still looking - intently at him, and says:_] There is no need! I see who he - is. He is Nils Lykke. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside, to_ LADY INGER.] How? Does she know me? Can Lucia - have—? Can she know——? - - LADY INGER. - - Hush! She knows nothing. - - ELINA. - - [_To herself._] I knew it;—even so must Nils Lykke appear. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Approaches her._] Yes, Elina Gyldenlöve,—you have guessed - aright. And as it seems that, in some sense, you know - me,—and, moreover, as I am your mother’s guest,——you will - not deny me the flower-spray you wear in your bosom. So long - as it is fresh and fragrant, I shall have in it an image of - yourself. - - ELINA. - - [_Proudly, but still gazing at him._] Pardon me, Sir - Knight——’twas plucked in my own chamber, and _there_ can - grow no flower for you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Loosening a spray of flowers that he wears in the front of - his doublet._] At least you will not disdain this humble - gift. ’Twas a farewell token from a courtly dame when I set - forth from Trondhiem this morning.——But mark me, noble - maiden,——were I to offer you a gift that were fully worthy - of you, it could be nought less than a princely crown. - - ELINA. - - [_Who has taken the flowers passively._] And were it the - royal crown of Denmark you held forth to me——before I shared - it with _you_, I would crush it to pieces between my hands, - and cast the fragments at your feet! - - [_Throws down the flowers at his feet, and goes into - the Banquet Hall._ - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Mutters to himself._] Bold——as Inger Ottisdaughter by Knut - Alfson’s bier! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Softly, after looking alternately at_ ELINA _and_ NILS - LYKKE.] The wolf _can_ be tamed. Now to forge the fetters. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Picks up the flowers and gazes in rapture after_ ELINA.] - God’s holy blood, but she is proud and fair! - ------ - - - - - ACT THIRD - - _The Banquet Hall. A high bow-window in the background; a - smaller window in front on the left. Several doors on - each side. The ceiling is supported by massive wooden - pillars, on which, as well as on the walls, are hung all - sorts of weapons. Pictures of saints, knights, and - ladies hang in long rows. Pendent from the ceiling a - large many-branched lamp, alight. In front, on the - right, an ancient carven high-seat. In the middle of the - hall, a table with the remnants of the evening meal._ - - ELINA GYLDENLÖVE _enters from the left, slowly and in deep - thought. Her expression shows that she is going over - again in her mind the scene with_ NILS LYKKE. _At last - she repeats the motion with which she flung away the - flowers, and says in a low voice:_ - - ELINA. - - ——And then he gathered up the fragments of the crown of - Denmark—no, ’twas the flowers—and: “God’s holy blood, but - she is proud and fair!” - - Had he whispered the words in the most secret spot, long - leagues from Östråt,—still had I heard them! - - How I hate him! How I have always hated him,—this Nils - Lykke!—There lives not another man like him, ’tis said. He - plays with women—and treads them under his feet. - - And ’twas to _him_ my mother thought to offer me!—How I hate - him! - - They say Nils Lykke is unlike all other men. It is not true! - There is nothing strange in him. There are many, many like - him! When Biörn used to tell me his tales, all the princes - looked as Nils Lykke looks. When I sat lonely here in the - hall and dreamed my histories, and my knights came and - went,—they were one and all even as he. - - How strange and how good it is to hate! Never have I known - how sweet it can be—till to-night. Ah—not to live a thousand - years would I sell the moments I have lived since I saw - him!— - - “God’s holy blood, but she is proud——” - - [_Goes slowly towards the back, opens the window and - looks out._ NILS LYKKE _comes in by the first - door on the right._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] “Sleep well at Östråt, Sir Knight,” said - Inger Gyldenlöve as she left me. Sleep well? Ay, ’tis easily - said, but——Out there, sky and sea in tumult; below, in the - grave-vault, a young girl on her bier; the fate of two - kingdoms in my hand;—and in my breast a withered flower that - a woman has flung at my feet. Truly, I fear me sleep will be - slow of coming. - - [_Notices_ ELINA, _who has left the window, and is - going out on the left._ - - There she is. Her haughty eyes seem veiled with thought.—Ah, - if I but dared—. [_Aloud._] Mistress Elina! - - ELINA. - - [_Stops at the door._] What will you? Why do you pursue me? - - NILS LYKKE. - - You err; I pursue you not$1 $2am myself pursued. - - ELINA. - - You? - - NILS LYKKE. - - By a multitude of thoughts. Therefore ’tis with sleep as - with you:—it flees me. - - ELINA. - - Go to the window, and there you will find pastime;—a - storm-tossed sea—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Smiles._] A storm-tossed sea? That may I find in you as - well. - - ELINA. - - In me? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, of that our first meeting has assured me. - - ELINA. - - And that offends you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Nay, in nowise; yet I could wish to see you of milder mood. - - ELINA. - - [_Proudly._] Think you that you will ever have your wish? - - NILS LYKKE. - - I am sure of it. I have a welcome word to say to you. - - ELINA. - - What is it? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Farewell. - - ELINA. - - [_Comes a step nearer him._] Farewell? You are leaving - Östråt—so soon? - - NILS LYKKE. - - This very night. - - ELINA.. - - [_Seems to hesitate for a moment; then says coldly._] Then - take my greeting, Sir Knight! - - [_Bows and is about to go._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - Elina Gyldenlöve,—I have no right to keep you here; but - ’twill be unlike your nobleness if you refuse to hear what I - have to say to you. - - ELINA. - - I hear you, Sir Knight. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I know you hate me. - - ELINA. - - You are keen-sighted, I perceive. - - NILS LYKKE. - - But I know, too, that I have fully merited your hate. - Unseemly and wounding were the words I wrote of you in my - letter to Lady Inger. - - ELINA. - - Like enough; I have not read them. - - NILS LYKKE. - - But at least their purport is not unknown to you; I know - your mother has not left you in ignorance of the matter; at - the least she has told you how I praised the lot of the man - who—; surely you know the hope I nursed— - - ELINA. - - Sir Knight—if ’tis of that you would speak— - - NILS LYKKE. - - I speak of it, only to ask pardon for my words; for no other - reason, I swear to you. If my fame—as I have too much cause - to fear—has gone before me to Östråt, you must needs know - enough of my life not to wonder that in such things I should - go to work something boldly. I have met many women, Elina - Gyldenlöve; but not one have I found unyielding. Such - lessons, look you, teach a man to be secure. He loses the - habit of roundabout ways—— - - ELINA. - - May be so. I know not of what metal those women can have - been made. - - For the rest, you err in thinking ’twas your letter to my - mother that aroused my soul’s hatred and bitterness against - you. It is of older date. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Uneasily._] Of older date? What mean you? - - ELINA. - - ’Tis as you guessed:—your fame has gone before you, to - Östråt, even as over all the land. Nils Lykke’s name is - never spoken save with the name of some woman whom he has - beguiled and cast off. Some speak it in wrath, others with - laughter and wanton jeering at those weak-souled creatures. - But through the wrath and the laughter and the jeers rings - the song they have made of you, full of insolent challenge, - like an enemy’s song of triumph. - - ’Tis all this together that has begotten my hate for you. - You were ever in my thoughts, and ever I longed to meet you - face to face, that you might learn that there are women on - whom your subtle speeches are lost—if you should think to - use them. - - NILS LYKKE. - - You judge me unjustly, if you judge from what rumour has - told of me. Even if there be truth in all you have - heard,—you know not the causes behind it.—As a boy of - seventeen I began my course of pleasure. I have lived full - fifteen years since then. Light women granted me all that I - would—even before the wish had shaped itself into a prayer; - and what I offered them they seized with eager hands. You - are the first woman that has flung back a gift of mine with - scorn at my feet. - - Think not I reproach you. Rather I honour you for it, as - never before have I honoured woman. But for this I reproach - my fate—and the thought is a gnawing pain to me—that you and - I were not sooner brought face to face.——Elina Gyldenlöve! - Your mother has told me of you. While far from Östråt life - ran its restless course, you went your lonely way in - silence, living in your dreams and histories. Therefore you - will understand what I have to tell you.—Know, then, that - once I too lived even such a life as yours. Methought that - when I stepped forth into the great world, a noble and - stately woman would come to meet me, and would beckon to me - and point out the path towards a glorious goal.—I was - deceived, Elina Gyldenlöve! Women came to meet me; but _she_ - was not among them. Ere yet I had come to full manhood, I - had learnt to despise them all. - - Was it my fault? Why were not the others even as you?—I know - the fate of your fatherland lies heavy on your soul; and you - know the part I have in these affairs——. ’Tis said of me - that I am false as the sea-foam. Mayhap I am; but if I be, - it is women who have made me so. Had I sooner found what I - sought,—had I met a woman proud and noble and high-souled - even as you, then had my path been different indeed. At this - moment, maybe, I had been standing at your side as the - champion of all that suffer wrong in Norway’s land. For - _this_ I believe: a woman is the mightiest power in the - world, and in her hand it lies to guide a man whither God - Almighty would have him go. - - ELINA. - - [_To herself._] Can it be as he says? Nay, nay; there is - falsehood in his eyes and deceit on his lips. And yet—no - song is sweeter than his words. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Coming closer, speaks low and more intimately._] As you - have dwelt here at Östråt, alone with your changeful - thoughts, how often have you felt your bosom stifling; how - often have the roof and walls seemed to shrink together till - they crushed your very soul. Then have your longings taken - wing with you; then have you yearned to fly far from here, - you knew not whither.—How often have you not wandered alone - by the fiord; far out a ship has sailed by in fair array, - with knights and ladies on her deck, with song and music of - stringed instruments;—a faint, far-off rumour of great - events has reached your ears;—and you have felt a longing in - your breast, an unconquerable craving to know all that lies - beyond the sea. But you have not understood what ailed you. - At times you have thought it was the fate of your fatherland - that filled you with all these restless broodings. You - deceived yourself;—a maiden so young as you has other food - for musing.——Elina Gyldenlöve! Have you never had visions of - an unknown power—a strong mysterious might, that binds - together the destinies of mortals? When you dreamed of the - many-coloured life far out in the wide world—when you - dreamed of knightly jousts and joyous festivals—saw you - never in your dreams a knight, who stood in the midst of the - gayest rout, with a smile on his lips and with bitterness in - his heart,—a knight that had once dreamed a dream as fair as - yours, of a woman noble and stately, for whom he went ever - a-seeking, and ever in vain? - - ELINA. - - Who are you, that have power to clothe my most secret - thoughts in words? How can you tell me what I have borne in - my inmost soul—yet knew it not myself? How know you——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - All that I have told you, I have read in your eyes. - - ELINA. - - Never has any man spoken to me as you have spoken. I have - understood you but dimly; and yet—all, all seems changed - since—— - - [_To herself._] Now I understand why they said that Nils - Lykke was unlike all others. - - NILS LYKKE. - - There is one thing in the world that might drive a man to - madness, but to think of it; and that is the thought of what - might have been, had things but fallen out in this way or - that. Had I met you on my path while the tree of my life was - yet green and budding, at this hour, mayhap, you had been—— - - But forgive me, noble lady! Our speech of these past few - moments has made me forget how we stand one to another. - ’Twas as though a secret voice had told me from the first - that to you I could speak openly, without flattery or - dissimulation. - - ELINA. - - That can you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Tis well;—and it may be that this openness has already in - part reconciled us. Ay—my hope is yet bolder. The time may - yet come when you will think of the stranger knight without - hate or bitterness in your soul. Nay,—mistake me not! I mean - not _now_—but some time, in the days to come. And that this - may be the less hard for you—and as I have begun once for - all to speak to you plainly and openly —let me tell you—— - - ELINA. - - Sir Knight——! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Smiling._] Ah, I see the thought of my letter still - affrights you. Fear nought on that score. I would from my - heart it were unwritten, for—I know ’twill concern you - little enough, so I may even say it right out—for I love you - not, and shall never come to love you. Fear nothing, - therefore, as I said before; I shall in nowise seek to—— - - But what ails you——? - - ELINA. - - Me? Nothing, nothing.—Tell me but one thing: why do you - still wear those flowers? What would you with them? - - NILS LYKKE. - - These? Are they not a gage of battle you have thrown down to - the wicked Nils Lykke, on behalf of all womankind? What - could I do but take it up? - - You asked what I would with them? [_Softly._] When I stand - again amid the fair ladies of Denmark—when the music of the - strings is hushed and there is silence in the hall—then will - I bring forth these flowers and tell a tale of a young - maiden sitting alone in a gloomy black-beamed hall, far to - the north in Norway—— [_Breaks off and bows respectfully._ - - But I fear I detain the noble daughter of the house too - long. We shall meet no more; for before daybreak I shall be - gone. So now I bid you farewell. - - ELINA. - - Fare you well, Sir Knight! [_A short silence._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - Again you are deep in thought, Elina Gyldenlöve! Is it the - fate of your fatherland that weighs upon you still? - - ELINA. - - [_Shakes her head, absently gazing straight in front of - her._] My fatherland?—I think not of my fatherland. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Then ’tis the strife and misery of the time that disquiets - you. - - ELINA. - - The time? I had forgotten it——You go to Denmark? Said you - not so - - NILS LYKKE. - - I go to Denmark. - - ELINA. - - Can I look towards Denmark from this hall? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Points to the window on the left._] Ay, from this window. - Denmark lies there, to the south. - - ELINA. - - And is it far from here? More than a hundred leagues? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Much more. The sea lies between you and Denmark. - - ELINA. - - [_To herself._] The sea? Thought has seagulls’ wings. The - sea cannot stay it. - - [_Goes out to the left._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Looks after her awhile; then says:_] If I could but spare - two days now—or even one—I would have her in my power, even - as the others. - - And yet is there rare stuff in this maiden. She is proud. - Might I not after all——? No; rather humble her—— - - [_Paces the room._ - - Verily, I believe she has set my blood afire. Who would have - thought it possible after all these years?—Enough of this! I - must get out of the tangle I have here thrust myself into. - - [_Sits in a chair on the right._ - - What is the meaning of it? Both Olaf Skaktavl and Inger - Gyldenlöve seem blind to the mistrust ’twill waken, when - ’tis rumoured that I am in their league.—Or can Lady Inger - have seen through my purpose? Can she have seen that all my - promises were but designed to lure Nils Sture forth from his - hiding-place? - - [_Springs up._ - - Damnation! Is it I that have been fooled? ’Tis like enough - that Count Sture is not at Östråt at all. It may be the - rumour of his flight was but a feint. He may be safe and - sound among his friends in Sweden, while I—— - - [_Walks restlessly up and down._ - - And to think I was so sure of success! If I should effect - nothing? If Lady Inger should penetrate all my designs—and - publish my discomfiture—-. To be a laughing-stock both - here and in Denmark! To have sought to lure Lady Inger - into a trap—and given her cause the help it most - needed—strengthened her in the people’s favour——! Ah, I - could well-nigh sell myself to the Evil One, would he but - help me to lay hands on Count Sture. - - [_The window in the background is pushed open._ NILS - STENSSON _appears outside._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Clutches at his sword._] Who is there? - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Jumps down on to the floor._] Ah; here I am at last then! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] What means this? - - NILS STENSSON. - - God’s peace, master! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Thanks, good Sir! Methinks you have chosen a strange way of - entrance. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, what the devil was I to do? The gate was shut. Folk must - sleep in this house like bears at Yuletide. - - NILS LYKKE. - - God be thanked! Know you not that a good conscience is the - best pillow? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, it must be even so; for with all my rattling and - thundering, I—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——You won not in? - - NILS STENSSON. - - You have hit it. So I said to myself: As you are bidden to - be in Östråt to-night, if you have to go through fire and - water, you may surely make free to creep through a window. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Ah, if it should be——! - - [_Moves a step or two nearer._ - - Was it, then, of the last necessity that you should reach - Östråt to-night? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Was it? Ay, faith but it was. I love not to keep folk - waiting, I can tell you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Aha,—then Lady Inger Gyldenlöve looks for your coming? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Lady Inger Gyldenlöve? Nay, that I can scarce say for - certain; [_with a sly smile_] but there might be some one - else—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Smiles in answer._] Ah, so there might be some one else—? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Tell me—are you of the house? - - NILS LYKKE. - - I? Well, in so far that I am Lady Inger’s guest this - evening. - - NILS STENSSON. - - A guest?—Is not to-night the third night after Martinmas? - - NILS LYKKE. - - The third night after—? Ay, right enough.—Would you seek the - lady of the house at once? I think she is not yet gone to - rest. But might not _you_ sit down and rest awhile, dear - young Sir? See, here is yet a flagon of wine remaining, and - doubtless you will find some food. Come, fall to; you will - do wisely to refresh your strength. - - NILS STENSSON. - - You are right, Sir; ’twere not amiss. - - [_Sits down by the table and eats and drinks._ - - Both roast meat and sweet cakes! Why, you live like lords - here! When one has slept, as I have, on the naked ground, - and lived on bread and water for four or five days—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Looks at him with a smile._] Ay, such a life must be hard - for one that is wont to sit at the high-table in noble - halls—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - Noble halls——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - But now can you take your ease at Östråt, as long as it - likes you. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Pleased._] Ay? Can I truly? Then I am not to begone again - so soon? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Nay, that I know not. Sure you yourself can best say that. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Softly._] Oh, the devil! [_Stretches himself in the - chair._] Well, you see—’tis not yet certain. I, for my part, - were nothing loath to stay quiet here awhile; but—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——But you are not in all points your own master? There be - other duties and other affairs——? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, that is just the rub. Were I to choose, I would rest me - at Östråt at least the winter through; I have for the most - part led a soldier’s life, and—— - - [_Interrupts himself suddenly, fills a goblet, and - drinks._ - - Your health, Sir! - - NILS LYKKE. - - A soldier’s life? H’m! - - NILS STENSSON. - - Nay, what I would have said is this: I have long been eager - to see Lady Inger Gyldenlöve, whose fame has spread so wide. - She must be a queenly woman,—is’t not so?——The one thing I - like not in her, is that she is so cursedly slow to take - open action. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Open action? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, ay, you understand me; I mean she is so loath to take a - hand in driving the foreign masters out of the land. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, there you are right. But if now you do what you can, you - will doubtless move her. - - NILS STENSSON. - - I? God knows ’twould but little serve if _I_—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Yet ’tis strange you should seek her here if you have so - little hope. - - NILS STENSSON. - - What mean you?—Tell me, know you Lady Inger? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Surely; since I am her guest—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, but it in nowise follows that you know her. I too am her - guest, yet have I never seen so much as her shadow. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Yet did you speak of her—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - ——as all folk speak. Why should I not? And besides, I have - often enough heard from Peter Kanzler—— - - [_Stops in confusion, and falls to eating busily._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - You would have said——? - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Eating._] I? Nay, ’tis all one. - - [_Nils Lykke laughs._ - - NILS STENSSON. - - Why laugh you, Sir? - - NILS LYKKE. - - At nothing, Sir! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Drinks._] A pretty vintage ye have in this house. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Approaches him confidentially._] Listen—were it not time - now to throw off the mask? - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Smiling._] The mask? Why, do as seems best to you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Then off with all disguise. You are known, Count Sture! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Bursts out laughing._] Count Sture? Do you too take me for - Count Sture? - - [_Rises from the table._ - - You mistake, Sir! I am not Count Sture. - - NILS LYKKE. - - You are not? Then who are you? - - NILS STENSSON. - - My name is Nils Stensson. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Looks at him with a smile._] H’m! Nils Stensson? But you - are not Sten Sture’s son Nils? The name chimes at least. - - NILS STENSSON. - - True enough; but God knows what right I have to bear it. My - father I never knew; my mother was a poor peasant-woman, - that was robbed and murdered in one of the old feuds. Peter - Kanzler chanced to be on the spot; he took me into his care, - brought me up, and taught me the trade of arms. As you know, - King Gustav has been hunting him this many a year; and I - have followed him faithfully, wherever he went. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Peter Kanzler has taught you more than the trade of arms, - meseems.——Well, well; then you are not Nils Sture. But at - least you come from Sweden. Peter Kanzler has sent you - hither to find a stranger, who—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Nods cunningly._]——who is found already. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Somewhat uncertain._] And whom you do not know? - - NILS STENSSON. - - As little as you know me; for I swear to you by God himself: - I am not Count Sture! - - NILS LYKKE. - - In sober earnest, Sir? - - NILS STENSSON. - - As truly as I live! Wherefore should I deny it, if I were? - - NILS LYKKE. - - But where, then, is Count Sture? - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_In a low voice._] Ay, _that_ is just the secret. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Whispers._] Which is known to you? Is’t not so? - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Nods._] And which I am to tell you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - To tell me? Well then,—where is he? - - [NILS STENSSON _points upwards._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - Up there? Lady Inger holds him hidden in the loft-room? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Nay, nay; you mistake me. - - [_Looks round cautiously._ - - Nils Sture is in Heaven! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Dead? And where? - - NILS STENSSON. - - In his mother’s castle,—three weeks since. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ah, you are deceiving me! ’Tis but five or six days since he - crossed the frontier into Norway. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Oh, that was I. - - NILS LYKKE. - - But just before that the Count had appeared in the Dales. - The people, who were restless already, broke out openly and - would have chosen him for king. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ha-ha-ha; that was me too! - - NILS LYKKE. - - You? - - NILS STENSSON. - - I will tell you how it came about. One day Peter Kanzler - called me to him and gave me to know that great things were - preparing. He bade me set out for Norway and fare to Östråt, - where I must be on a certain fixed day—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Nods._] The third night after Martinmas. - - NILS STENSSON. - - There I was to meet a stranger—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, right; I am he. - - NILS STENSSON. - - From him I should learn what more I had to do. Moreover, I - was to let him know that the Count was dead of a sudden, but - that as yet ’twas known to no one save to his mother the - Countess, together with Peter Kanzler and a few old servants - of the Stures. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I understand. The Count was the peasants’ rallying-point. - Were the tidings of his death to spread, they would fall - asunder,—and ’twould all come to nought. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, maybe so; I know little of such matters. - - NILS LYKKE. - - But how came you to give yourself out for the Count? - - NILS STENSSON. - - How came I to——? Nay, what know I? Many’s the mad prank I - have hit on in my day. And yet ’twas not I hit on it - neither; for whereever I appeared in the Dales, the people - crowded round me and hailed me as Count Sture. Deny it as I - pleased, ’twas wasted breath. The Count had been there two - years before, they said—and the veriest child knew me again. - Well, so be it, thought I; never again will you be a Count - in this life; why not try what ’tis like for once? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Well,—and what did you more? - - NILS STENSSON. - - I? I ate and drank and took my ease. The only pity was that - I had to take the road again so soon. But when I set forth - across the frontier—ha-ha-ha—I promised them I would soon be - back with three or four thousand men—I know not how many I - said—and then we would lay on in earnest. - - NILS LYKKE. - - And you did not bethink you that you were acting rashly? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, afterwards; but then, to be sure, ’twas too late. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I grieve for you, my young friend; but you will soon come to - feel the effects of your folly. Let me tell you that you are - pursued. A troop of Swedish men-at-arms is out after you. - - NILS STENSSON. - - After me? Ha-ha-ha! Nay, that is rare! And when they come - and think they have Count Sture in their clutches—ha-ha-ha! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Gravely._]——Then ’tis all over with you. - - NILS STENSSON. - - All over——? But I am not Count Sture. - - NILS LYKKE. - - You have called the people to arms. You have given seditious - promises, and raised troubles in the land. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, but ’twas only in jest! - - NILS LYKKE. - - King Gustav will scarce take that view of the affair. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Truly, there is something in what you say. To think I could - be so featherwitted——Well, well, I’m not a dead man yet! You - will protect me; and besides—-the men-at-arms can scarce be - at my heels yet. - - NILS LYKKE. - - But what else have you to tell me? - - NILS STENSSON. - - I? Nothing. When once I have given you the packet—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Off his guard._] The packet? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, sure you know—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ah, right, right; the papers from Peter Kanzler—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - See, here they all are. - - [_Takes out a packet from inside his doublet, and - hands it to_ NILS LYKKE. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Letters and papers for Olaf Skaktavl. [_To_ - NILS STENSSON. - - The packet is open, I see. ’Tis like you know what it - contains? - - NILS STENSSON. - - No, good sir; I love not to read writing; and for reason - good. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I understand; you have given most care to the trade of arms. - - [_Sits down by the table on the right, and runs - through the papers._ - - Aha! Here is light enough and to spare on what is brewing. - - This small letter tied with a silken thread—[_Examines the - address._] This too for Olaf Skaktavl. [_Opens the letter, - and glances through its contents._] From Peter Kanzler. I - thought as much. [_Reads under his breath._] “I am hard - bested, for—”; ay, sure enough; here it stands,—“Young Count - Sture has been gathered to his fathers, even at the time - fixed for the revolt to break forth”—“—but all may yet be - made good—” What now? [_Reads on in astonishment._] “You - must know, then, Olaf Skaktavl, that the young man who - brings you this letter is a son of—” Heaven and earth—can it - be so?—Ay, by the cross of Christ, even so ’tis written! - [_Glances at_ NILS STENSSON.] Can he be—? Ah, if it were so! - [_Reads on._] “I have nurtured him since he was a year old; - but up to this day I have ever refused to give him back, - trusting to have in him a sure hostage for Inger - Gyldenlöve’s faithfulness to us and to our friends. Yet in - that respect he has but little availed us. You may marvel - that I told you not this secret when you were with me here - of late; therefore will I confess freely that I feared you - might seize upon him, even as I had done, and to the same - intent. But now, when you have seen Lady Inger, and have - doubtless assured yourself how loath she is to have a hand - in our undertaking, you will see that ’tis wisest to give - her back her own as soon as may be. Well might it come to - pass that in her joy and security and thankfulness—” —— - “—that is now our last hope.” - - [_Sits for a while as though struck dumb with - surprise; then exclaims in a low voice:_ - - Aha,—what a letter! Gold would not buy it! - - NILS STENSSON. - - ’Tis plain I have brought you weighty tidings. Ay, ay,—Peter - Kanzler has many irons in the fire, folk say. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] What to do with all this? A thousand paths - are open to me—What if I were—? No, ’twere to risk too much. - But if—ah, if I—? I will venture it! - - [_Tears the letter across, crumples up the pieces, - and hides them inside his doublet; puts back the - other papers into the packet, which he thrusts - inside his belt; rises and says:_ - - A word, my young friend! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Approaching him._] Well—your looks say that the game goes - bravely. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, by my soul it does. You have given me a hand of nought - but court cards,—queens and knaves—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - But what of me, that have brought all these good tidings? - Have I nought more to do? - - NILS LYKKE. - - You? Ay, that have you. You belong to the game. You are a - king—and king of trumps too. - - NILS STENSSON. - - I a king? Oh, now I understand; you are thinking of my - exaltation—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Your exaltation? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay; that which you foretold for me, if King Gustav’s men got - me in their clutches—— - - [_Makes a motion to indicate hanging._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - True enough;—but let that trouble you no more. It now lies - with yourself alone whether within a month you shall have - the hempen noose or a chain of gold about your neck. - - NILS STENSSON. - - A chain of gold? And it lies with me? - - [NILS LYKKE _nods._ - - NILS STENSSON. - - Why then, the devil take doubting! Do you but tell me what I - am to do. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I will. But first you must swear me a solemn oath that no - living creature in the wide world shall know what I confide - to you. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Is that all? You shall have ten oaths, if you will. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Not so lightly, young Sir! ’Tis no jesting matter. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Well, well; I am grave enough. - - NILS LYKKE. - - In the Dales you called yourself a Count’s son;—is’t not so? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Nay—begin you now on _that_ again? Have I not made free - confession—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - You mistake me. What you said in the Dales was the truth. - - NILS STENSSON. - - The truth? What mean you by that? Tell me but——! - - NILS LYKKE. - - First your oath! The holiest, the most inviolable you can - swear. - - NILS STENSSON. - - That you shall have. Yonder on the wall hangs the picture of - the Holy Virgin—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - The Holy Virgin has grown infirm of late. Know you not what - the monk of Wittenberg maintains? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Fie! how can you heed the monk of Wittenberg? Peter Kanzler - says he is a heretic. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Well, let us not dispute the matter. Here can I show you a - saint will serve full well to make oath by. - - [_Points to a picture hanging on one of the panels._ - - Come hither,—swear that you will be silent till I myself - release your tongue—silent, as you hope for Heaven’s - salvation for yourself and for the man whose picture hangs - there. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Approaching the picture._] I swear it—so help me God’s - holy word! - - [_Falls back a step in amazement._ - - But—Christ save me——! - - NILS LYKKE. - - What now? - - NILS STENSSON. - - The picture—! Sure ’tis I myself! - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Tis old Sten Sture, even as he lived and moved in his - youthful years. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Sten Sture!—And the likeness—? And—said you not I spoke the - truth, when I called myself a Count’s son? Was’t not so? - - NILS LYKKE. - - So it was. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ah, I have it, I have it! I am—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - You are Sten Sture’s son, good Sir! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_With the quiet of amazement._] _I_ Sten Sture’s son! - - NILS LYKKE. - - On the mother’s side too your blood is noble. Peter Kanzler - spoke not the truth, if he said that a poor peasant woman - was your mother. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Oh strange! oh marvellous!—But can I believe——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - You may believe all that I tell you. But remember, all this - will be merely your ruin, if you should forget what you - swore to me by your father’s salvation. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Forget it? Nay, _that_ you may be sure I never shall.—But - you, to whom I have given my word,—tell me—who are you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - My name is Nils Lykke. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Surprised._] Nils Lykke? Surely not the Danish Councillor? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Even so. - - NILS STENSSON. - - And it was you—? ’Tis strange. How come you——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——to be receiving missives from Peter Kanzler? You marvel at - that? - - NILS STENSSON. - - I cannot deny it. He has ever named you as our bitterest - foe—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - And therefore you mistrust me? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Nay, not wholly that; but—well, the devil take musing! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Well said. Go but your own way, and you are as sure of the - halter as you are of a Count’s title and a chain of gold if - you trust to me. - - NILS STENSSON. - - That will I. My hand upon it, dear Sir! Do you but help me - with good counsel as long as there is need; when counsel - gives place to blows, I shall look to myself. - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Tis well. Come with me now into yonder chamber, and I will - tell you how all these matters stand, and what you have - still to do. - - [_Goes out to the right._ - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_With a glance at the picture._] _I_ Sten Sture’s son! Oh, - marvellous as a dream——! - - [_Goes out after_ NILS LYKKE. - - - - - ACT FOURTH - - _The Banquet Hall, as before, but without the supper-table._ - - BIÖRN, _the majordomo, enters carrying a lighted - branch-candlestick, and lighting in_ LADY INGER _and_ - OLAF SKAKTAVL _by the second door on the left._ LADY - INGER _has a bundle of papers in her hand._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ BIÖRN.] And you are sure my daughter had speech with - the knight, here in the hall? - - BIÖRN. - - [_Putting down the branch-candlestick on the table on the - left_.] Sure as may be. I met her even as she stepped into - the passage. - - LADY INGER. - - And she seemed greatly moved? Said you not so? - - BIÖRN. - - She looked all pale and disturbed. I asked if she were sick; - she answered not, but said: “Go to my mother and tell her - the knight sets forth from here ere daybreak; if she have - letters or messages for him, beg her not to delay him - needlessly.” And then she added somewhat that I heard not - rightly. - - LADY INGER. - - Did you not hear it at all? - - BIÖRN. - - It sounded to me as though she said:—“Almost I fear he has - already tarried too long at Östråt.” - - LADY INGER. - - And the knight? Where is he? - - BIÖRN. - - In his chamber belike, in the gate-wing. - - LADY INGER. - - It is well. What I have to send by him is ready. Go to him - and say I await him here in the hall. [BIÖRN _goes out to - the right._ - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Know you, Lady Inger,—’tis true that in such things I am - blind as a mole; yet seems it to me as though——h’m! - - LADY INGER. - - Well? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ——as though Nils Lykke bore a mind to your daughter. - - LADY INGER. - - Then ’twould seem you are not so blind after all; for I am - the more deceived if you be not right. Marked you not at the - supper-board how eagerly he listened to the least word I let - fall concerning Elina? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - He forgot both food and drink. - - LADY INGER. - - And our secret affairs as well. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay, and what is more—the papers from Peter Kanzler. - - LADY INGER. - - And from all this you conclude——? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - From all this I chiefly conclude that, as you know Nils - Lykke and the name he bears, especially in all that touches - women—— - - LADY INGER. - - ——I should be right glad to know him outside my gates? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay; and that as soon as may be. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Smiling._] Nay—the case is just the contrary, Olaf - Skaktavl! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - How mean you? - - LADY INGER. - - If things be as we both think, Nils Lykke must in nowise - depart from Östråt yet awhile. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Looks at her with disapproval._] Are you again embarked on - crooked courses, Lady Inger? What guile are you now - devising? Something that may increase your own power at the - cost of our—— - - LADY INGER. - - Oh this blindness, that makes you all do me such wrong! I - see well you think I purpose to make Nils Lykke my - daughter’s husband. Were such a thought in my mind, why had - I refused to take part in what is afoot in Sweden, when Nils - Lykke and all the Danish crew seem willing to support it? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Then if it be not your wish to win him and bind him to - you—what would you with him? - - LADY INGER. - - I will tell you in few words. In a letter to me, Nils Lykke - has spoken of the high fortune it were to be allied to our - house; and I do not say but, for a moment, I let myself - think of the matter. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay, see you! - - LADY INGER. - - To wed Nils Lykke to one of my house were doubtless a great - step toward stanching many discords in our land. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Meseems your daughter Merete’s marriage with Vinzents Lunge - might have taught you what comes of such a step. Scarce had - my lord gained firm footing among us, when he began to make - free with both our goods and our rights—— - - LADY INGER. - - I know it even too well, Olaf Skaktavl! But times there be - when my thoughts are manifold and strange. I cannot impart - them fully either to you or to any one else. Often I know - not the right course to choose. And yet—a second time to - make a Danish lord my son-in-law,—nought but the uttermost - need could drive me to that resource; and heaven be - praised—things have not yet come to _that_! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - I am no wiser than before, Lady Inger;—why would you keep - Nils Lykke at Östråt? - - LADY INGER. - - [_In a low voice._] Because I owe him an undying hate. Nils - Lykke has done me deadlier wrong than any other man. I - cannot tell you wherein it lies; but never shall I rest till - I am avenged on him. See you not now? Say that Nils Lykke - were to love my daughter—as meseems were like enough. I will - persuade him to tarry here; he shall learn to know Elina - well. She is both fair and wise.—Ah, if he should one day - come before me, with hot love in his heart, to beg for her - hand! Then—to chase him away like a dog; to drive him off - with jibes and scorn; to make it known over all the land - that Nils Lykke had come a-wooing to Östråt in vain—! I tell - you I would give ten years of my life but to see that day! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - In faith and truth, Inger Gyldenlöve—is _this_ your purpose - towards him? - - LADY INGER. - - This and nought else, as sure as God lives! Trust me, Olaf - Skaktavl, I mean honestly by my countrymen; but I am in - nowise my own mistress. Things there be that must be kept - hidden, or ’twere my death-blow. But let me once be secure - on _that_ side, and you shall see if I have forgotten the - oath I swore by Knut Alfson’s bier. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Shakes her by the hand._] Thanks for those words! I am - loath indeed to think evil of you.—Yet, touching your design - towards this knight, methinks ’tis a venturesome game you - would play. What if you had misreckoned? What if your - daughter—? ’Tis said no woman can stand against this subtle - devil. - - LADY INGER. - - My daughter? Think you that she—? Nay, have no fear of that; - I know Elina better. All she has heard of his renown has but - made her hate him the more. You saw with your own eyes—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay, but—a woman’s mind is shifting ground to build on. - ’Twere best you looked well before you. - - LADY INGER. - - That will I, be sure; I will watch them narrowly. But even - were he to succeed in luring her into his toils, I have but - to whisper two words in her ear, and—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - What then? - - LADY INGER. - - ——She will shrink from him as though he came straight from - the foul Tempter himself. - - Hist, Olaf Skaktavl! Here he comes. Now be cautious. - - [NILS LYKKE _enters by the foremost door on the right._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Approaches_ LADY INGER _courteously._] My noble hostess - has summoned me. - - LADY INGER. - - I have learned through my daughter that you are minded to - leave us to-night. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Even so, to my sorrow;—since my business at Östråt is over. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Not before I have the papers. - - NILS LYKKE. - - True, true. I had well-nigh forgot the weightiest part of my - errand. ’Twas the fault of our noble hostess. With such - gracious skill did she keep her guests in talk at table—— - - LADY INGER. - - That you no longer remembered what had brought you hither? I - rejoice to hear it; for that was my design. Methought that - if my guest, Nils Lykke, were to feel at his ease in Östråt, - he must forget—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - What, lady? - - LADY INGER. - - ——First of all his errand—and then all that had gone before - it. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To_ OLAF SKAKTAVL, _as he takes out the packet and hands - it to him._] The papers from Peter Kanzler. You will find in - them a full account of our partizans in Sweden. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - It is well. - - [_Sits down by the table on the left, where he opens - the packet and examines its contents._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - And now, Lady Inger Gyldenlöve,—I know not that there is - aught else for me to do here. - - LADY INGER. - - Had it been things of state alone that brought us together, - you might be right. But I should be loath to think so. - - NILS LYKKE. - - You would say——? - - LADY INGER. - - I would say that ’twas not alone as a Danish Councillor or - as the ally of Peter Kanzler that Nils Lykke came to be my - guest.—Do I err in fancying that somewhat you may have heard - down in Denmark may have made you curious to know more of - the Lady of Östråt. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Far be it from me to deny—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Turning over the papers._] Strange. No letter. - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——Lady Inger Gyldenlöve’s fame is all too widely spread that - I should not long have been eager to see her face to face. - - LADY INGER. - - So I thought. But what, then, is an hour’s jesting talk at - the supper-table? Let us try to sweep away all that has till - now lain between us; it may well come to pass that the Nils - Lykke I know may wipe out the grudge I bore the one I knew - not. Prolong your stay here but a few days, Sir Councillor! - I dare not persuade Olaf Skaktavl thereto, since his secret - charge in Sweden calls him hence. But as for you, doubtless - your sagacity has placed all things beforehand in such train - that your presence can scarce be needed. Trust me, your time - shall not pass tediously with us; at least you will find - both me and my daughter heartily disposed to do all in our - power to pleasure you. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I doubt neither your goodwill towards me nor your - daughter’s; of that I have had ample proof. And I trust you - will not doubt that my presence elsewhere must be vitally - needful, since, despite of all, I must declare my longer - stay at Östråt impossible. - - LADY INGER. - - Is it even so!—Know you, Sir Councillor, were I evilly - minded, I might fancy you had come to Östråt to try a fall - with me, and that, having lost, you cared not to linger on - the battlefield among the witnesses of your defeat. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Smiling._] There might be some show of reason for such a - reading of the case; but sure it is that as yet _I_ hold not - the battle lost. - - LADY INGER. - - However that may be, it might at any rate be retrieved, if - you would tarry some days with us. You see yourself, I am - still halting and wavering at the parting of the - ways,—persuading my redoubtable assailant not to quit the - field.—Well, to speak plainly, the thing is this: your - alliance with the disaffected in Sweden still seems to me - somewhat—how shall I call it?—somewhat miraculous, Sir - Councillor! I tell you this frankly, dear Sir! The thought - that has moved the King’s Council to this secret step is in - truth most politic; but ’tis strangely at variance with the - deeds of certain of your countrymen in bygone years. Be not - offended, then, if my trust in your fair promises needs to - be somewhat strengthened ere I can place my whole welfare in - your hands. - - NILS LYKKE. - - A longer stay at Östråt would scarce help towards that end; - since I purpose not to make any further effort to shake your - resolve. - - LADY INGER. - - Then must I pity you from my heart. Ay, Sir Councillor—’tis - true I stand here an unfriended widow; yet may you trust my - word when I foretell that this visit to Östråt will strew - your future path with thorns. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_With a smile._] Is that your forecast, Lady Inger? - - LADY INGER. - - Truly it is! What can one say, dear Sir? ’Tis an age of - tattling tongues. Many a scurril knave will make jeering - rhymes at your expense. Ere half a year is out, you will be - all men’s fable; people will stop and gaze after you on the - high roads; ’twill be: “Look, look; there rides Sir Nils - Lykke, that fared north to Östråt to trap Inger Gyldenlöve, - and was caught in his own nets.”—Softly, softly, Sir Knight, - why so impatient! ’Tis not that _I_ think so; I do but - forecast the thoughts of the malicious and evil-minded; and - of them, alas! there are many.— Ay, ’tis shame; but so it - is—you will reap nought but mockery—mockery, because a woman - was craftier than you. “Like a cunning fox,” men will say, - “he crept into Östråt; like a beaten hound he slunk - away.”—And one thing more: think you not that Peter Kanzler - and his friends will forswear your alliance, when ’tis known - that _I_ venture not to fight under a standard borne by you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - You speak wisely, lady! Wherefore to secure me from - mockery—and not to endanger the alliance with all our dear - friends in Sweden—I must needs—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_Hastily._] ——prolong your stay at Östråt. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Who has been listening._] He is in the trap! - - NILS LYKKE. - - No, my noble lady;—I must needs bring you to terms within - this hour. - - LADY INGER. - - But what if you should fail? - - NILS LYKKE. - - I shall _not_ fail. - - LADY INGER. - - You lack not confidence, it seems. - - NILS LYKKE. - - What shall be the wager that you make not common cause with - myself and Peter Kanzler? - - LADY INGER. - - Östråt Castle against your knee-buckles! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Slaps his breast and cries:_] Olaf Skaktavl—here stands - the master of Östråt! - - LADY INGER. - - Sir Councillor——! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Rises from the table._] What now? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To_ LADY INGER.] I accept not the wager; for in a moment - you will gladly give Östråt Castle, and more to boot, to be - freed from the snare wherein not I but you are tangled. - - LADY INGER. - - Your jest, Sir, grows a vastly merry one. - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Twill be merrier yet—at least for me. You boast that you - have overreached me. You threaten to heap on me all men’s - scorn and mockery. Ah, beware that you stir not up my - vengefulness; for with two words I can bring you to your - knees at my feet. - - LADY INGER. - - Ha-ha——! - - [_Stops suddenly, as if struck by a foreboding._ - - And these two words, Nils Lykke?—these two words——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——The secret of Sten Sture’s son and yours. - - LADY INGER. - - [_With a shriek._] Oh, God in heaven——! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Inger Gyldenlöve’s son! What say you? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Half kneeling to_ NILS LYKKE.] Mercy! oh, be merciful——! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Raises her up._] Collect yourself, and let us talk - together calmly. - - LADY INGER. - - [_In a low voice, as though bewildered._] Did you hear it, - Olaf Skaktavl? Or was it but a dream? Heard you what he - said? - - NILS LYKKE. - - It was no dream, Lady Inger! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Clasping her hands._] And you know it! You,—you!—Where is - he then? Where have you got him? What would you do with him? - [_Screams._] Do not kill him, Nils Lykke! Give him back to - me! Do not kill my child! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ah, I begin to understand—— - - LADY INGER. - - And this fear—this torturing dread! Through all these weary - years it has been ever with me——and then all fails at last, - and I must bear this agony!—Oh Lord my God, is it right of - thee? Was it for this thou gavest him to me? - - [_Controls herself and says with forced composure:_ - - Nils Lykke—tell me _one_ thing. Where have you got him? - Where is he? - - NILS LYKKE. - - With his foster-father. - - LADY INGER. - - Still with his foster-father. Oh, that merciless man—! For - ever to deny me—. But it _must_ not go on thus! Help me, - Olaf Skaktavl! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - I? - - NILS LYKKE. - - There will be no need, if only you—— - - LADY INGER. - - Hearken, Sir Councillor! What you know you shall know - thoroughly. And you too, my old and faithful friend! - - Listen then. To-night you bade me call to mind that fatal - day when Knut Alfson was slain at Oslo. You bade me remember - the promise I made as I stood by his corpse amid the bravest - men in Norway. I was scarce full-grown then; but I felt - God’s strength in me, and methought, as many have thought - since, that the Lord himself had set his mark on me and - chosen me to fight in the forefront for my country’s cause. - - Was it pride of heart? Or was it a calling from on high? - That I have never clearly known. But woe to whoso is charged - with a mighty task. - - For seven years I fear not to say that I kept my promise - faithfully. I stood by my countrymen in all their sufferings - and their need. Playmates of mine, all over the land, were - wives and mothers now. I alone could give ear to no - wooer—not to one. That you know best, Olaf Skaktavl! - - Then I saw Sten Sture for the first time. Fairer man had - never met my sight. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ah, now it grows clear to me! Sten Sture was then in Norway - on a secret errand. We Danes were not to know that he wished - your friends well. - - LADY INGER. - - In the guise of a mean serving-man he lived a whole winter - under one roof with me. - - That winter I thought less and less of the country’s - weal.——So fair a man had I never seen—and I had lived - well-nigh five-and-twenty years. - - Next autumn Sten Sture came once more; and when he departed - again he took with him, in all secrecy, a little child. - ’Twas not folk’s evil tongues I feared; but our cause would - have suffered had it got abroad that Sten Sture stood so - near to me. - - The child was given to Peter Kanzler to rear. I waited for - better times, that were soon to come. They never came. Sten - Sture took a wife two years later in Sweden, and, when he - died, he left a widow—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ——And with her a lawful heir to his name and rights. - - LADY INGER. - - Time after time I wrote to Peter Kanzler beseeching him to - give me back my child. But he was ever deaf to my prayers. - “Cast in your lot with us once for all,” he said, “and I - send your son back to Norway; not before.” But ’twas even - that I dared not do. We of the disaffected party were then - ill regarded by many timorous folk in the land. Had these - learnt how things stood—oh, I know it!—to cripple the mother - they had gladly meted to the child the fate that would have - been King Christiern’s had he not saved himself by - flight.[20] - - But, besides that, the Danes, too, were active. They spared - neither threats nor promises to force me to join them. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Twas but reason. The eyes of all men were fixed on you as - on the vane that should show them how to shape their course. - - LADY INGER. - - Then came Herlof Hyttefad’s rising. Do you remember that - time, Olaf Skaktavl? Was it not as though a new spring had - dawned over the whole land! Mighty voices summoned me to - come forth;—yet I dared not. I stood doubting—far from the - strife—in my lonely castle. At times it seemed as though the - Lord God himself were calling me; but then would come the - killing dread again to benumb my will. “Who will - win?”—_that_ was the question that was ever ringing in my - ears. - - ’Twas but a short spring that had come to Norway. Herlof - Hyttefad, and many more with him, were broken on the wheel - during the months that followed. None could call me to - account; yet there lacked not covert threats from Denmark. - What if they knew the secret? At last methought they _must_ - know; I knew not how else to understand their words. - - ’Twas even in that time of agony that Gyldenlöve, the High - Steward, came hither and sought me in marriage. Let any - mother anguished for her child think herself in my place!—A - month after, I was the High Steward’s wife—and homeless in - the hearts of my countrymen. - - Then came the quiet years. No one raised his head any more. - Our masters might grind us down even as heavily as they - listed. There were times when I loathed myself; for what had - I to do? Nought but to endure terror and scorn and bring - forth daughters into the world. My daughters! God must - forgive me if I have had no mother’s heart towards them. My - wifely duties were as serfdom to me; how then could I love - my daughters? Oh, how different with my son! _He_ was the - child of my very soul. He was the one thing that brought to - mind the time when I was a woman and nought but a woman.—And - him they had taken from me! He was growing up among - strangers, who might, mayhap, be sowing in him the seed of - corruption! Olaf Skaktavl—had I wandered, like you, on the - lonely hills, hunted and forsaken, in winter and storm—if I - had but held my child in my arms,—trust me, I had not - sorrowed and wept so sore as I have sorrowed and wept for - him from his birth even to this hour! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - There is my hand. I have judged you too hardly, Lady Inger! - Command me even as before; I will obey.—Ay, by all the - saints, I know what it is to sorrow for a child. - - LADY INGER. - - Yours was slain by men of blood. But what is death to the - restless terror of all these long years? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Mark, then—’tis in your power to end this terror. You have - but to make peace between the jarring factions, and neither - will think of seizing on your child as a pledge of your - faith. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To herself._] This is the vengeance of Heaven. [_Looks at - him._] In one word, what do you demand? - - NILS LYKKE. - - I demand first that you shall call the people of the - northern districts to arms, in support of the disaffected in - Sweden. - - LADY INGER. - - And next——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——that you do your best to advance young Count Sture’s - ancestral claim to the throne of Sweden. - - LADY INGER. - - His? You demand that I—— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Softly._] It is the wish of many Swedes, and ’twould serve - our turn too. - - NILS LYKKE. - - You hesitate, lady? You tremble for your son’s safety. What - better can you wish than to see his half-brother on the - throne? - - LADY INGER. - - [_In thought._] True—true—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Looks at her sharply._] Unless there be other plans - afoot—— - - LADY INGER. - - What mean you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Inger Gyldenlöve might have a mind to be—a king’s mother. - - LADY INGER. - - No, no! Give me back my child, and let who will have the - crowns. - - But know you so surely that Count Sture is willing——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Of that he will himself assure you. - - LADY INGER. - - Himself? And when? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Even now. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - How now? - - LADY INGER. - - What say you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - In one word, Count Sture is in Östråt. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Here? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To_ Lady Inger.] You have doubtless heard that another - rode through the gate along with me? The Count was my - attendant. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Softly._] I am in his power. I have no longer any choice. - - [_Looks at him and says:_ - - ’Tis well, Sir Councillor—you shall have full assurance of - my support. - - NILS LYKKE. - - In writing? - - LADY INGER. - - As you will. - - [_Goes to the table on the left, sits down, and - takes writing materials from the drawer._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside, standing by the table on the right._] At last, - then, I win! - - LADY INGER. - - [_After a moment’s thought, turns suddenly in her chair to_ - OLAF SKAKTAVL _and whispers._] Olaf Skaktavl—I am certain of - it now—Nils Lykke is a traitor! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Softly._] What? You think——? - - LADY INGER. - - He has treachery in his heart. - - [_Lays the paper before her and dips the pen in the - ink._ - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - And yet you would give him a written promise that may be - your ruin? - - LADY INGER. - - Hush; leave me to act. Nay, wait and listen first——[_Talks - with him in a whisper._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly, watching them._] Ah, take counsel together as much - as ye list! All danger is over now. With her written consent - in my pocket, I can denounce her whenever I please. A secret - message to Jens Bielke this very night—. I tell him but the - truth—that the young Count Sture is not at Östråt. And then - to-morrow, when the road is open—to Trondhiem with my young - friend, and thence by ship to Copenhagen with him as my - prisoner. Once we have him safe in the castle-tower, we can - dictate to Lady Inger what terms we will. And I—? After - this, methinks, the King will scarce place the French - mission in other hands than mine. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Still whispering to_ OLAF SKAKTAVL.] Well, you understand - me? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ay, fully. Let us make the venture, even as you will. [_Goes - out by the back, to the right._ - - [NILS STENSSON _comes in by the first door on the - right, unseen by_ LADY INGER, _who has begun to - write._ - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_In a low voice._] Sir Knight,—Sir Knight! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Moves towards him._] Rash boy! What would you here? Said I - not you should wait within until I called you? - - NILS STENSSON. - - How could I? Now you have told me that Inger Gyldenlöve is - my mother, I thirst more than ever to see her face to face—— - - Oh, it is she! How proud and high her mien! Even thus did I - ever picture her. Fear not, dear Sir,—I shall do nought - rashly. Since I have learnt this secret, I feel, as it were, - older and wiser. I will no longer be wild and heedless; I - will be even as other well-born youths.—Tell me,—knows she - that I am here? Surely you have prepared her? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, sure enough; but—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - Well? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ——She will not own you for her son. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Will not own me? But she is my mother.—Oh, if it be that she - doubts _that_—[_takes out a ring which he wears on a cord - round his neck_]—show her this ring. I have worn it since my - earliest childhood; she must surely know its history. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Hide the ring, man! Hide it, I say! - - You mistake me. Lady Inger doubts not at all that you are - her child; but—ay, look about you; look at all this wealth; - look at these mighty forefathers and kinsmen whose pictures - deck the walls both high and low; look lastly at herself, - the haughty dame, used to bear sway as the first noblewoman - in the kingdom. Think you it can be to her mind to take a - poor ignorant youth by the hand before all men’s eyes and - say: Behold my son! - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, doubtless you are right. I am poor and ignorant. I have - nought to offer her in return for what I crave. Oh, never - have I felt my poverty weigh on me till this hour! But tell - me—what think you I should do to win her favour? Tell me, - dear Sir; sure you must know! - - NILS LYKKE. - - You must win your father’s kingdom. But until that may be, - look well that you wound not her ears by hinting at kinship - or the like. She will bear her as though she believed you to - be the real Count Sture, until you have made yourself worthy - to be called her son. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Oh, but tell me——! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Hush; hush! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Rises and hands him a paper._] Sir Knight—here is my - promise. - - NILS LYKKE. - - I thank you. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Notices_ NILS STENSSON.] Ah,—this young man is——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ay, Lady Inger, he is Count Sture. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Aside, looks at him stealthily._] Feature for feature;—ay, - by God,—it is Sten Sture’s son! - - [_Approaches him and says with cold courtesy:_ - - I bid you welcome under my roof, Count! It rests with you - whether or not we shall bless this meeting a year hence. - - NILS STENSSON. - - With me? Oh, do but tell me what I must do! Trust me, I have - both courage and will—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Listens uneasily._] What is this noise and uproar, Lady - Inger? There are people pressing hitherward. What does this - mean? - - LADY INGER. - - [_In a loud voice._] ’Tis the spirits awaking! - - [OLAF SKAKTAVL, EINAR HUK, BIÖRN, FINN, _and a - number of_ PEASANTS _and_ RETAINERS _come in - from the back, on the right._ - - THE PEASANTS AND RETAINERS. - - Hail to Lady Inger Gyldenlöve! - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ OLAF SKAKTAVL.] Have you told them what is afoot? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - I have told them all they need to know. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To the_ CROWD.] Ay, now, my faithful house-folk and - peasants, now must ye arm you as best you can and will. That - which earlier to-night I forbade you, ye have now my fullest - leave to do. And here I present to you the young Count - Sture, the coming ruler of Sweden—and Norway too, if God - will it so. - - THE WHOLE CROWD. - - Hail to him! Hail to Count Sture! - - [_General excitement. The_ PEASANTS _and_ RETAINERS - _choose out weapons and put on breastplates and - helmets, amid great noise_. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly and uneasily._] The spirits awaking, she said? I - but feigned to conjure up the devil of revolt—’twere a - cursed spite if he got the upper hand of us. - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ NILS STENSSON.] Here I give you the first earnest of - our service—thirty mounted men, to follow you as a - bodyguard. Trust me—ere you reach the frontier many hundreds - will have ranged themselves under my banner and yours. Go, - then, and God be with you! - - NILS STENSSON. - - Thanks,—Inger Gyldenlöve! Thanks—and be sure you shall never - have cause to shame you for—for Count Sture! If you see me - again, I shall have won my father’s kingdom. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] Ay, _if_ she see you again! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - The horses wait, good fellows! Are ye ready——? - - THE PEASANTS. - - Ay, ay, ay! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Uneasily_, to LADY INGER.] What?, You mean not to-night, - even now——? - - LADY INGER. - - This very moment, Sir Knight! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Nay, nay, impossible! - - LADY INGER. - - I have said it. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Softly, to_ NILS STENSSON.] Obey her not! - - NILS STENSSON. - - How can I do aught else? I _will_; I _must_! - - NILS LYKKE. - - But ’tis your certain ruin—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - What then! _Her_ must I obey in all things—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_With authority._] And _me_? - - NILS STENSSON. - - I shall keep my word; be sure of that. The secret shall not - pass my lips till you yourself release me. But she is my - mother! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] And Jens Bielke in wait on the road! Damnation! - He will snatch the prize out of my fingers—— - - [_To_ LADY INGER. - - Wait till to-morrow! - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ NILS STENSSON.] Count Sture—do you obey me or not? - - NILS STENSSON. - - To horse! - - [_Goes up towards the background._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] Unhappy boy! He knows not what he does. - - [_To_ LADY INGER. - - Well, since so it must be,—farewell! - - [_Bows hastily, and begins to move away._ - - Lady Inger. - - [_Detains him._] Nay, stay! Not so, Sir Knight,—not so! - - NILS LYKKE. - - What mean you? - - LADY INGER. - - [_In a low voice._] Nils Lykke—you are a traitor! Hush! Let - no one see there is discord in the camp of the leaders. You - have won Peter Kanzler’s trust by some devilish wile that as - yet is dark to me. You have forced me to rebellious acts—not - to help our cause, but to further your own plots, whatever - they may be. I can draw back no more. But think not - therefore that you have conquered! I shall know how to make - you harmless—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Lays his hand involuntarily on his sword._] - - Lady Inger! - - LADY INGER. - - Be calm, Sir Councillor! Your life is safe. But you come not - outside the gates of Östråt before victory is ours. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Death and destruction! - - LADY INGER. - - It boots not to resist. You come not from this place. So - rest you quiet; ’tis your wisest course. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] Ah,—I am overreached. She has been craftier - than I. [_A thought strikes him._] But if I yet——? - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ OLAF SKAKTAVL.] Ride with Count Sture’s troops to the - frontier; then without pause to Peter Kanzler, and bring me - back my child. Now has he no longer any plea for keeping - from me what is my own. - - [_Adds, as_ OLAF SKAKTAVL _is going:_ - - Wait; a token—. He that wears Sten Sture’s ring, he is my - son. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - By all the saints, you shall have him! - - LADY INGER. - - Thanks,—thanks, my faithful friend! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To_ FINN, _whom he has beckoned to him unobserved, and - with whom he has been whispering._] Good—now contrive to - slip out. Let none see you. The Swedes are in ambush half a - league hence. Tell the commander that Count Sture is dead. - The young man you see there must on no account be touched. - Tell the commander so. Tell him the boy’s life is worth - thousands to me. - - FINN. - - It shall be done. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Who has meanwhile been watching_ NILS LYKKE.] And now go, - all of you, and God be with you! [_Points to_ NILS LYKKE.] - This noble knight cannot find it in his heart to leave his - friends at Östråt so hastily. He will abide here with me - till the tidings of your victory arrive. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_To himself._] Devil! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Seizes his hand._] Trust me—you shall not have long to - wait! - - NILS LYKKE. - - It is well; it is well! [_Aside._] All may yet be saved. If - only my message reach Jens Bielke in time—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ EINAR HUK, _the bailiff, pointing to_ FINN.] And let - _that_ man be placed under close guard in the castle - dungeon. - - FINN. - - Me? - - THE BAILIFF AND THE SERVANTS. - - Finn! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside._] My last anchor gone! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Imperatively._] To the dungeon with him! - - [EINAR HUK, BIÖRN, _and a couple of the - house-servants lead_ FINN _out to the left_. - - ALL THE REST. - - [_Except_ NILS LYKKE, _rushing out to the right._] Away! To - horse,—to horse! Hail to Lady Inger Gyldenlöve! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Passing close to_ NILS LYKKE _as she goes out after the - others._] Who wins? - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Remains alone._] Who? Ay, woe to you;—your victory will - cost you dear. _I_ wash my hands of it. ’Tis not _I_ that am - murdering him. - - But my prey is escaping me none the less; and the revolt - will grow and spread!—Ah, ’tis a foolhardy, a frantic game I - have here taken in hand! - - [_Listens at the window._. - - There they ride clattering out through the gateway.—Now ’tis - closed after them—and I am left here a prisoner. - - No way of escape! Within half-an-hour the Swedes will be - upon him. He has thirty well-armed horsemen with him. ’Twill - be life or death. - - But if, after all, they should take him alive?—Were I but - free, I could overtake the Swedes ere they reach the - frontier, and make them deliver him up. [_Goes towards the - window in the background and looks out._] Damnation! Guards - outside on every hand. Can there be no way of escape? - - [_Comes quickly forward again; suddenly stops and - listens._ - - What is that? Music and singing. It seems to come from - Elina’s chamber. Ay, ’tis she that is singing. Then she is - still awake—— - - [_A thought seems to strike him._ - - Elina!—Ah, if _that_ could be! Were it possible to—And why - should I not? Am I not still myself? Says not the song:— - - Fair maidens a-many they sigh and they pine: - “Ah God, that Nils Lykke were mine, mine, mine.” - - And she—? ——Elina Gyldenlöve shall set me free! - - [_Goes quickly but stealthily towards the first door - on the left._ - - - - - ACT FIFTH - - - _The Banquet Hall. It is still night. The hall is but dimly - lighted by a branch-candlestick on the table, in front, - on the right._ - - LADY INGER _is sitting by the table, deep in thought._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_After a pause._] They call me keen-witted beyond all - others in the land. I believe they are right. The - keenest-witted—No one knows how I became so. For more than - twenty years I have fought to save my child. _That_ is the - key to the riddle. Ay, that sharpens the wits! - - My wits? Where have they flown to-night? What has become of - my forethought? There is a ringing and rushing in my ears. I - see shapes before me, so lifelike that methinks I could lay - hold on them. - - [_Springs up._ - - Lord Jesus—what is this? Am I no longer mistress of my - reason? Is it to come to that——? - - [_Presses her clasped hands over her head; sits down - again, and says more calmly:_ - - Nay, ’tis nought. ’Twill pass. There is no fear;—it will - pass. - - How peaceful it is in the hall to-night! No threatening - looks from forefathers or kinsfolk. No need to turn their - faces to the wall. - - [_Rises again._ - - Ay, ’twas well that I took heart at last. We shall - conquer;—and then am I at the goal of all my longings. I - shall have my child again. - - [_Takes up the light as if to go, but stops and says - musingly:_ - - At the goal? The goal? To have him back? Is that all?—is - there nought further? - - [_Sets the light down on the table._ - - That heedless word that Nils Lykke threw forth at random—. - How could he see my unborn thought? - - [_More softly._ - - A king’s mother? A king’s mother, he said—And why not? Have - not my fathers before me ruled as kings, even though they - bore not the kingly name? Has not _my_ son as good a title - as the other to the rights of the house of Sture? In the - sight of God he has—if so be there is justice in Heaven. - - And in an hour of terror I have signed away his rights. I - have recklessly squandered them, as a ransom for his - freedom. - - If they could be recovered?—Would Heaven be angered, if I—? - Would it call down fresh troubles on my head if I were to—? - Who knows;—who knows! It may be safest to refrain. [_Takes - up the light again._] I shall have my child again. _That_ - must content me. I will try to rest. All these desperate - thoughts,—I will sleep them away. - - [_Goes towards the back, but stops in the middle of - the hall, and says broodingly:_ - - A king’s mother! - - [_Goes slowly out at the back, to the left._ - - [_After a short pause, NILS LYKKE and ELINA - GYLDENLÖVE enter noiselessly by the first door - on the left. NILS LYKKE has a small lantern in - his hand._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Throws the light from his lantern around, so as to search - the room._] All is still. I must begone. - - ELINA. - - Oh, let me look but once more into your eyes, before you - leave me. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Embraces her._] Elina! - - ELINA. - - [_After a short pause._] Will you come nevermore to Östråt? - - NILS LYKKE. - - How can you doubt that I will come? Are you not henceforth - my betrothed?—But will _you_ be true to _me_, Elina? Will - you not forget me ere we meet again? - - ELINA. - - Do you ask if I _will_ be true? Have I any will left then? - Have I power to be untrue to you, even if I would?—You came - by night; you knocked upon my door;—and I opened to you. You - spoke to me. What was it you said? You gazed in my eyes. - What was the mystic might that turned my brain, and lured me - as into a magic net? [_Hides her face on his shoulder._] Oh, - look not on me, Nils Lykke! You must not look upon me after - this—True, say you? Do you not own me? I am yours;—I _must_ - be yours—to all eternity. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Now, by my knightly honour, ere the year be past, you shall - sit as my wife in the hall of my fathers! - - ELINA. - - No vows, Nils Lykke! No oaths to me. - - NILS LYKKE. - - What ails you? Why do you shake your head so mournfully? - - ELINA. - - Because I know that the same soft words wherewith you turned - my brain, you have whispered to so many a one before. Nay, - nay, be not angry, my beloved! In nowise do I reproach you, - as I did while yet I knew you not. Now I understand how high - above all others is your goal. How can love be aught to - _you_ but a pastime, or woman but a toy? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Elina,—hear me! - - ELINA. - - As I grew up, your name was ever in my ears. I hated the - name, for meseemed that all women were dishonoured by your - life. And yet,—how strange!—when I built up in my dreams the - life that should be mine, you were ever my hero, though I - knew it not. Now I understand it all. What was it that I - felt? It was a foreboding, a mysterious longing for you, you - only one—for you that were one day to come and reveal to me - all the glory of life. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Aside, putting down the lantern on the table._] How is it - with me? This dizzy fascination—. If this it be to love, - then have I never known it till this hour.—Is there not yet - time—? Oh horror—Lucia! [_Sinks into the chair._ - - ELINA. - - What is amiss with you? So heavy a sigh—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - O, ’tis nought,—nought! - - Elina,—now will I confess all to you. I have beguiled many - with both words and glances; I have said to many a one what - I whispered to you this night. But trust me—— - - ELINA. - - Hush! No more of that. My love is no exchange for that you - give me. No, no; I love you because your every glance - commands it like a king’s decree. [_Lies down at his feet._ - Oh, let me once more stamp that kingly mandate deep into my - soul, though well I know it stands imprinted there for all - time and eternity. - - Dear God—how little I have known myself! ’Twas but to-night - I said to my mother: “My pride is my life.” And what is now - my pride? Is it to know my countrymen free, or my house held - in honour throughout many lands? Oh, no, no! My love is my - pride. The little dog is proud when he may sit by his - master’s feet and eat bread-crumbs from his hand. Even so am - I proud, so long as I may sit at your feet, while your looks - and your words nourish me with the bread of life. See, - therefore, I say to you, even as I said but now to my - mother: “My love is my life;” for therein lies all my pride, - now and evermore. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Raises her up on his lap._] Nay, nay—not at my feet, but - at my side is your place,—how high soever fate may exalt me. - Ay, Elina—you have led me into a better path; and should it - one day be granted me to atone by a deed of fame for the - sins of my reckless youth, then shall the honour be yours - and mine together. - - ELINA. - - Ah, you speak as though I were still that Elina who but this - evening flung down the flowers at your feet. - - I have read in my books of the many-coloured life in far-off - lands. To the winding of horns, the knight rides forth into - the greenwood, with his falcon on his wrist. Even so do you - go your way through life;—your name rings out before you - whithersoever you fare.—All that _I_ desire of the glory, is - to rest like the falcon on your arm. Like him was I, too, - blind to light and life, till you loosed the hood from my - eyes and set me soaring high over the tree-tops.—But trust - me—bold as my flight may be, yet shall I ever turn back to - my cage. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Rises._] Then will I bid defiance to the past! See - now;—take this ring, and be _mine_ before God and - men—_mine_,—ay, though it should trouble the dreams of the - dead. - - ELINA. - - You make me tremble. What is it that——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - ’Tis nought. Come, let me place the ring on your - finger.—Even so—now are you my betrothed! - - ELINA. - - _I_ Nils Lykke’s bride! It seems but a dream, all that has - befallen this night. Oh, but so fair a dream! My breast is - so light. No longer is there bitterness and hatred in my - soul. I will atone to all whom I have wronged. I have been - unloving to my mother. To-morrow will I go to her; she must - forgive me where I have erred. - - NILS LYKKE. - - And give her consent to our bond. - - ELINA. - - That will she. Oh, I am sure she will. My mother is kind; - all the world is kind;—I can no longer feel hatred for any - living soul—save _one_. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Save _one_? - - ELINA. - - Ah, ’tis a mournful history. I had a sister—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - Lucia? - - ELINA. - - Did you know Lucia? - - NILS LYKKE. - - No, no; I have but heard her name. - - ELINA. - - She too gave her heart to a knight. He betrayed her;—now she - is in Heaven. - - NILS LYKKE. - - And you—— - - ELINA. - - I hate him. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Hate him not! If there be mercy in your heart, forgive him - his sin. Trust me, he bears his punishment in his own - breast. - - ELINA. - - Him will I never forgive! I _cannot_, even if I would; for I - have sworn so dear an oath—— - - [_Listening._ - - Hush! Can you hear——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - What? Where? - - ELINA. - - Without; far off. The noise of many horsemen on the - high-road. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ah, ’tis _they_! And I had forgotten—! They are coming - hither. Then is the danger great! I must begone! - - ELINA. - - But whither? Oh, Nils Lykke, what are you hiding——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Tomorrow, Elina—; for as God lives, I will return - tomorrow.—Quickly now—where is the secret passage whereof - you told me? - - ELINA. - - Through the grave-vault. See,—here is the trap-door—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - The grave-vault! [_To himself._] No matter, he _must_ be - saved! - - ELINA. - - [_By the window._] The horsemen have reached the gate—— - [_Hands him the lantern._ - - NILS LYKKE. - - Oh, then—— [_Begins to descend._ - - ELINA. - - Go forward along the passage till you reach the coffin with - the death’s-head and the black cross; it is Lucia’s—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Climbs back hastily and shuts the trapdoor._] Lucia’s! - Pah——! - - ELINA. - - What said you? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Nay, nothing. ’Twas the air of the graves that made me - dizzy. - - ELINA. - - Hark; they are hammering at the gate! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Lets the lantern fall._] Ah! too late——! - - [BIÖRN _enters hurriedly from the right, carrying a - light._ - - ELINA. - - [_Goes towards him._] What is amiss, Biörn? What is it? - - BIÖRN. - - An ambuscade! Count Sture—— - - ELINA. - - Count Sture? What of him? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Have they killed him? - - BIÖRN. - - [_To Elina._] Where is your mother? - - TWO RETAINERS. - - [_Rushing in from the right._] Lady Inger! Lady Inger! - - [LADY INGER GYLDENLÖVE _enters by the furthest back - door on the left, with a branch-candlestick, - lighted, in her hand, and says quickly:_ - - LADY INGER. - - I know all. Down with you to the courtyard! Keep the gate - open for our friends, but closed against all others! - - [_Puts down the candlestick on the table to the - left._ BIÖRN _and the two_ RETAINERS _go out - again to the right._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_To_ NILS LYKKE.] So _that_ was the trap, Sir Councillor! - - NILS LYKKE. - - Inger Gyldenlöve, believe me——! - - LADY INGER. - - An ambuscade that was to snap him up as soon as you had - secured the promise that should destroy me! - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Takes out the paper and tears it to pieces._] There is - your promise. I keep nothing that can bear witness against - you. - - LADY INGER. - - What is this? - - NILS LYKKE. - - From this hour will I put your thoughts of me to shame. If I - have sinned against you,—by Heaven I will strive to repair - my crime. But now I _must_ out, if I have to hew my way - through the gate!—Elina—tell your mother all!—And you, Lady - Inger, let our reckoning be forgotten! Be generous—and - silent! Trust me, ere dawn of day you shall owe me a life’s - gratitude. [_Goes out quickly to the right._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Looks after him with exultation._] ’Tis well! I understand - him. - - [_Turns to_ ELINA. - - Nils Lykke—? Well——? - - ELINA. - - He knocked upon my door, and set this ring upon my finger. - - LADY INGER. - - And from his soul he holds you dear? - - ELINA. - - He has said so, and I believe him. - - LADY INGER. - - Bravely done, Elina! Ha-ha, Sir Knight, now is it my turn! - - ELINA. - - My mother—you are so strange. Ah, yes—I know—’tis my - unloving ways that have angered you. - - LADY INGER. - - Not so, dear Elina! You are an obedient child. You have - opened your door to him; you have hearkened to his soft - words. I know full well what it must have cost you; for I - know your hatred—— - - ELINA. - - But, my mother—— - - LADY INGER. - - Hush! We have played into each other’s hands. What wiles did - you use, my subtle daughter? I saw the love shine out of his - eyes. Hold him fast now! Draw the net closer and closer - about him; and then—Ah, Elina, if we could but rend asunder - his perjured heart within his breast! - - ELINA. - - Woe is me—what is it you say? - - LADY INGER. - - Let not your courage fail you. Hearken to me. I know a word - that will keep you firm. Know then— [_Listening._] They are - fighting before the gate. Courage! Now comes the pinch! - [_Turns again to_ ELINA.] Know then: Nils Lykke was the man - that brought your sister to her grave. - - ELINA. - - [_With a shriek._] Lucia! - - LADY INGER. - - He it was, as truly as there is an Avenger above us! - - ELINA. - - Then Heaven be with me! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Appalled._] Elina——?! - - ELINA. - - I am his bride in the sight of God. - - LADY INGER. - - Unhappy child,—what have you done? - - ELINA. - - [_In a toneless voice._] Made shipwreck of my - soul.—Good-night, my mother! - - [_She goes out to the left._ - - LADY INGER. - - Ha-ha-ha! It goes down-hill apace with Inger Gyldenlöve’s - house. _There_ went the last of my daughters. - - Why could I not keep silence? Had she known nought, it may - be she had been happy—after a kind. - - It _was_ to be so. It is written up yonder in the stars that - I am to break off one green branch after another till the - trunk stand leafless at last. - - ’Tis well, ’tis well! I shall have my son again. Of the - others, of my daughters, I will not think. - - My reckoning? To face my reckoning?—It falls not due till - the last great day of wrath.—_That_ comes not yet awhile. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Calling from outside on the right._] Ho—shut the gate! - - LADY INGER. - - Count Sture’s voice——! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Rushes in, unarmed, and with his clothes torn, and shouts - with a laugh of desperation._] Well met again, Inger - Gyldenlöve! - - LADY INGER. - - What have you lost? - - NILS STENSSON. - - My kingdom and my life! - - LADY INGER. - - And the peasants? My servants?—where are they? - - NILS STENSSON. - - You will find the carcasses along the highway. Who has the - rest, I cannot tell you. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Outside on the right._] Count Sture! Where are you? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Here, here! - - [OLAF SKAKTAVL _comes in with his right hand wrapped - in a clout._ - - LADY INGER. - - Alas, Olaf Skaktavl, you too——! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - ’Twas impossible to break through. - - LADY INGER. - - You are wounded, I see! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - A finger the less; that is all. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Where are the Swedes? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - At our heels. They are breaking open the gate—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - Oh, God! No, no! I _cannot_—I _will_ not die. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - A hiding-place, Lady Inger! Is there no corner where we can - hide him? - - LADY INGER. - - But if they search the castle——? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, ay; they will find me! And then to be dragged away to - prison, or be strung up——! No, no, Inger Gyldenlöve,—I know - full well,—you will never suffer that to be! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - [_Listening._] There burst the lock. - - LADY INGER. - - [_At the window._] Many men rush in at the gateway. - - NILS STENSSON. - - And to lose my life _now_! Now, when my true life was but - beginning! Now, when I have so lately learnt that I have - aught to live for. No, no, no!—Think not I am a coward, - Inger Gyldenlöve! Might I but have time to show—— - - LADY INGER. - - I hear them now in the hall below. - - [_Firmly to_ OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - He _must_ be saved—cost what it will! - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_Seizes her hand._] Oh, I knew it;—you are noble and good! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - But how? Since we cannot hide him—— - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ah, I have it! I have it! The secret——! - - LADY INGER. - - The secret? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Even so; yours and mine! - - LADY INGER. - - Merciful Heaven—you know it? - - NILS STENSSON. - - From first to last. And now when ’tis life or death—Where is - Nils Lykke? - - LADY INGER. - - Fled. - - NILS STENSSON. - - Fled? Then God help me; for he alone can unseal my lips.—But - what is a promise against a life! When the Swedish captain - comes—— - - LADY INGER. - - What then? What will you do? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Purchase life and freedom;—tell him all. - - LADY INGER. - - Oh no, no;—be merciful! - - NILS STENSSON. - - Nought else can save me. When I have told him what I know—— - - LADY INGER. - - [_Looks at him with suppressed agitation._] You will be - safe? - - NILS STENSSON. - - Ay, safe! Nils Lykke will speak for me. You see, ’tis the - last resource. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Composedly, with emphasis._] The last resource? Right, - right—the last resource all are free to try. [_Points to the - left._] See, meanwhile you can hide in there. - - NILS STENSSON. - - [_In a low voice._] Trust me—you will never repent of this. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Half to herself._] God grant that you speak the truth! - - [NILS STENSSON _goes out hastily by the furthest - door on the left._ OLAF SKAKTAVL _is following; - but Lady Inger detains him._ - - LADY INGER. - - Did you understand his meaning? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - The dastard! He would betray your secret. He would sacrifice - your son to save himself. - - LADY INGER. - - When life is at stake, he said, we must try the last - resource.—’Tis well, Olaf Skaktavl,—let it be as he has - said! - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - What mean you? - - LADY INGER. - - Life against life! One of them must perish. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Ah—you would——? - - LADY INGER. - - If we close not the lips of him that is within ere he come - to speech with the Swedish captain, then is my son lost to - me. But if, on the other hand, he be swept from my path, - when the time comes I can claim all his rights for my own - child. Then shall you see that Inger Ottis’ daughter has - metal in her yet. Of this be assured—you shall not have long - to wait for the vengeance you have thirsted after for twenty - years.—Hark! They are coming up the stairs! Olaf - Skaktavl,—it lies with you whether tomorrow I shall be no - more than a childless woman, or —— - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - So be it! I have yet one sound hand left. - - [_Gives her his hand._] Inger Gyldenlöve—your name shall not - die out through me. - - _Follows_ NILS STENSSON _into the inner room._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Pale and trembling._] But dare I——? - - [_A noise is heard in the room; she rushes with a - scream towards the door._ - - No, no,—it must not be! - - [_A heavy fall is heard within; she covers her ears - with her hands and hurries back across the hall - with a wild look. After a pause she takes her - hands cautiously away, listens again, and says - softly:_ - - Now it is over. All is still within—— - - Thou sawest it, God—I repented me! But Olaf Skaktavl was too - swift of hand. - - [OLAF SKAKTAVL _comes silently into the hall._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_After a pause, without looking at him._] Is it done? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - You need fear him no more; he will betray no one. - - LADY INGER. - - [_As before._] Then he is dumb? - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - Six inches of steel in his breast. I felled him with my left - hand. - - LADY INGER. - - Ay, ay—the right was too good for such work. - - OLAF SKAKTAVL. - - That is your affair;—the thought was yours.—And now to - Sweden! Peace be with you meanwhile! When next we meet at - Östråt, I shall bring another with me. - - [_Goes out by the furthest door on the right._ - - LADY INGER. - - Blood on my hands. Then ’twas to come to that!—He begins to - be dear-bought now. - - [BIÖRN _comes in, with a number of Swedish_ - MEN-AT-ARMS, _by the first door on the right._ - - ONE OF THE MEN-AT-ARMS. - - Pardon, if you are the lady of the house—— - - LADY INGER. - - Is it Count Sture ye seek? - - THE MAN-AT-ARMS. - - The same. - - LADY INGER. - - Then you are on the right track. The Count has sought refuge - with me. - - THE MAN-AT-ARMS. - - Refuge? Pardon, my noble lady,—you have no power to harbour - him; for—— - - LADY INGER. - - That the Count himself has doubtless understood; and - therefore he has—ay, look for yourselves—therefore he has - taken his own life. - - THE MAN-AT-ARMS. - - His own life! - - LADY INGER. - - Look for yourselves, I say. You will find the corpse within - there. And since he already stands before another judge, it - is my prayer that he may be borne hence with all the honour - that beseems his noble birth.—Biörn, you know my own coffin - has stood ready this many a year in the secret chamber. [_To - the_ MEN-AT-ARMS.] I pray that in it you will bear Count - Sture’s body to Sweden. - - THE MAN-AT-ARMS. - - It shall be as you command. [_To one of the others._] Haste - with these tidings to Jens Bielke. He holds the road with - the rest of the troop. We others must in and—— - - _One of the_ MEN-AT-ARMS _goes out to the right; the - others go with_ BIÖRN _into the room on the - left._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Moves about for a time in uneasy silence._] - - If Count Sture had not taken such hurried leave of the - world, within a month he had hung on a gallows, or had lain - for all his days in a dungeon. Had he been better served - with such a lot? - - Or else he had bought his life by betraying my child into - the hands of my foes. Is it _I_, then, that have slain him? - Does not even the wolf defend her cubs? Who dare condemn me - for striking my claws into him that would have reft me of my - flesh and blood?—It had to be. No mother but would have done - even as I. - - But ’tis no time for idle musings now. I must to work. - - [_Sits down by the table on the left._ - - I will write to all my friends throughout the land. They - must rise as one man to support the great cause. A new - king,—regent first, and then king—— - - _Begins to write, but falls into thought, and says - softly:_ - - Who will be chosen in the dead man’s place?—A king’s - mother—? ’Tis a fair word. It has but one blemish—the - hateful likeness to another word.—King’s _mother_ and—king’s - _murderer_.[21]—King’s murderer—one that takes a king’s - life. King’s mother—one that gives a king life. - - [_She rises._ - - Well, then; I will make good what I have taken.—My son shall - be a king! - - _She sits down again and begins writing, but pushes - the paper away again, and leans back in her - chair._ - - There is ever an eerie feeling in a house where lies a - corpse. ’Tis therefore my mood is so strange. [_Turns her - head to one side as if speaking to some one._] Not - therefore? Why else should it be? - - [_Broodingly._ - - Is there such a great gulf, then, between openly striking - down a foe and slaying one—thus? Knut Alfson had cleft many - a brow with his sword; yet was his own as peaceful as a - child’s. Why then do I ever see this—[_makes a motion as - though striking with a knife_]—-this stab in the heart—and - the gush of red blood after? - - _Rings, and goes on speaking while shifting about - her papers._ - - Hereafter I will have nought to do with such ugly sights. I - will be at work both day and night. And in a month—in a - month my son will be here—— - - BIÖRN. - - [_Entering._] Did you strike the bell, my lady? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Writing._] Bring more lights. See to it in future that - there are many lights in the room. - - [BIÖRN _goes out again to the left._ - - LADY INGER. - - _After a pause, rises impetuously._] No, no, no;—I cannot - guide the pen to-night! My head is burning and throbbing—— - - [_Startled, listens._ - - What is _that_? Ah, they are screwing the lid on the coffin. - - They told me when I was a child the story of Sir Aage,[22] - who rose up and walked with his coffin on his back.—If _he_ - in there bethought him one night to come with the coffin on - his back, and thank me for the loan? [_Laughs quietly._] - H’m—what have we grown people to do with childish fancies? - [_Vehemently._] Nevertheless, such stories do no good! They - give uneasy dreams. When my son is king, they shall be - forbidden. - - _Paces up and down once or twice; then opens the - window._ - - How long is it, commonly, ere a body begins to rot? All the - rooms must be aired. ’Tis not wholesome here till that be - done. - - BIÖRN _comes in with two lighted - branch-candlesticks, which he places on the - tables._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Who has set to work at the papers again._] It is well. See - you forget not what I have said. Many lights on the table! - - What are they about now in there? - - BIÖRN. - - They are still screwing down the coffin-lid. - - LADY INGER. - - [_Writing._] Are they screwing it down _tight_? - - BIÖRN. - - As tight as need be. - - LADY INGER. - - Ay, ay—who can tell how tight it needs to be? Do you see - that ’tis well done. - - [_Goes up to him with her hand full of papers, and - says mysteriously:_ - - Biörn, you are an old man; but _one_ counsel I will give - you. Be on your guard against all men—both those that are - dead and those that are still to die.—Now go in—go in and - see to it that they screw the lid down tightly. - - BIÖRN. - - [_Softly, shaking his head._] I cannot make her out. - - [_Goes back again into the room on the left._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Begins to seal a letter, but throws it down half-closed; - walks up and down awhile, and then says vehemently:_] Were I - a coward I had never done it—never to all eternity! Were I a - coward, I had shrieked to myself: Refrain, while there is - yet a shred of hope for the saving of thy soul! - - [_Her eye falls on Sten Sture’s picture; she turns - to avoid seeing it, and says softly:_ - - He is laughing down at me as though he were alive! Pah! - - [_Turns the picture to the wall without looking at it._ - - Wherefore did you laugh? Was it because I did evil to your - son? But the other,—is not he your son too? And he is _mine_ - as well; mark that! - - [_Glances stealthily along the row of pictures._ - - So wild as they are to-night, I have never seen them yet. - Their eyes follow me wherever I may go. [_Stamps on the - floor._] I will not have it! I will have peace in my house! - [_Begins to turn all the pictures to the wall._] Ay, if it - were the Holy Virgin herself——Thinkest thou _now_ is the - time——? Why didst thou never hear my prayers, my burning - prayers, that I might have my child again? Why? Because the - monk of Wittenberg is right: There is no mediator between - God and man! - - [_She draws her breath heavily, and continues in - ever-increasing distraction._ - - ’Tis well that I know what to think in such things. There - was no one to see what was done in there. There is none to - bear witness against me. - - [_Suddenly stretches out her hands and whispers:_ - - My son! My beloved child! Come to me! Here I am!—Hush! I - will tell you something: They hate me up there—beyond the - stars—because I bore you into the world. ’Twas their will - that I should bear the Lord God’s standard over all the - land. But I went my own way. That is why I have had to - suffer so much and so long. - - BIÖRN. - - [_Comes from the room on the left._] My lady, I have to tell - you—Christ save me—what is this? - - LADY INGER. - - [_Has climbed up into the high-seat by the right-hand - wall._] Hush! Hush! I am the King’s mother. My son has been - chosen king. The struggle was hard ere it came to this—for - ’twas with the Almighty One himself I had to strive. - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Comes in breathless from the right._] He is saved! I have - Jens Bielke’s promise. Lady Inger,—know that—— - - LADY INGER. - - Peace, I say! look how the people swarm. - - [_A funeral hymn is heard from the room within._ - - There comes the coronation train. What a throng! All men bow - themselves before the King’s mother. Ay, ay; has she not - fought for her son—even till her hands grew red - withal?—Where are my daughters? I see them not. - - NILS LYKKE. - - God’s blood!—what has befallen here? - - LADY INGER. - - My daughters—my fair daughters! I have none any more. I had - _one_ left, and her I lost even as she was mounting her - bridal bed. [_Whispers._] In it lay Lucia dead. There was no - room for two. - - NILS LYKKE. - - Ah—it has come to this! The Lord’s vengeance is upon me. - - LADY INGER. - - Can you see him? Look, look! ’Tis the King. It is Inger - Gyldenlöve’s son! I know him by the crown and by Sten - Sture’s ring that he wears round his neck. Hark, what a - joyful sound! He is coming! Soon will he be in my arms! - Ha-ha!—who conquers, God or I? - - [_The_ MEN-AT-ARMS _come out with the coffin._ - - LADY INGER. - - [_Clutches at her head and shrieks._] The corpse! - [_Whispers._] Pah! ’Tis a hideous dream. [_Sinks back - into the high-seat._ - - JENS BIELKE. - - [_Who has come in from the right, stops and cries in - astonishment._] Dead! Then after all—— - - ONE OF THE MEN-AT-ARMS. - - ’Twas he himself that—— - - JENS BIELKE. - - [_With a look at_ NILS LYKKE.] He himself——? - - NILS LYKKE. - - Hush! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Faintly, coming to herself._] Ay, right;—now I remember - all. - - JENS BIELKE. - - [_To the_ MEN-AT-ARMS.] Set down the corpse. It is not Count - Sture. - - ONE OF THE MEN-AT-ARMS. - - Your pardon, Captain;—this ring that he wore around his - neck—— - - NILS LYKKE. - - [_Seizes his arm._] Be still! - - LADY INGER. - - [_Starts up._] The ring? The ring! - - [_Rushes up and snatches the ring from him._ - - Sten Sture’s ring! [_With a shriek._] Oh God, oh God—my son! - - [_Throws herself down on the coffin._ - - THE MEN-AT-ARMS. - - Her son? - - JENS BIELKE. - - [_At the same time._] Inger Gyldenlöve’s son? - - NILS LYKKE. - - So is it. - - JENS BIELKE. - - But why did you not tell me——? - - BIÖRN. - - [_Trying to raise her up._] Help! help! My lady—what ails - you? what lack you? - - LADY INGER. - - [_In a faint voice, half raising herself._] What lack I? One - coffin more. A grave beside my child—— - - [_Sinks again, senseless, on the coffin._ NILS LYKKE - _goes hastily out to the right. General - consternation among the rest._ - ------ - -Footnote 12: - - Pronounce _Knoot_. - -Footnote 13: - - Pronounce _Stoorë_. - -Footnote 14: - - Pronounce _Stayn Stoorë_. - -Footnote 15: - - Pronounce _Tronyem_. - -Footnote 16: - - Pronounce _Mayraytë_. - -Footnote 17: - - Pronounce _Loonghë_. - -Footnote 18: - - Pronounce _Ahkers-hoos_. - -Footnote 19: - - That is, Peter the Chancellor. - -Footnote 20: - - King Christian II. of Denmark (the perpetrator of the - massacre at Stockholm known as the Blood-Bath) fled to - Holland in 1523, five years before the date assigned to - this play, in order to escape death or imprisonment at the - hands of his rebellious nobles, who summoned his uncle, - Frederick I., to the throne. Returning to Denmark in 1532, - Christian was thrown into prison, where he spent the last - twenty-seven years of his life. - -Footnote 21: - - The words in the original are “Kongemoder” and - “Kongemorder,” a difference of one letter only. - -Footnote 22: - - Pronounce _Oaghë_. - ------ - - - - - THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG - (1856) - - - - - THE AUTHOR’S PREFACE TO THE - SECOND EDITION - - - I wrote _The Feast at Solhoug_ in Bergen in the summer of 1855—that - is to say, about twenty-eight years ago. - - The play was acted for the first time on January 2, 1856, also at - Bergen, as a gala performance on the anniversary of the foundation - of the Norwegian Stage. - - As I was then stage-manager of the Bergen Theatre, it was I myself - who conducted the rehearsals of my play. It received an excellent, a - remarkably sympathetic interpretation. Acted with pleasure and - enthusiasm, it was received in the same spirit. The “Bergen - emotionalism,” which is said to have decided the result of the - latest elections in those parts, ran high that evening in the - crowded theatre. The performance ended with repeated calls for the - author and for the actors. Later in the evening I was serenaded by - the orchestra, accompanied by a great part of the audience. I almost - think that I went so far as to make some kind of speech from my - window; certain I am that I felt extremely happy. - - A couple of months later, _The Feast at Solhoug_ was played in - Christiania. There also it was received by the public with much - approbation, and the day after the first performance Björnson wrote - a friendly, youthfully ardent article on it in the _Morgenblad_. It - was not a notice or criticism proper, but rather a free, fanciful - improvisation on the play and the performance. - - On this, however, followed the real criticism, written by the real - critics. - - How did a man in the Christiania of those days—by which I mean the - years between 1850 and 1860, or thereabouts—become a real literary, - and in particular dramatic, critic? - - As a rule, the process was as follows: After some preparatory - exercises in the columns of the _Samfundsblad_, and after having - frequently listened to the discussions which went on in Treschow’s - café or at “Ingebret’s” after the play, the future critic betook - himself to Johan Dahl’s bookshop and ordered from Copenhagen a copy - of J. L. Heiberg’s _Prose Works_, among which was to be found—so he - had heard it said—an essay entitled _On the Vaudeville_. This essay - was in due course read, ruminated on, and possibly to a certain - extent understood. From Heiberg’s writings the young man, moreover, - learned of a controversy which that author had carried on in his day - with Professor Oehlenschläger and with the Sorö poet, Hauch. And he - was simultaneously made aware that J. L. Baggesen (the author of - _Letters from the Dead_) had at a still earlier period made a - similar attack on the great author who wrote both _Axel and Valborg_ - and _Hakon Jarl_. - - A quantity of other information useful to a critic was to be - extracted from these writings. From them one learned, for instance, - that taste obliged a good critic to be scandalised by a hiatus. Did - the young critical Jeronimuses of Christiania encounter such a - monstrosity in any new verse, they were as certain as their - prototype in Holberg to shout their “Hoity-toity! the world will not - last till Easter!” - - The origin of another peculiar characteristic of the criticism then - prevalent in the Norwegian capital was long a puzzle to me. Every - time a new author published a book or had a little play acted, our - critics were in the habit of flying into an ungovernable passion and - behaving as if the publication of the book or the performance of the - play were a mortal insult to themselves and the newspapers in which - they wrote. As already remarked, I puzzled long over this - peculiarity. At last I got to the bottom of the matter. Whilst - reading the Danish _Monthly Journal of Literature_ I was struck by - the fact that old State-Councillor Molbech was invariably seized - with a fit of rage when a young author published a book or had a - play acted in Copenhagen. - - Thus, or in a manner closely resembling this, had the tribunal - qualified itself, which now, in the daily press, summoned _The Feast - at Solhoug_ to the bar of criticism in Christiania. It was - principally composed of young men who, as regards criticism, lived - upon loans from various quarters. Their critical thoughts had long - ago been thought and expressed by others; their opinions had long - ere now been formulated elsewhere. Their æsthetic principles were - borrowed; their critical method was borrowed; the polemical tactics - they employed were borrowed in every particular, great and small. - Their very frame of mind was borrowed. Borrowing, borrowing, here, - there, and everywhere! The single original thing about them was that - they invariably made a wrong and unseasonable application of their - borrowings. - - It can surprise no one that this body, the members of which, as - critics, supported themselves by borrowing, should have presupposed - similar action on my part, as author. Two, possibly more than two, - of the newspapers promptly discovered that I had borrowed this, - that, and the other thing from Henrik Hertz’s play, _Svend Dyring’s - House_. - - This is a baseless and indefensible critical assertion. It is - evidently to be ascribed to the fact that the metre of the ancient - ballads is employed in both plays. But my tone is quite different - from Hertz’s; the language of my play has a different ring; a light - summer breeze plays over the rhythm of my verse; over that of - Hertz’s brood the storms of autumn. - - Nor, as regards the characters, the action, and the contents of the - plays generally, is there any other or any greater resemblance - between them than that which is a natural consequence of the - derivation of the subjects of both from the narrow circle of ideas - in which the ancient ballads move. - - It might be maintained with quite as much, or even more, reason that - Hertz in his _Svend Dyring’s House_ had borrowed, and that to no - inconsiderable extent, from Heinrich von Kleist’s _Käthchen von - Heilbronn_, a play written at the beginning of this century. - Käthchen’s relation to Count Wetterstrahl is in all essentials the - same as Ragnhild’s to the knight, Stig Hvide. Like Ragnhild, - Käthchen is compelled by a mysterious, inexplicable power to follow - the man she loves wherever he goes, to steal secretly after him, to - lay herself down to sleep near him, to come back to him, as by some - innate compulsion, however often she may be driven away. And other - instances of supernatural interference are to be met with both in - Kleist’s and in Hertz’s play. - - But does any one doubt that it would be possible, with a little - good- or a little ill-will, to discover among still older dramatic - literature a play from which it could be maintained that Kleist had - borrowed here and there in his _Käthchen von Heilbronn_? I, for my - part, do not doubt it. But such suggestions of indebtedness are - futile. What makes a work of art the spiritual property of its - creator is the fact that he has imprinted on it the stamp of his own - personality. Therefore I hold that, in spite of the above-mentioned - points of resemblance, _Svend Dyring’s House_ is as incontestably - and entirely an original work by Henrik Hertz as _Käthchen von - Heilbronn_ is an original work by Heinrich von Kleist. - - I advance the same claim on my own behalf as regards _The Feast at - Solhoug_, and I trust that, for the future, each of the three - namesakes[23] will be permitted to keep, in its entirety, what - rightfully belongs to him. - - In writing of _The Feast at Solhoug_ in connection with _Svend - Dyring’s House_, George Brandes expresses the opinion, not that the - former play is founded upon any idea borrowed from the latter, but - that it has been written under an influence exercised by the older - author upon the younger. Brandes invariably criticises my work in - such a friendly spirit that I have all reason to be obliged to him - for this suggestion, as for so much else. - - Nevertheless I must maintain that he, too, is in this instance - mistaken. I have never specially admired Henrik Hertz as a - dramatist. Hence it is impossible for me to believe that he should, - unknown to myself, have been able to exercise any influence on my - dramatic production. - - As regards this point and the matter in general, I might confine - myself to referring those interested to the writings of Dr. Valfrid - Vasenius, lecturer on Æsthetics at the University of Helsingfors. In - the thesis which gained him his degree of Doctor of Philosophy, - _Henrik Ibsen’s Dramatic Poetry in its First Stage_ (1879), and also - in _Henrik Ibsen: The Portrait of a Skald_ (Jos. Seligman & Co., - Stockholm, 1882), Vasenius states and supports his views on the - subject of the play at present in question, supplementing them in - the latter work by what I told him, very briefly, when we were - together at Munich three years ago. - - But, to prevent all misconception, I will now myself give a short - account of the origin of _The Feast at Solhoug_. - - I began this Preface with the statement that _The Feast at Solhoug_ - was written in the summer of 1855. - - In 1854 I had written _Lady Inger of Östråt_. This was a task which - had obliged me to devote much attention to the literature and - history of Norway during the Middle Ages, especially the latter part - of that period. I did my utmost to familiarise myself with the - manners and customs, with the emotions, thoughts, and language, of - the men of those days. - - The period, however, is not one over which the student is tempted to - linger, nor does it present much material suitable for dramatic - treatment. - - Consequently I soon deserted it for the Saga period. But the Sagas - of the Kings, and in general the more strictly historical traditions - of that far-off age, did not attract me greatly; at that time I was - unable to put the quarrels between kings and chieftains, parties and - clans, to any dramatic purpose. This was to happen later. - - In the Icelandic “family” Sagas, on the other hand, I found in - abundance what I required in the shape of human garb for the moods, - conceptions, and thoughts which at that time occupied me, or were, - at least, more or less distinctly present in my mind. With these - Old-Norse contributions to the personal history of our Saga period I - had had no previous acquaintance; I had hardly so much as heard them - named. But now N. M. Petersen’s excellent translation—excellent, at - least, as far as the style is concerned—fell into my hands. In the - pages of these family chronicles, with their variety of scenes and - of relations between man and man, between woman and woman, in short, - between human being and human being, there met me a personal, - eventful, really living life; and as the result of my intercourse - with all these distinctly individual men and women, there presented - themselves to my mind’s eye the first rough, indistinct outlines of - _The Vikings at Helgeland_. - - How far the details of that drama then took shape, I am no longer - able to say. But I remember perfectly that the two figures of which - I first caught sight were the two women who in course of time became - Hiördis and Dagny. There was to be a great banquet in the play, with - passion-rousing, fateful quarrels during its course. Of other - characters and passions, and situations produced by these, I meant - to include whatever seemed to me most typical of the life which the - Sagas reveal. In short, it was my intention to reproduce - dramatically exactly what the Saga of the Volsungs gives in epic - form. - - I made no complete, connected plan at that time; but it was evident - to me that such a drama was to be my first undertaking. - - Various obstacles intervened. Most of them were of a personal - nature, and these were probably the most decisive; but it - undoubtedly had its significance that I happened just at this time - to make a careful study of Landstad’s collection of Norwegian - ballads, published two years previously. My mood of the moment was - more in harmony with the literary romanticism of the Middle Ages - than with the deeds of the Sagas, with poetical than with prose - composition, with the word-melody of the ballad than with the - characterisation of the Saga. - - Thus it happened that the fermenting, formless design for the - tragedy, _The Vikings at Helgeland_, transformed itself temporarily - into the lyric drama, _The Feast at Solhoug_. - - The two female characters, the foster sisters Hiördis and Dagny, of - the projected tragedy, became the sisters Margit and Signë of the - completed lyric drama. The derivation of the latter pair from the - two women of the Saga at once becomes apparent when attention is - drawn to it. The relationship is unmistakable. The tragic hero, so - far only vaguely outlined, Sigurd, the far-travelled Viking, the - welcome guest at the courts of kings, became the knight and - minstrel, Gudmund Alfson, who has likewise been long absent in - foreign lands, and has lived in the king’s household. His attitude - towards the two sisters was changed, to bring it into accordance - with the change in time and circumstances; but the position of both - sisters to him remained practically the same as that in the - projected and afterwards completed tragedy. The fateful banquet, the - presentation of which had seemed to me of the first importance in my - original plan, became in the drama the scene upon which its - personages made their appearance; it became the background against - which the action stood out, and communicated to the picture as a - whole the general tone at which I aimed. The ending of the play was, - undoubtedly, softened and subdued into harmony with its character as - drama, not tragedy; but orthodox æstheticians may still, perhaps, - find it disputable whether, in this ending, a touch of pure tragedy - has not been left behind, to testify to the origin of the drama. - - Upon this subject, however, I shall not enter further at present. My - object has simply been to maintain and prove that the play under - consideration, like all my other dramatic works, is an inevitable - outcome of the tenor of my life at a certain period. It had its - origin within, and was not the result of any outward impression or - influence. - - This, and no other, is the true account of the genesis of _The Feast - at Solhoug_. - - HENRIK IBSEN. - - ROME, April, 1883. - ------ - -Footnote 23: - - Heinrich von Kleist, Henrik Hertz, Henrik Ibsen. - ------ - - - - - CHARACTERS - - BENGT GAUTESON, _Master of Solhoug._ - MARGIT, _his wife._ - SIGNË, _her sister._ - GUDMUND ALFSON, _their kinsman._ - KNUT GESLING, _the King’s sheriff._ - ERIK OF HEGGË, _his friend._ - A HOUSE-CARL. - ANOTHER HOUSE-CARL. - THE KING’S ENVOY. - AN OLD MAN. - A MAIDEN. - GUESTS, BOTH MEN AND LADIES. - MEN OF KNUT GESLING’S TRAIN. - SERVING-MEN AND MAIDENS AT SOLHOUG. - - ------- - - _The action passes at Solhoug in the Fourteenth Century._ - - PRONUNCIATION OF NAMES: Gudmund = _Goodmoond_. The g in - “Margit” and in “Gesling” is hard, as in “go,” or, in - “Gesling,” it may be pronounced as y—“Yesling.” The first o - in “Solhoug” ought to have the sound of a very long “oo.” - - - - - THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG - PLAY IN THREE ACTS - - - ACT FIRST - - _A stately room, with doors in the back and to both sides. - In front, on the right, a bay window with small round - panes, set in lead, and near the window a table, on - which is a quantity of feminine ornaments. Along the - left wall, a longer table with silver goblets, beakers - and drinking-horns. The door in the back leads out to a - passage-way,[24] through which can be seen a spacious - fiord-landscape._ - - BENGT GAUTESON, MARGIT, KNUT GESLING _and_ ERIK OF HEGGË - _are seated around the table on the left. In the - background are_ KNUT’S _followers, some seated, some - standing; one or two flagons of ale are handed round - among them. Far off are heard church bells, ringing to - Mass._ - - - ERIK. - - [_Rising at the table._] In one word, now, what answer have - you to make to my wooing on Knut Gesling’s behalf? - - BENGT. - - [_Glancing uneasily towards his wife._] Well, I—to me it - seems—[_As she remains silent._] H’m, Margit, let us first - hear your thought in the matter. - - MARGIT. - - [_Rising._] Sir Knut Gesling, I have long known all that - Erik of Heggë has told of you. I know full well that you - come of a lordly house; you are rich in gold and gear, and - you stand in high favour with our royal master. - - BENGT. - - [_To_ KNUT.] In high favour—so say I too. - - MARGIT. - - And doubtless my sister could choose her no doughtier mate— - - BENGT. - - None doughtier; that is what _I_ say too. - - MARGIT. - - —if so be that you can win her to think kindly of you. - - BENGT. - - [_Anxiously, and half aside._] Nay—nay, my dear wife— - - KNUT. - - [_Springing up._] Stands it so, Dame Margit! You think that - your sister— - - BENGT. - - [_Seeking to calm him._] Nay, nay, Knut Gesling! Have - patience, now. You must understand us aright. - - MARGIT. - - There is naught in my words to wound you. My sister knows - you only by the songs that are made about you—and these - songs sound but ill in gentle ears. - - No peaceful home is your father’s house. - With your lawless, reckless crew, - Day out, day in, must you hold carouse— - God help her who mates with you. - God help the maiden you lure or buy - With gold and with forests green— - Soon will her sore heart long to lie - Still in the grave, I ween. - - ERIK. - - Aye, aye—true enough—Knut Gesling lives not overpeaceably. - But there will soon come a change in that, when he gets him - a wife in his hall. - - KNUT. - - And this I would have you mark, Dame Margit: it may be a - week since, I was at a feast at Heggë, at Erik’s bidding, - whom here you see. The ale was strong; and as the evening - wore on I vowed a vow that Signë, your fair sister, should - be my wife, and that before the year was out. Never shall it - be said of Knut Gesling that he brake any vow. You can see, - then, that you must e’en choose me for your sister’s - husband—be it with your will or against it. - - MARGIT. - - Ere _that_ may be, I must tell you plain, - You must rid yourself of your ravening train. - You must scour no longer with yell and shout - O’er the country-side in a galloping rout; - You must still the shudder that spreads around - When Knut Gesling is to a bride-ale bound. - Courteous must your mien be when a-feasting you ride; - Let your battle-axe hang at home at the chimney-side— - It ever sits loose in your hand, well you know, - When the mead has gone round and your brain is aglow. - From no man his rightful gear shall you wrest, - You shall harm no harmless maiden; - You shall send to no man the shameless hest - That when his path crosses yours, he were best - Come with his grave-clothes laden. - And if you will so bear you till the year be past, - You may win my sister for your bride at last. - - KNUT. - - [_With suppressed rage._] You know how to order your words - cunningly, Dame Margit. Truly, you should have been a - priest, and not your husband’s wife. - - BENGT. - - Oh, for that matter, I too could— - - KNUT. - - [_Paying no heed to him._] But I would have you take note - that had a sword-bearing man spoken to me in such wise— - - BENGT. - - Nay, but listen, Knut Gesling—you must understand us! - - KNUT. - - [_As before._] Well, briefly, he should have learnt that the - axe sits loose in my hand, as you said but now. - - BENGT. - - [_Softly._] There we have it! Margit, Margit, this will - never end well. - - MARGIT. - - [_To_ KNUT.] You asked for a forthright answer, and that I - have given you. - - KNUT. - - Well, well; I will not reckon too closely with you, Dame - Margit. You have more wit than all the rest of us together. - Here is my hand;—it may be there was somewhat of reason in - the keen-edged words you spoke to me. - - MARGIT. - - This I like well; now are you already on the right way to - amendment. Yet one word more—to-day we hold a feast at - Solhoug. - - KNUT. - - A feast? - - BENGT. - - Yes, Knut Gesling: you must know that it is our wedding-day; - this day three years ago made me Dame Margit’s husband. - - MARGIT. - - [_Impatiently, interrupting._] As I said, we hold a feast - to-day. When Mass is over, and your other business done, I - would have you ride hither again, and join in the banquet. - Then you can learn to know my sister. - - KNUT. - - So be it, Dame Margit; I thank you. Yet ’twas not to go to - Mass that I rode hither this morning. Your kinsman, Gudmund - Alfson, was the cause of my coming. - - MARGIT. - - [_Starts._] He! My kinsman? Where would you seek him? - - KNUT. - - His homestead lies behind the headland, on the other side of - the fiord. - - MARGIT. - - But he himself is far away. - - ERIK. - - Be not so sure; he may be nearer than you think. - - KNUT. - - [_Whispers._] Hold your peace! - - MARGIT. - - Nearer? What mean you? - - KNUT. - - Have you not heard, then, that Gudmund Alfson has come back - to Norway? He came with the Chancellor Audun of Hegranes, - who was sent to France to bring home our new Queen. - - MARGIT. - - True enough; but in these very days the King holds his - wedding-feast in full state at Bergen, and there is Gudmund - Alfson a guest. - - BENGT. - - And there could we too have been guests had my wife so - willed it. - - ERIK. - - [_Aside to_ KNUT.] Then Dame Margit knows not that—? - - KNUT. - - [_Aside._] So it would seem; but keep your counsel. - [_Aloud._] Well, well, Dame Margit, I must go my way none - the less, and see what may betide. At nightfall I will be - here again. - - MARGIT. - - And then you must show whether you have power to bridle your - unruly spirit. - - BENGT. - - Aye, mark you that. - - MARGIT. - - You must lay no hand on your axe—hear you, Knut Gesling? - - BENGT. - - Neither on your axe, nor on your knife, nor on any other - weapon whatsoever. - - MARGIT. - - For then can you never hope to be one of our kindred. - - BENGT. - - Nay, that is our firm resolve. - - KNUT. - - [_To_ MARGIT.] Have no fear. - - BENGT. - - And what we have firmly resolved stands fast. - - KNUT. - - That I like well, Sir Bengt Gauteson. I, too, say the same; - and I have pledged myself at the feast-board to wed your - kinswoman. You may be sure that my pledge, too, will stand - fast.—God’s peace till to-night! - - [_He and_ ERIK, _with their men, go out at the back._ - - [_BENGT accompanies them to the door. The sound of the bells - has in the meantime ceased._ - - BENGT. - - [_Returning._] Methought he seemed to threaten us as he - departed. - - MARGIT. - - [_Absently._] Aye, so it seemed. - - BENGT. - - Knut Gesling is an ill man to fall out with. And, when I - bethink me, we gave him over many hard words. But come, let - us not brood over that. To-day we must be merry, Margit!—as - I trow we have both good reason to be. - - MARGIT. - - [_With a weary smile._] Aye, surely, surely. - - BENGT. - - ’Tis true I was no mere stripling when I courted you. But - well I wot I was the richest man for many and many a mile. - You were a fair maiden, and nobly born; but your dowry would - have tempted no wooer. - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] Yet was I then so rich. - - BENGT. - - What said you, my wife? - - MARGIT. - - Oh, nothing, nothing. [_Crosses to the right._] I will deck - me with pearls and rings. Is not to-night a time of - rejoicing for me? - - BENGT. - - I am fain to hear you say it. Let me see that you deck you - in your best attire, that our guests may say: Happy she who - mated with Bengt Gauteson.—But now must I to the larder; - there are many things to-day that must not be overlooked. - - [_He goes out to the left._ - - MARGIT. - - [_Sinks down on a chair by the table on the right._ - - ’Twas well he departed. While here he remains - Meseems the blood freezes within my veins; - Meseems that a crushing might and cold - My heart in its clutches doth still enfold. - - [_With tears she cannot repress._ - - _He_ is my husband! I am _his_ wife! - How long, how long lasts a woman’s life? - Sixty years, mayhap—God pity me - Who am not yet full twenty-three! - - [_More calmly, after a short silence._ - - Hard, so long in a gilded cage to pine; - Hard a hopeless prisoner’s lot—and mine. - - [_Absently fingering the ornaments on the table, and - beginning to put them on._ - - With rings, and with jewels, and all of my best - By his order myself I am decking— - But oh, if to-day were my burial-feast, - ’Twere little that I’d be recking. - - [_Breaking off._ - - But if thus I brood I must needs despair; - I know a song that can lighten care. - - [_She sings._ - - The Hill-King to the sea did ride; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - To woo a maiden to be his bride. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - The Hill-King rode to Sir Håkon’s hold; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - Little Kirsten sat combing her locks of gold. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - The Hill-King wedded the maiden fair; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - A silvern girdle she ever must wear. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - The Hill-King wedded the lily-wand, - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - With fifteen gold rings on either hand. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - Three summers passed, and there passed full five; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - In the hill little Kirsten was buried alive. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - Five summers passed, and there passed full nine; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - Little Kirsten ne’er saw the glad sunshine. - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - In the dale there are flowers and the birds’ blithe song; - —Oh, sad are my days and dreary— - In the hill there is gold and the night is long - —I am waiting for thee, I am weary.— - - [_She rises and crosses the room._ - - How oft in the gloaming would Gudmund sing - This song in my father’s hall. - There was somewhat in it—some strange, sad thing - That took my heart in thrall; - Though I scarce understood, I could ne’er forget— - And the words and the thoughts they haunt me yet. - - [_Stops horror-struck._ - - Rings of red gold! And a belt beside—! - ’Twas with gold the Hill-King wedded his bride! - - [_In despair; sinks down on a bench beside the table - on the left._ - - Woe! Woe! I myself am the Hill-King’s wife! - And there cometh none to free me from the prison of my life. - - [SIGNË, _radiant with gladness, comes running in - from the back._ - - SIGNË. - - [_Calling._] Margit, Margit,—he is coming! - - MARGIT. - - [_Starting up._] Coming? Who is coming? - - SIGNË. - - Gudmund, our kinsman! - - MARGIT. - - Gudmund Alfson! Here! How can you think—? - - SIGNË. - - Oh, I am sure of it. - - MARGIT. - - [_Crosses to the right._] Gudmund Alfson is at the - wedding-feast in the King’s hall; you know that as well as - I. - - SIGNË. - - Maybe; but none the less I am sure it was he. - - MARGIT. - - Have you seen him? - - SIGNË. - - Oh, no, no; but I must tell you— - - MARGIT. - - Yes, haste you—tell on! - - SIGNË. - - ’Twas early morn, and the church bells rang, - To Mass I was fain to ride; - The birds in the willows twittered and sang, - In the birch-groves far and wide. - All earth was glad in the clear, sweet day; - And from church it had well-nigh stayed me; - For still, as I rode down the shady way, - Each rosebud beguiled and delayed me. - Silently into the church I stole; - The priest at the altar was bending; - He chanted and read, and with awe in their soul, - The folk to God’s word were attending. - Then a voice rang out o’er the fiord so blue; - And the carven angels, the whole church through, - Turned round, methought, to listen thereto. - - MARGIT. - - O Signë, say on! Tell me all, tell me all! - - SIGNË. - - ’Twas as though a strange, irresistible call - Summoned me forth from the worshipping flock, - Over hill and dale, over mead and rock. - ’Mid the silver birches I listening trod, - Moving as though in a dream; - Behind me stood empty the house of God; - Priest and people were lured by the magic, ’twould seem, - Of the tones that still through the air did stream. - No sound they made; they were quiet as death; - To hearken the song-birds held their breath, - The lark dropped earthward, the cuckoo was still, - As the voice re-echoed from hill to hill. - - MARGIT. - - Go on. - - SIGNË. - - They crossed themselves, women and men; - - [_Pressing her hands to her breast._ - - But strange thoughts arose within me then; - For the heavenly song familiar grew: - Gudmund oft sang it to me and you— - Ofttimes has Gudmund carolled it, - And all he e’er sang in my heart is writ. - - MARGIT. - - And you think that it may be—? - - SIGNË. - - I know it is he! - I know it! I know it! You soon shall see! - - [_Laughing._ - - From far-off lands, at the last, in the end, - Each song-bird homewards his flight doth bend! - I am so happy—though why I scarce know—! - Margit, what say you? I’ll quickly go - And take down his harp, that has hung so long - In there on the wall that ’tis rusted quite; - Its golden strings I will polish bright, - And tune them to ring and to sing with his song. - - MARGIT. - - [_Absently._] - - Do as you will— - - SIGNË. - - [_Reproachfully._] - - Nay, this is not right. - - [_Embracing her._ - - But when Gudmund comes will your heart grow light— - Light, as when I was a child, again. - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] - - So much has changed—ah, so much!—since then— - - SIGNË. - - Margit, you _shall_ be happy and gay! - Have you not serving-maids many, and thralls? - Costly robes hang in rows on your chamber walls; - How rich you are, none can say. - By day you can ride in the forest deep, - Chasing the hart and the hind; - By night in a lordly bower you can sleep, - On pillows of silk reclined. - - MARGIT. - - [_Looking towards the window._] - - And he comes to Solhoug! He, as a guest! - - SIGNË. - - What say you? - - MARGIT. - - [_Turning._] - - Naught.—Deck you out in your best. - That fortune which seemeth to you so bright - May await yourself. - - SIGNË. - - Margit, say what you mean! - - MARGIT. - - [_Stroking her hair._] - - I mean—nay, no more! Twill shortly be seen—; - I mean—should a wooer ride hither to-night—? - - SIGNË. - - A wooer? For whom? - - MARGIT. - - For you. - - SIGNË. - - [_Laughing._] - - For me? - That he’d ta’en the wrong road full soon he would see. - - MARGIT. - - What would you say if a valiant knight - Begged for your hand? - - SIGNË. - - That my heart was too light - To think upon suitors or choose a mate. - - MARGIT. - - But if he were mighty, and rich, and great? - - SIGNË. - - Oh, were he a king, did his palace hold - Stores of rich garments and ruddy gold, - ’Twould ne’er set my heart desiring. - With you I am rich enough here, meseems, - With summer and sun and the murmuring streams, - And the birds in the branches quiring. - Dear sister mine—here shall my dwelling be; - And to give any wooer my hand in fee, - For that I am too busy, and my heart too full of glee! - - [SIGNË _runs out to the left, singing._ - - MARGIT. - - [_After a pause._] Gudmund Alfson coming hither! Hither—to - Solhoug? No, no, it cannot be.—Signë heard him singing, she - said! When I have heard the pine-trees moaning in the forest - afar, when I have heard the waterfall thunder and the birds - pipe their lure in the treetops, it has many a time seemed - to me as though, through it all, the sound of Gudmund’s - songs came blended. And yet he was far from here.—Signë has - deceived herself. Gudmund cannot be coming. - - [BENGT _enters hastily from the back._ - - BENGT. - - [_Entering, calls loudly._] An unlooked-for guest, my wife! - - MARGIT. - - What guest? - - BENGT. - - Your kinsman, Gudmund Alfson! [_Calls through the doorway on - the right._] Let the best guest-room be prepared—and that - forthwith! - - MARGIT. - - Is he, then, already here? - - BENGT. - - [_Looking out through the passage-way._] - - Nay, not yet; but he cannot be far off. [_Calls again to the - right._] The carved oak bed, with the dragon-heads! - [_Advances to_ MARGIT.] His shield-bearer brings a message - of greeting from him; and he himself is close behind. - - MARGIT. - - His shield-bearer! Comes he hither with a shield-bearer? - - BENGT. - - Aye, by my faith he does. He has a shield-bearer and six - armed men in his train. What would you? Gudmund Alfson is a - far other man than he was when he set forth to seek his - fortune. But I must ride forth and receive him. - - [_Calls out._] The gilded saddle on my horse! And forget not - the bridle with the serpents’ heads! [_Looks out to the - back._] Ha, there he is already at the gate! Well, then, my - staff—my silver-headed staff! Such a lordly knight—Heaven - save us!—we must receive him with honour, with all seemly - honour! - - [_Goes hastily out to the back._ - - MARGIT. - [_Brooding._] - - Alone he departed, a penniless swain; - With esquires and henchmen now comes he again. - What would he? Comes he, forsooth, to see - My bitter and gnawing misery? - Would he try how long, in my lot accurst, - I can writhe and moan, ere my heart-strings burst— - Thinks he that—? Ah, let him only try! - Full little joy shall he reap thereby. - - [_She beckons through the doorway on the right. - Three handmaidens enter._ - - List, little maids, what I say to you: - Find me my silken mantle blue. - Go with me into my bower anon: - My richest of velvets and furs do on. - Two of you shall deck me in scarlet and vair, - The third shall wind pearl-strings into my hair. - All my jewels and gauds bear away with ye! - - [_The handmaids go out to the left, taking the - ornaments with them._ - - Since Margit the Hill-King’s bride must be, - Well! don we the queenly livery! - - [_She goes out to the left._ - - [BENGT _ushers in_ GUDMUND ALFSON, _through the - pent-house passage at the back._ - - BENGT. - - And now once more—welcome under Solhoug’s roof, my wife’s - kinsman. - - GUDMUND. - - I thank you. And how goes it with her? She thrives well in - every way, I make no doubt? - - BENGT. - - Aye, you may be sure she does. There is nothing she lacks. - She has five handmaidens, no less, at her beck and call; a - courser stands ready saddled in the stall when she lists to - ride abroad. In one word, she has all that a noble lady can - desire to make her happy in her lot. - - GUDMUND. - - And Margit—is she then happy? - - BENGT. - - God and all men would think that she must be; but, strange - to say— - - GUDMUND. - - What mean you? - - BENGT. - - Well, believe it or not as you list, but it seems to me that - Margit was merrier of heart in the days of her poverty, than - since she became the lady of Solhoug. - - GUDMUND. - - [_To himself._] I knew it; so it must be. - - BENGT. - - What say you, kinsman? - - GUDMUND. - - I say that I wonder greatly at what you tell me of your - wife. - - BENGT. - - Aye, you may be sure I wonder at it too. On the faith and - troth of an honest gentleman, ’tis beyond me to guess what - more she can desire. I am about her all day long; and no one - can say of me that I rule her harshly. All the cares of - household and husbandry I have taken on myself; yet - notwithstanding—Well, well, you were ever a merry heart; I - doubt not you will bring sunshine with you. Hush! here comes - Dame Margit! Let her not see that I— - - [MARGIT _enters from the left, richly dressed._ - - GUDMUND. - - [_Going to meet her._] Margit—my dear Margit! - - MARGIT. - - [_Stops, and looks at him without recognition._] Your - pardon, Sir Knight; but—? [_As though she only now - recognised him._] Surely, if I mistake not, ’tis Gudmund - Alfson. - - [_Holding out her hand to him._ - - GUDMUND. - - [_Without taking it._] And you did not at once know me - again? - - BENGT. - - [_Laughing._] Why, Margit, of what are you thinking? I told - you but a moment agone that your kinsman— - - MARGIT. - - [_Crossing to the table on the right._] Twelve years is a - long time, Gudmund. The freshest plant may wither ten times - over in that space. - - GUDMUND. - - ’Tis seven years since last we met. - - MARGIT. - - Surely it must be more than that. - - GUDMUND. - - [_Looking at her._] I could almost think so. But ’tis as I - say. - - MARGIT. - - How strange! I must have been but a child then; and it seems - to me a whole eternity since I was a child. [_Throws herself - down on a chair._] Well, sit you down, my kinsman! Rest you, - for to-night you shall dance, and rejoice us with your - singing. [_With a forced smile._] Doubtless you know we are - merry here to-day—we are holding a feast. - - GUDMUND. - - ’Twas told me as I entered your homestead. - - BENGT. - - Aye, ’tis three years to-day since I became— - - MARGIT. - - [_Interrupting._] My kinsman has already heard it. [_To_ - GUDMUND.] Will you not lay aside your cloak? - - GUDMUND. - - I thank you, Dame Margit; but it seems to me cold - here—colder than I had foreseen. - - BENGT. - - For my part, I am warm enough; but then I have a hundred - things to do and to take order for. [_To_ MARGIT.] Let not - the time seem long to our guest while I am absent. You can - talk together of the old days. [_Going._ - - MARGIT. - - [_Hesitating._] Are you going? Will you not rather—? - - BENGT. - - [_Laughing, to_ GUDMUND, _as he comes forward again._] See - you well—Sir Bengt of Solhoug is the man to make the women - fain of him. How short so e’er the space, my wife cannot - abide to be without me. [_To_ MARGIT, _caressing her._] - Content you; I shall soon be with you again. [_He goes - out to the back._ - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself_.] Oh, torture, to have to endure it all. - [_A short silence._ - - GUDMUND. - - How goes it, I pray, with your sister dear? - - MARGIT. - - Right well, I thank you. - - GUDMUND. - - They said she was here - With you. - - MARGIT. - - She has been here ever since we— - - [_Breaks off._ - - She came, now three years since, to Solhoug with me. - - [_After a pause._ - - Ere long she’ll be here, her friend to greet. - - GUDMUND. - - Well I mind me of Signë’s nature sweet. - No guile she dreamed of, no evil knew. - When I call to remembrance her eyes so blue - I must think of the angels in heaven. - But of years there have passed no fewer than seven; - In that time much may have altered. Oh, say - If she, too, has changed so while I’ve been away? - - MARGIT. - - She too? Is it, pray, in the halls of kings - That you learn such courtly ways, Sir Knight? - To remind me thus of the change time brings— - - GUDMUND. - - Nay, Margit, my meaning you read aright! - You were kind to me, both, in those far-away years— - Your eyes, when we parted were wet with tears. - We swore like brother and sister still - To hold together in good hap or ill. - ’Mid the other maids like a sun you shone, - Far, far and wide was your beauty known. - You are no less fair than you were, I wot; - But Solhoug’s mistress, I see, has forgot - The penniless kinsman. So hard is your mind - That ever of old was gentle and kind. - - MARGIT. - [_Choking back her tears._] - - Aye, of old—! - - GUDMUND. - - [_Looks compassionately at her, is silent for a - little, then says in a subdued voice._ - - Shall we do as your husband said? - Pass the time with talk of the dear old days? - - MARGIT. - [_Vehemently._] - - No, no, not of them! [_More calmly._ - Their memory’s dead. - My mind unwillingly backward strays. - Tell rather of what your life has been, - Of what in the wide world you’ve done and seen. - Adventures you’ve lacked not, well I ween— - In all the warmth and the space out yonder, - That heart and mind should be light, what wonder? - - GUDMUND. - - In the King’s high hall I found not the joy - That I knew by my own poor hearth as a boy. - - MARGIT. - [WITHOUT LOOKING AT HIM.] - - While I, as at Solhoug each day flits past, - Thank Heaven that here has my lot been cast. - - GUDMUND. - - ’Tis well if for this you can thankful be— - - MARGIT. - [_Vehemently._] - - Why not? For am I not honoured and free? - Must not all folk here obey my hest? - Rule I not all things as seemeth me best? - Here I am first, with no second beside me; - And that, as you know, from of old satisfied me. - Did you think you would find me weary and sad? - Nay, my mind is at peace and my heart is glad. - You might, then, have spared your journey here - To Solhoug; ’twill profit you little, I fear. - - GUDMUND. - - What, mean you, Dame Margit? - - MARGIT. - [_Rising._] - - I understand all— - I know why you come to my lonely hall. - - GUDMUND. - - And you welcome me not, though you know why I came? - - [_Bowing, and about to go._ - - God’s peace and farewell, then, my noble dame! - - MARGIT. - - To have stayed in the royal hall, indeed, - Sir Knight, had better become your fame. - - GUDMUND. - [_Stops._] - - In the royal hall? Do you scoff at my need? - - MARGIT. - - Your need? You are ill to content, my friend; - Where, I would know, do you think to end? - You can dress you in velvet and cramoisie, - You stand by the throne, and have lands in fee— - - GUDMUND. - - Do you deem, then, that fortune is kind to me? You said but - now that full well you knew What brought me to Solhoug— - - MARGIT. - - I told you true! - - GUDMUND. - - Then you know what of late has befallen me;— - You have heard the tale of my outlawry? - - MARGIT. - [_Terror-struck._] - - An outlaw! You, Gudmund! - - GUDMUND. - - I am indeed. - But I swear, by the Holy Christ I swear, - Had I known the thoughts of your heart, I ne’er - Had bent me to Solhoug in my need. - I thought that you still were gentle-hearted, - As you ever were wont to be ere we parted: - But I truckle not to you; the wood is wide, - My hand and my bow shall fend for me there; - I will drink of the mountain brook, and hide - My head in the wild beast’s lair. - - [_On the point of going._ - - MARGIT. - [_Holding him back._] - - Outlawed! Nay, stay! I swear to you - That naught of your outlawry I knew. - - GUDMUND. - - It is as I tell you. My life’s at stake; - And to live are all men fain. - Three nights like a dog ’neath the sky I’ve lain, - My couch on the hillside forced to make, - With for pillow the boulder grey. - Though too proud to knock at the door of the stranger, - And pray him for aid in the hour of danger, - Yet strong was my hope as I held on my way: - I thought: When to Solhoug you come at last - Then all your pains will be done and past. - You have sure friends there, whatever betide.— - But hope like a wayside flower shrivels up; - Though your husband met me with flagon and cup, - And his doors flung open wide, - Within, your dwelling seems chill and bare; - Dark is the hall; my friends are not there. - ’Tis well; I will back to my hills from your halls. - - MARGIT. - [_Beseechingly._] - - Oh, hear me! - - GUDMUND. - - My soul is not base as a thrall’s. - Now life to me seems a thing of nought; - Truly I hold it scarce worth a thought. - You have killed all that I hold most dear; - Of my fairest hopes I follow the bier. - Farewell, then, Dame Margit! - - MARGIT. - - Nay, Gudmund, hear! - By all that is holy—! - - GUDMUND. - - Live on as before - Live on in honour and joyance— - Never shall Gudmund darken your door, - Never shall cause you ’noyance. - - MARGIT. - - Enough, enough. Your bitterness - You presently shall rue. - Had I known you outlawed, shelterless, - Hunted the country through— - Trust me, the day that brought you here - Would have seemed the fairest of many a year; - And a feast I had counted it indeed - When you turned to Solhoug for refuge in need. - - GUDMUND. - - What say you—? How shall I read your mind? - - MARGIT. - [_Holding out her hand to him._] - - Read this: that at Solhoug dwell kinsfolk kind. - - GUDMUND. - - But you said of late—? - - MARGIT. - - To that pay no heed. - Or hear me, and understand indeed. - For me is life but a long, black night, - Nor sun, nor star for me shines bright. - I have sold my youth and my liberty, - And none from my bargain can set me free. - My heart’s content I have bartered for gold, - With gilded chains I have fettered myself; - Trust me, it is but comfort cold - To the sorrowful soul, the pride of pelf. - How blithe was my childhood—how free from care! - Our house was lowly and scant our store; - But treasures of hope in my breast I bore. - - GUDMUND. - [_Whose eyes have been fixed upon her._] - - E’en then you were growing to beauty rare. - - MARGIT. - - Mayhap; but the praises showered on me - Caused the wreck of my happiness—that I now see. - To far-off lands away you sailed; - But deep in my heart was graven each song - You had ever sung; and their glamour was strong; - With a mist of dreams my brow they veiled. - In them all the joys you had dwelt upon - That can find a home in the beating breast; - You had sung so oft of the lordly life - ’Mid knights and ladies. And lo! anon - Came wooers a many from east and from west; - And so—I became Bengt Gauteson’s wife. - - GUDMUND. - - Oh, Margit! - - MARGIT. - - The days that passed were but few - Ere with tears my folly I ’gan to rue. - To think, my kinsman and friend, on thee - Was all the comfort left to me. - How empty now seemed Solhoug’s hall, - How hateful and drear its great rooms all! - Hither came many a knight and dame, - Came many a skald to sing my fame. - But never a one who could fathom aright - My spirit and all its yearning— - I shivered, as though in the Hill-King’s might; - Yet my head throbbed, my blood was burning. - - GUDMUND. - - But your husband—? - - MARGIT. - - He never to me was dear. - ’Twas his gold was my undoing. - When he spoke to me, aye, or e’en drew near, - My spirit writhed with ruing. - - [_Clasping her hands._ - - And thus have I lived for three long years— - A life of sorrow, of unstanched tears! - Your coming was rumoured. You know full well - What pride deep down in my heart doth dwell. - I hid my anguish, I veiled my woe, - For you were the last that the truth must know. - - GUDMUND. - [_Moved._] - - ’Twas therefore, then, that you turned away— - - MARGIT. - [_Not looking at him._] - - I thought you came at my woe to jeer. - - GUDMUND. - - Margit, how could you think—? - - MARGIT. - - Nay, nay, - There was reason enough for such a fear. - But thanks be to Heaven, that fear is gone; - And now no longer I stand alone; - My spirit now is as light and free - As a child’s at play ’neath the greenwood tree. - - [_With a sudden start of fear._ - - Ah, where are my wits fled! How could I forget—? - Ye saints, I need sorely your succor yet! - An outlaw, you said—? - - GUDMUND. - [_Smiling._] - - Nay, now I’m at home; - Hither the King’s men scarce dare come. - - MARGIT. - - Your fall has been sudden. I pray you, tell - How you lost the King’s favour. - - GUDMUND. - - ’Twas thus it befell. - You know how I journeyed to France of late, - When the Chancellor, Audun of Hegranes, - Fared thither from Bergen, in royal state, - To lead home the King’s bride, the fair Princess, - With her squires, and maidens, and ducats bright. - Sir Audun’s a fair and a stately knight, - The Princess shone with a beauty rare— - Her eyes seemed full of a burning prayer. - They would oft talk alone and in whispers, the two— - Of what? That nobody guessed or knew. - There came a night when I leant at ease - Against the galley’s railing; - My thoughts flew onward to Norway’s leas, - With the milk-white seagulls sailing. - Two voices whispered behind my back;— - I turned—it was he and she; - I knew them well, though the night was black, - But they—they saw not me. - She gazed upon him with sorrowful eyes - And whispered: “Ah, if to southern skies - We could turn the vessel’s prow, - And we were alone in the bark, we twain, - My heart, methinks, would find peace again, - Nor would fever burn my brow.” - Sir Audun answers; and straight she replies, - In words so fierce, so bold; - Like glittering stars I can see her eyes; - She begged him— [_Breaking off._ - My blood ran cold. - - MARGIT. - - She begged—? - - GUDMUND. - - I arose, and they vanished apace; - All was silent, fore and aft;— - - [_Producing a small phial._ - - But this I found by their resting place. - - MARGIT. - - And that—? - - GUDMUND. - [_Lowering his voice._] - - Holds a secret draught. - A drop of this in your enemy’s cup - And his life will sicken and wither up. - No leechcraft helps ’gainst the deadly thing. - - MARGIT. - - And that—? - - GUDMUND. - - That draught was meant for the King. - - MARGIT. - - Great God! - - GUDMUND. - [_Putting up the phial again._] - - That I found it was well for them all. - In three days more was our voyage ended; - Then I fled, by my faithful men attended. - For I knew right well, in the royal hall, - That Audun subtly would work my fall,— - Accusing me— - - MARGIT. - - Aye, but at Solhoug he - Cannot harm you. All as of old will be. - - GUDMUND. - - All? Nay, Margit—you then were free. - - MARGIT. - - You mean—? - - GUDMUND. - - I? Nay, I meant naught. My brain - Is wildered; but ah, I am blithe and fain - To be, as of old, with you sisters twain. - But tell me,—Signë—? - - MARGIT. - [_Points smiling towards the door on the left._] - - She comes anon. - To greet her kinsman she needs must don - Her trinkets—a task that takes time, ’tis plain. - - GUDMUND. - - I must see—I must see if she knows me again. - - [_He goes out to the left._ - - MARGIT. - - [_Following him-with her eyes._] How fair and manlike he is! - [_With a sigh._] There is little likeness ’twixt him - and—[_Begins putting things in order on the table, but - presently stops._] “You then were free,” he said. Yes, then! - [_A short pause._] ’Twas a strange tale, that of the - Princess who—She held another dear, and then—Aye, those - women of far-off lands—I have heard it before—they are not - weak as we are; they do not fear to pass from thought to - deed. [_Takes up a goblet which stands on the table._] ’Twas - in this beaker that Gudman and I, when he went away, drank - to his happy return. ’Tis well-nigh the only heirloom I - brought with me to Solhoug. [_Putting the goblet away in a - cupboard._] How soft is this summer day; and how light it is - in here! So sweetly has the sun not shone for three long - years. - - [SIGNË, _and after her_ GUDMUND, _enters from the - left._ - - SIGNË. - [_Runs laughing up to_ MARGIT.] - - Ha, ha, ha! He will not believe that ’tis I! - - MARGIT. - [_Smiling, to_ GUDMUND.] - - You see: while in far-off lands you strayed, - She, too, has altered, the little maid. - - GUDMUND. - - Aye truly! But that she should be—Why, - ’Tis a marvel in very deed. - - [_Takes both_ SIGNË’S _hands and looks at her._ - - Yet, when I look in these eyes so blue, - The innocent child-mind I still can read— - Yes, Signë, I know that ’tis you! - I needs must laugh when I think how oft - I have thought of you perched on my shoulder aloft - As you used to ride. You were then a child; - Now you are a nixie, spell-weaving, wild. - - SIGNË. - [_Threatening with her finger._] - - Beware! If the nixie’s ire you awaken, - Soon in her nets you will find yourself taken. - - GUDMUND. - [_To himself._] - - I am snared already, it seems to me. - - SIGNË. - - But, Gudmund, wait—you have still to see - How I’ve shielded your harp from the dust and the rust. - - [_As she goes out to the left._ - - You shall teach me all of your songs! You must! - - GUDMUND. - [_Softly, as he follows her with his eyes._] - - She has flushed to the loveliest rose of May, - That was yet but a bud in the morning’s ray. - - SIGNË. - [_Returning with the harp._] - - Behold! - - GUDMUND. - [_Taking it._] - - My harp! As bright as of yore! - - [_Striking one or two chords._ - - Still the old chords ring sweet and clear— - On the wall, untouched, thou shalt hang no more. - - MARGIT. - [_Looking out at the back._] - - Our guests are coming. - - SIGNË. - - [_While_ GUDMUND _preludes his song._] - - Hush—hush! Oh, hear! - - GUDMUND. - [_Sings._] - - I roamed through the uplands so heavy of cheer; - The little birds quavered in bush and in brere; - The little birds quavered, around and above: - Wouldst know of the sowing and growing of love? - - It grows like the oak tree through slow-rolling years; - ’Tis nourished by dreams, and by songs, and by tears; - But swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by, - Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye. - - [_As he strikes the concluding chords, he goes - towards the back, where he lays down his harp._ - - SIGNË. - [_Thoughtfully, repeats to herself._] - - But swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by, - Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye. - - MARGIT. - - [_Absently._] Did you speak to me?—I heard not clearly—? - - SIGNË. - - I? No, no. I only meant— - - [_She again becomes absorbed in dreams._ - - MARGIT. - [_Half aloud; looking straight before her._] - - It grows like the oak tree through slow-rolling years; - ’Tis nourished by dreams, and by songs and by tears. - - SIGNË. - - [_Returning to herself._] You said that—? - - MARGIT. - - [_Drawing her hand over her brow._] Nay, ’twas nothing. - Come, we must go meet our guests. - - [BENGT _enters with many_ GUESTS, _both men and - women, through the passageway._ - - GUESTS. - [_Sing._] - - With song and harping enter we - The feast-hall opened wide; - Peace to our hostess kind and free, - All happiness to her betide. - O’er Solhoug’s roof for ever may - Bright as to-day - The heavens abide. - - - - - ACT SECOND - - _A birch grove adjoining the house, one corner of which is - seen to the left. At the back, a footpath leads up the - hillside. To the right of the footpath a river comes - tumbling down a ravine and loses itself among boulders - and stones. It is a light summer evening. The door - leading to the house stands open; the windows are - lighted up. Music is heard from within._ - - THE GUESTS. - [_Singing in the Feast Hall._] - - Set bow to fiddle! To sound of strings - We’ll dance till night shall furl her wings, - Through the long hours glad and golden! - Like blood-red blossom the maiden glows— - Come, bold young wooer and hold the rose - In a soft embrace enfolden. - - [KNUT GESLING _and_ ERIK OF HEGGË _enter from the - house. Sounds of music, dancing and merriment - are heard from within during what follows._ - - ERIK. - - If only you come not to repent it, Knut. - - KNUT. - - That is my affair. - - ERIK. - - Well, say what you will, ’tis a daring move. You are the - King’s Sheriff. Commands go forth to you that you shall - seize the person of Gudmund Alfson, wherever you may find - him. And now, when you have him in your grasp, you proffer - him your friendship, and let him go freely, whithersoever he - will. - - KNUT. - - I know what I am doing. I sought him in his own dwelling, - but there he was not to be found. If, now, I went about to - seize him here—think you that Dame Margit would be minded to - give me Signë to wife? - - ERIK. - - [_With deliberation._] No, by fair means it might scarcely - be, but— - - KNUT. - - And by foul means I am loth to proceed. Moreover, Gudmund is - my friend from bygone days; and he can be helpful to me. - [_With decision._] Therefore it shall be as I have said. - This evening no one at Solhoug shall know that Gudmund - Alfson is an outlaw;—to-morrow he must look to himself. - - ERIK. - - Aye, but the King’s decree? - - KNUT. - - Oh, the King’s decree! You know as well as I that the King’s - decree is but little heeded here in the uplands. Were the - King’s decree to be enforced, many a stout fellow among us - would have to pay dear both for bride-rape and for - man-slaying. Come this way, I would fain know where Signë—? - - [_They go out to the right._ - - [GUDMUND _and_ SIGNË _come down the footpath at the - back._ - - SIGNË. - - Oh, speak! Say on! For sweeter far - Such words than sweetest music are. - - GUDMUND. - - Signë, my flower, my lily fair! - - SIGNË. - - [_In subdued, but happy wonderment._] - - I am dear to him—I! - - GUDMUND. - - As none other I swear. - - SIGNË. - - And is it I that can bind your will! - And is it I that your heart can fill! - Oh, dare I believe you? - - GUDMUND. - - Indeed you may. - List to me, Signë! The years sped away, - But faithful was I in my thoughts to you, - My fairest flowers, ye sisters two. - My own heart I could not clearly read. - When I left, my Signë was but a child, - A fairy elf, like the creatures wild - Who play, while we sleep, in wood and mead. - But in Solhoug’s hall to-day, right loud - My heart spake, and right clearly; - It told me that Margit’s a lady proud, - Whilst you’re the sweet maiden I love most dearly. - - SIGNË. - [_Who has only half listened to his words._] - - I mind me, we sat in the hearth’s red glow, - One winter evening—’tis long ago— - And you sang to me of the maiden fair - Whom the neckan had lured to his watery lair. - There she forgot both father and mother, - There she forgot both sister and brother; - Heaven and earth and her Christian speech, - And her God, she forgot them all and each. - But close by the strand a stripling stood - And he was heartsore and heavy of mood. - He struck from his harpstrings notes of woe, - That wide o’er the waters rang loud, rang low. - The spell-bound maid in the tarn so deep, - His strains awoke from her heavy sleep. - The neckan must grant her release from his rule, - She rose through the lilies afloat on the pool— - Then looked she to heaven while on green earth she trod, - And wakened once more to her faith and her God. - - GUDMUND. - - Signë, my fairest of flowers! - - SIGNË. - - It seems - That I, too, have lived in a world of dreams. - But the strange deep words you to-night have spoken, - Of the power of love, have my slumber broken. - The heavens seemed never so blue to me, - Never the world so fair; - I can understand, as I roam with thee, - The song of the birds in air. - - GUDMUND. - - So mighty is love—it stirs in the breast - Thoughts and longings and happy unrest. - But come, let us both to your sister go. - - SIGNË. - - Would you tell her—? - - GUDMUND. - - Everything she must know. - - SIGNË. - - Then go you alone;—I feel that my cheek - Would be hot with blushes to hear you speak. - - GUDMUND. - - So be it, I go. - - SIGNË. - - And here will I bide; - - [_Listening towards the right._ - - Or better—down by the riverside, - I hear Knut Gesling, with maidens and men. - - GUDMUND. - - There will you stay? - - SIGNË. - - Till you come again. - - [_She goes out to the right._ GUDMUND _goes into the - house._ - - [MARGIT _enters from behind the house on the - left._ - - MARGIT. - - In the hall there is gladness and revelry; - The dancers foot it with jest and glee. - The air weighed hot on my brow and breast; - For Gudmund, he was not there. - - [_She draws a deep breath._ - - Out here ’tis better: here’s quiet and rest. - How sweet is the cool night air! - - [_A brooding silence._ - - That horrible thought! Oh, why should it be - That wherever I go it follows me? - The phial—doth a secret draught contain; - A drop of this in my—enemy’s cup, - And his life would sicken and wither up; - The leech’s skill would be tried in vain. - - [_Again a silence._ - - Were I sure that Gudmund—held me dear— - Then little I’d care for— - - [_Gudmund enters from the house._ - - GUDMUND. - - You, Margit, here? - And alone? I have sought you everywhere. - - MARGIT. - - ’Tis cool here. I sickened of heat and glare. - See you how yonder the white mists glide - Softly over the marshes wide? - Here it is neither dark nor light, - But midway between them— - - [_To herself._ - - —as in my breast. - - [_Looking at him._ - - Is’t not so—when you wander on such a night - You hear, though but half to yourself confessed, - A stirring of secret life through the hush, - In tree and in leaf, in flower and in rush? - - [_With a sudden change of tone_. - - Can you guess what I wish? - - GUDMUND. - - Well? - - MARGIT. - - That I could be - The nixie that haunts yonder upland lea. - How cunningly I should weave my spell! - Trust me—! - - GUDMUND. - - Margit, what ails you? Tell! - - MARGIT. - [_Paying no heed to him._] - - How I should quaver my magic lay! - Quaver and croon it both night and day! - - [_With growing vehemence._ - - How I would lure the knight so bold - Through the greenwood glades to my mountain hold. - There were the world and its woes forgot - In the burning joys of our blissful lot. - - GUDMUND. - - Margit! Margit! - - MARGIT. - [_Ever more wildly._] - - At midnight’s hour - Sweet were our sleep in my lonely bower;— - And if death should come with the dawn, I trow - ’Twere sweet to die so;—what thinkest thou? - - GUDMUND. - - You are sick! - - MARGIT. - [_Bursting into laughter._] - - Ha, ha!—Let me laugh! ’Tis good - To laugh when the heart is in laughing mood! - - GUDMUND. - - I see that you still have the same wild soul - As of old— - - MARGIT. - [_With sudden seriousness._] - - Nay, let not that vex your mind, - ’Tis only at midnight it mocks control; - By day I am timid as any hind. - How tame I have grown, you yourself must say, - When you think on the women in lands far away— - Of that fair Princess—ah, _she_ was wild! - Beside her lamblike am I and mild. - She did not helplessly yearn and brood, - She would have acted; and that— - - GUDMUND. - - ’Tis good - You remind me; straightway I’ll cast away - What to me is valueless after this day— - - [_Takes out the phial._ - - MARGIT. - - The phial! You meant—? - - GUDMUND. - - I thought it might be - At need a friend that should set me free - Should the King’s men chance to lay hands on me. - But from to-night it has lost its worth; - Now will I fight all the kings of earth, - Gather my kinsfolk and friends to the strife, - And battle right stoutly for freedom and life. - - [_Is about to throw the phial against a rock._ - - MARGIT. - [_Seizing his arm._] - - Nay, hold! Let me have it— - - GUDMUND. - - First tell me why? - - MARGIT. - - I’d fain fling it down to the neckan hard by, - Who so often has made my dull hours fleet - With his harping and songs, so strange and sweet. - Give it me! - - [_Takes the phial from his hand._ - - There! - - [_Feigns to throw it into the river._ - - GUDMUND. - - [_Goes to the right, and looks down into the ravine._] - - Have you thrown it away? - - MARGIT. - [_Concealing the phial._] - - Aye, surely! You saw— - - [_Whispers as she goes towards the house._ - - Now God help and spare me! - The ice must now either break or bear me! - - [_Aloud._ - - Gudmund! - - GUDMUND. - [_Approaching_.] - - What would you? - - MARGIT. - - Teach me, I pray, - How to interpret the ancient lay - They sing of the church in the valley there: - A gentle knight and a lady fair, - They loved each other well. - That very day on her bier she lay - He on his sword-point fell. - They buried her by the northward spire, - And him by the south kirk wall; - And theretofore grew neither bush nor briar - In the hallowed ground at all. - But next spring from their coffins twain - Two lilies fair upgrew— - And by and by, o’er the roof-tree high, - They twined and they bloomed the whole year through. - How read you the riddle? - - GUDMUND. - [_Looks searchingly at her._] - - I scarce can say. - - MARGIT. - - You may doubtless read it in many a way; - But its truest meaning, methinks, is clear: - The church can never sever two that hold each other dear. - - GUDMUND. - [_To himself._] - - Ye saints, if she should—? Lest worse befall, - ’Tis time indeed I told her all! [_Aloud._ - Do you wish for my happiness—Margit, tell! - - MARGIT. - [_In joyful agitation._] - - Wish for it! I! - - GUDMUND. - - Then, wot you well, - The joy of my life now rests with you— - - MARGIT. - [_With an outburst._] - - Gudmund! - - GUDMUND. - - Listen! ’tis time you knew— - - [_He stops suddenly._ - - [_Voices and laughter are heard by the river bank._ - SIGNË _and some other_ GIRLS _enter from the - right, accompanied by_ KNUT, ERIK _and several_ - YOUNGER MEN. - - KNUT. - - [_Still at a distance._] Gudmund Alfson! Wait; I must speak - a word with you. - - [_He stops, talking to_ ERIK. _The other_ GUESTS _in the - meantime enter the house._ - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] The joy of his life—! What else can he mean - but—! [_Half aloud._] Signë—my dear, dear sister! - - [_She puts her arm round SIGNË’S waist, and they go towards - the back talking to each other._ - - GUDMUND. - - [_Softly, as he follows them with his eyes._] - - Aye, so it were wisest. Both Signë and I must away from - Solhoug. Knut Gesling has shown himself my friend; he will - help me. - - KNUT. - - [_Softly, to_ ERIK.] Yes, yes, I say, Gudmund is her - kinsman; he can best plead my cause. - - ERIK. - - Well, as you will. [_He goes into the house._ - - KNUT. - - [_Approaching._] Listen, Gudmund— - - GUDMUND. - - [_Smiling._] Come you to tell me that you dare no longer let - me go free. - - KNUT. - - Dare! Be at your ease as to that. Knut Gesling dares - whatever he will. No, ’tis another matter. You know that - here in the district, I am held to be a wild, unruly - companion— - - GUDMUND. - - Aye, and if rumour lies not— - - KNUT. - - Why no, much that it reports may be true enough. But now, I - must tell you— - - [_They go, conversing, up towards the back._ - - SIGNË. - - [_To_ MARGIT, _as they come forward beside the house._] I - understand you not. You speak as though an unlooked-for - happiness had befallen you. What is in your mind? - - MARGIT. - - Signë—you are still a child; you know not what it means to - have ever in your heart the dread of—[_Suddenly breaking - off._] Think, Signë, what it must be to wither and die - without ever having lived. - - SIGNË. - - [_Looks at her in astonishment, and shakes her head._] Nay, - but, Margit—? - - MARGIT. - - Aye, aye, you do not understand, but none the less— - - [_They go up again, talking to each other._ GUDMUND _and_ - KNUT _come down on the other side._ - - GUDMUND. - - Well, if so it be—if this wild life no longer contents - you—then I will give you the best counsel that ever friend - gave to friend: take to wife an honourable maiden. - - KNUT. - - Say you so? And if I now told you that ’tis even that I have - in mind? - - GUDMUND. - - Good luck and happiness to you then, Knut Gesling! And now - you must know that I too— - - KNUT. - - You? Are you, too, so purposed? - - GUDMUND. - - Aye, truly. But the King’s wrath;—I am a banished man— - - KNUT. - - Nay, to that you need give but little thought. As yet there - is no one here, save Dame Margit, that knows aught of the - matter; and so long as I am your friend, you have one in - whom you can trust securely. Now I must tell you— - - [_He proceeds in a whisper as they go up again._ - - SIGNË. - - [_As she and_ MARGIT _again advance._] But tell me then, - Margit—! - - MARGIT. - - More I dare not tell you. - - SIGNË. - - Then will I be more open-hearted than you. But first answer - me one question. [_Bashfully, with hesitation._] Is there—is - there no one who has told you anything concerning me? - - MARGIT. - - Concerning you? Nay, what should that be? - - SIGNË. - - [_As before, looking downwards._] You said to me this - morning: if a wooer came riding hither—? - - MARGIT. - - That is true. [_To herself._] Knut Gesling—has he already—? - [_Eagerly, to_ SIGNË.] Well? What then? - - SIGNË. - - [_Softly, but with exultation._] The wooer has come! He has - come, Margit! I knew not then whom you meant; but now—! - - MARGIT. - - And what have you answered him? - - SIGNË. - - Oh, how should I know? [_Flinging her arms round her - sister’s neck._] But the world seems to me so rich and - beautiful since the moment when he told me that he held me - dear. - - MARGIT. - - Why, Signë, Signë, I cannot understand that you should so - quickly—! You scarce knew him before to-day. - - SIGNË. - - Oh, ’tis but little I yet know of love; but this - I know that what the song says is true: - Full swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by, - Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye— - - MARGIT. - - So be it; and since so it is, I need no longer hold aught - concealed from you. Ah— - - [_She stops suddenly, as she sees_ KNUT _and_ GUDMUND - _approaching._ - - KNUT. - - [_In a tone of satisfaction._] Ha, this is as I would have - it, Gudmund. Here is my hand! - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] What is this? - - GUDMUND. - - [_To_ KNUT.] And here is mine! - - [_They shake hands._ - - KNUT. - - But now we must each of us name who it is— - - GUDMUND. - - Good. Here at Solhoug, among so many fair women, I have - found her whom— - - KNUT. - - I too. And I will bear her home this very night, if it be - needful. - - MARGIT. - - [_Who has approached unobserved._] All saints in heaven! - - GUDMUND. - - [_Nods to_ KNUT.] The same is my intent! - - SIGNË. - - [_Who has also been listening._] Gudmund! - - GUDMUND AND KNUT. - - [_Whispering to each other, as they both point at_ SIGNË.] - There she is! - - GUDMUND. - - [_Starting._] Aye, mine. - - KNUT. - - [_Likewise._] No, mine! - - MARGIT. - - [_Softly, half bewildered._] Signë! - - GUDMUND. - - [_As before, to_ KNUT.] What mean you by that? - - KNUT. - - I mean that ’tis Signë whom I— - - GUDMUND. - - Signë! Signë is my betrothed in the sight of God. - - MARGIT. - - [_With a cry._] It was she! No—no! - - GUDMUND. - - [_To himself, as he catches sight of her._] Margit! She has - heard everything. - - KNUT. - - Ho, ho! So this is how it stands? Nay, Dame Margit, ’tis - needless to put on such an air of wonder; now I understand - everything. - - MARGIT. - - [_To_ SIGNË.] But not a moment ago you said—? [_Suddenly - grasping the situation._] ’Twas Gudmund you meant! - - SIGNË. - - [_Astonished._] Yes, did you not know it! But what ails you, - Margit? - - MARGIT. - - [_In an almost toneless voice._] Nay, nothing, nothing. - - KNUT. - - [_To_ MARGIT.] And this morning, when you made me give my - word that I would stir no strife here to-night—you already - knew that Gudmund Alfson was coming. Ha, ha, think not that - you can hoodwink Knut Gesling! Signë has become dear to me. - Even this morning ’twas but my hasty vow that drove me to - seek her hand; but now— - - SIGNË. - - [_To_ MARGIT.] He? Was _this_ the wooer that was in your - mind? - - MARGIT. - - Hush, hush! - - KNUT. - - [_Firmly and harshly._] Dame Margit—you are her elder - sister; you shall give me an answer. - - MARGIT. - - [_Battling with herself._] Signë has already made her - choice;—I have naught to answer. - - KNUT. - - Good; then I have nothing more to do at Solhoug. But after - midnight—mark you this—the day is at an end; then you may - chance to see me again, and then Fortune must decide whether - it be Gudmund or I that shall bear Signë away from this - house. - - GUDMUND. - - Aye, try if you dare; it shall cost you a bloody sconce. - - SIGNË. - - [_In terror._] Gudmund! By all the saints—! - - KNUT. - - Gently, gently, Gudmund Alfson! Ere sunrise you shall be in - my power. And she—your lady-love—[_Goes up to the door, - beckons and calls in a low voice._] Erik! Erik! come hither! - we must away to our kinsfolk. [_Threateningly, while_ ERIK - _shows himself in the doorway._] Woe upon you all when I - come again! - - [_He and_ ERIK _go off to the left at the back._] - - SIGNË. - - [_Softly to_ GUDMUND.] Oh, tell me, what does all this mean? - - GUDMUND. - - [_Whispering._] We must both leave Solhoug this very night. - - SIGNË. - - God shield me—you would—! - - GUDMUND. - - Say nought of it! No word to any one, not even to your - sister. - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] She—it is she! She of whom he had scarce - thought before to-night. Had I been free, I know well whom - he had chosen.—Aye, free! - - [BENGT _and_ GUESTS, _both Men and Women, enter from - the house._ - - YOUNG MEN AND MAIDENS. - - Out here, out here be the feast arrayed, - While the birds are asleep in the greenwood shade. - How sweet to sport in the flowery glade - ’Neath the birches. - - Out here, out here, shall be mirth and jest, - No sigh on the lips and no care in the breast, - When the fiddle is tuned at the dancers’ ’hest, - ’Neath the birches. - - BENGT. - - That is well, that is well! So I fain would see it! I am - merry, and my wife likewise; and therefore I pray ye all to - be merry along with us. - - ONE OF THE GUESTS. - - Aye, now let us have a stave-match.[25] - - MANY. - - [_Shout._] Yes, yes, a stave-match! - - ANOTHER GUEST. - - Nay, let that be; it leads but to strife at the feast. - [_Lowering his voice._] Bear in mind that Knut Gesling is - with us to-night. - - SEVERAL. - - [_Whispering among themselves._] Aye, aye, that is true. - Remember the last time, how he—. Best beware. - - AN OLD MAN. - - But you, Dame Margit—I know your kin had ever wealth of - tales in store; and you yourself, even as a child, knew many - a fair legend. - - MARGIT. - - Alas! I have forgot them all. But ask Gudmund Alfson, my - kinsman; he knows a tale that is merry enough. - - GUDMUND. - - [_In a low voice, imploringly._] Margit! - - MARGIT. - - Why, what a pitiful countenance you put on! Be merry, - Gudmund! Be merry! Aye, aye, it comes easy to you, well I - wot. [_Laughing, to the_ GUESTS.] He has seen the huldra - to-night. She would fain have tempted him; but Gudmund is a - faithful swain. [_Turns again to_ GUDMUND.] Aye, but the - tale is not finished yet. When you bear away your lady-love, - over hill and through forest, be sure you turn not round; be - sure you never look back—the huldra sits laughing behind - every bush; and when all is done—[_In a low voice, coming - close up to him._]—you will go no further than she will let - you. [_She crosses to the right._] - - SIGNË. - - Oh, God! Oh, God! - - BENGT. - - [_Going around among the_ GUESTS _in high contentment._] Ha, - ha, ha! Dame Margit knows how to set the mirth afoot! When - she takes it in hand, she does it much better than I. - - GUDMUND. - - [_To himself._] She threatens! I must tear the last hope out - of her breast; else will peace never come to her mind. - [_Turns to the_ GUESTS.] I mind me of a little song. If it - please you to hear it— - - SEVERAL OF THE GUESTS. - - Thanks, thanks, Gudmund Alfson! - - [_They close around him, some sitting, others - standing._ MARGIT _leans against a tree in front - on the right._ SIGNË _stands on the left, near - the house._ - - GUDMUND. - [_Sings._] - - I rode into the wildwood, - I sailed across the sea, - But ’twas at home I wooed and won - A maiden fair and free. - - It was the Queen of Elfland, - She waxed full wroth and grim: - Never, she swore, shall that maiden fair - Ride to the church with him. - - Hear me, thou Queen of Elfland. - Vain, vain are threat and spell; - For naught can sunder two true hearts - That love each other well! - - AN OLD MAN. - - That is a right fair song. See how the young swains cast - their glances thitherward! [_Pointing towards the_ GIRLS.] - Aye, aye, doubtless each has his own. - - BENGT. - - [_Making eyes at_ MARGIT.] Yes, I have mine, that is sure - enough. Ha, ha, ha! - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself, quivering._] To have to suffer all this shame - and scorn! No, no; now to essay the last remedy! - - BENGT. - - What ails you? Meseems you look so pale. - - MARGIT. - - ’Twill soon pass over. [_Turns to the_ GUESTS.] Did I say - e’en now that I had forgotten all my tales? I bethink me now - that I remember one. - - BENGT. - - Good, good, my wife! Come, let us hear it. - - YOUNG GIRLS. - - [_Urgently._] Yes, tell it us, tell it us, Dame Margit! - - MARGIT. - - I almost fear that ’twill little please you; but that must - be as it may. - - GUDMUND. - - [_To himself._] Saints in heaven, surely she would not—! - - MARGIT. - - It was a fair and noble maid, - She dwelt in her father’s hall; - Both linen and silk did she broider and braid, - Yet found in it solace small. - For she sat there alone in cheerless state, - Empty were hall and bower; - In the pride of her heart, she was fain to mate - With a chieftain of pelf and power. - But now ’twas the Hill King, he rode from the north, - With his henchmen and his gold; - On the third day at night he in triumph fared forth, - Bearing _her_ to his mountain hold. - Full many a summer she dwelt in the hill; - Out of beakers of gold she could drink at her will. - Oh, fair are the flowers of the valley, I trow, - But only in dreams can she gather them now! - ’Twas a youth, right gentle and bold to boot, - Struck his harp with such magic might - That it rang to the mountain’s inmost root, - Where she languished in the night. - The sound in her soul waked a wondrous mood— - Wide open the mountain-gates seemed to stand; - The peace of God lay over the land, - And she saw how it all was fair and good. - There had happened what never had happened before; - She had wakened to life as his harp-strings thrilled; - And her eyes were opened to all the store - Of treasure wherewith the good earth is filled. - For mark this well: it hath ever been found - That those who in caverns deep lie bound - Are lightly freed by the harp’s glad sound. - He saw her prisoned, he heard her wail— - But he cast unheeding his harp aside, - Hoisted straightway his silken sail, - And sped away o’er the waters wide - To stranger strands with his new-found bride. - - [_With ever-increasing passion._ - - So fair was thy touch on the golden strings - That my breast heaves high and my spirit sings! - I must out, I must out to the sweet green leas! - I die in the Hill-King’s fastnesses! - He mocks at my woe as he clasps his bride - And sails away o’er the waters wide! - - [_Shrieks._ - - With me all is over; my hill-prison barred; - Unsunned is the day, and the night all unstarred. - - [_She totters and, fainting, seeks to support - herself against the trunk of a tree._ - - SIGNË. - - [_Weeping, has rushed up to her, and takes her in her - arms._] Margit! My sister! - - GUDMUND. - - [_At the same time, supporting her._] Help! Help! she is - dying! - - [BENGT _and the_ GUESTS _flock round them with cries - of alarm._ - - - - - ACT THIRD - - _The hall at Solhoug as before, but now in disorder after - the feast. It is night still, but with a glimmer of - approaching dawn in the room and over the landscape - without._ - - BENGT _stands outside in the passage-way, with a beaker of - ale in his hand. A party of_ GUESTS _are in the act of - leaving the house. In the room a_ MAID-SERVANT _is - restoring order._ - - - BENGT. - - [_Calls to the departing_ GUESTS.] God speed you, then, and - bring you back ere long to Solhoug. Methinks you, like the - rest, might have stayed and slept till morning. Well, well! - Yet hold—I’ll e’en go with you to the gate. I must drink - your healths once more. [_He goes out._ - - GUESTS. - [_Sing in the distance._] - - Farewell, and God’s blessing on one and all - Beneath this roof abiding! - The road must be faced. To the fiddler we call: - Tune up! Our cares deriding, - With dance and with song - We’ll shorten the way so weary and long. - Right merrily off we go. - - [_The song dies away in the distance._ - - [MARGIT _enters the hall by the door on the right._ - - MAID. - - God save us, my lady, have you left your bed? - - MARGIT. - - I am well. Go you and sleep. Stay—tell me, are the guests - all gone? - - MAID. - - No, not all; some wait till later in the day; ere now they - are sleeping sound. - - MARGIT. - - And Gudmund Alfson—? - - MAID. - - He, too, is doubtless asleep. [_Points to the right._] ’Tis - some time since he went to his chamber—yonder, across the - passage. - - MARGIT. - - Good; you may go. - - [_The_ MAID _goes out to the left._ - - [MARGIT _walks slowly across the hall, seats herself by the - table on the right, and gazes out at the open window._ - - MARGIT. - - To-morrow, then, Gudmund will ride away - Out into the world so great and wide. - Alone with my husband here I must stay; - And well do I know what will then betide. - Like the broken branch and the trampled flower - I shall suffer and fade from hour to hour. - - [_Short pause; she leans back in her chair._ - - I once heard a tale of a child blind from birth, - Whose childhood was full of joy and mirth; - For the mother, with spells of magic might, - Wove for the dark eyes a world of light. - And the child looked forth with wonder and glee - Upon valley and hill, upon land and sea. - Then suddenly the witchcraft failed— - The child once more was in darkness pent; - Good-bye to games and merriment; - With longing vain the red cheeks paled. - And its wail of woe, as it pined away, - Was ceaseless, and sadder than words can say.— - Oh! like that child’s my eyes were sealed, - To the light and the life of summer blind— - - [_She springs up._ - - But _now_—! And I in this cage confined! - No, now is the worth of my youth revealed! - Three years of life I on him have spent— - My husband—but were I longer content - This hapless, hopeless weird to dree, - Meek as a dove I needs must be. - I am wearied to death of petty brawls; - The stirring life of the great world calls. - I will follow Gudmund with shield and bow, - I will share his joys, I will soothe his woe, - Watch o’er him both by night and day. - All that behold shall envy the life - Of the valiant knight and Margit his wife.— - His wife! [_Wrings her hands._ - Oh God, what is this I say! - Forgive me, forgive me, and oh! let me feel - The peace that hath power both to soothe and to heal. - - [_Walks back and forward, brooding silently._ - - Signë, my sister—? How hateful ’twere - To steal her glad young life from her! - But who can tell? In very sooth - She may love him but with the light love of youth. - - [_Again silence; she takes out the little phial, - looks long at it and says under her breath:_ - - This phial—were I its powers to try— - My husband would sleep for ever and aye! - - [_Horror-struck._ - - No, no! To the river’s depths with it straight! - - [_In the act of throwing it out of the window, - stops._ - - And yet I could—’tis not yet too late.— - - [_With an expression of mingled horror and rapture, - whispers._ - - With what a magic resistless might - Sin masters us in our own despite! - Doubly alluring methinks is the goal - I must reach through blood, with the wreck of my soul. - - [BENGT, _with the empty beaker in his hand, comes in - from the passage-way; his face is red; he - staggers slightly._ - - BENGT. - - [_Flinging the beaker upon the table on the left._] My - faith, this has been a feast that will be the talk of the - country. [_Sees_ MARGIT.] Eh, are you there? You are well - again. Good, good. - - MARGIT. - - [_Who in the meantime has concealed the phial._] Is the door - barred? - - BENGT. - - [_Seating himself at the table on the left._] I have seen to - everything. I went with the last guests as far as the gates. - But what became of Knut Gesling to-night?—Give me mead, - Margit! I am thirsty. Fill this cup. - - [MARGIT _fetches a flagon of mead from a cupboard, and fills - the goblet which is on the table in front of him._ - - MARGIT. - - [_Crossing to the right with the flagon._] You asked about - Knut Gesling. - - BENGT. - - That I did. The boaster, the braggart! I have not forgot his - threats of yester-morning. - - MARGIT. - - He used worse words when he left to-night. - - BENGT. - - He did? So much the better. I will strike him dead. - - MARGIT. - - [_Smiling contemptuously._] H’m— - - BENGT. - - I will kill him, I say! I fear not to face ten such fellows - as he. In the store-house hangs my grandfather’s axe; its - shaft is inlaid with silver; with that axe in my hands, I - tell you—! [_Thumps the table and drinks._] To-morrow I - shall arm myself, go forth with all my men, and slay Knut - Gesling. [_Empties the beaker._ - - MARGIT. - - [_To herself._] Oh, to have to live with him! - - [_Is in the act of leaving the room._ - - BENGT. - - Margit, come here! Fill my cup again. [_She approaches; he - tries to draw her down on to his knee._] Ha, ha, ha! You are - right fair, Margit! I love you well! - - MARGIT. - - [_Freeing herself._] Let me go! - - [_Crosses, with the goblet in her hand, to the - left._ - - BENGT. - - You are not in the humour to-night. Ha, ha, ha! That means - no great matter, I know. - - MARGIT. - - [_Softly, as she fills the goblet._] Oh, that this might be - the last beaker I should fill for you. - - [_She leaves the goblet on the table and is making - her way out to the left._ - - BENGT. - - Hark to me, Margit. For one thing you may thank Heaven, and - that is, that I made you my wife before Gudmund Alfson came - back. - - MARGIT. - - [_Stops at the door._] Why so? - - BENGT. - - Why, say you? Am not I ten times the richer man? And certain - I am that he would have sought you for his wife, had you not - been the mistress of Solhoug. - - MARGIT. - - [_Drawing nearer and glancing at the goblet._] Say you so? - - BENGT. - - I could take my oath upon it. Bengt Gauteson has two sharp - eyes in his head. But he may still have Signë. - - MARGIT. - - And you think he will—? - - BENGT. - - Take her? Aye, since he cannot have you. But had you been - free,—then—Ha, ha, ha! Gudmund is like the rest. He envies - me my wife. That is why I set such store by you, Margit. - Here with the goblet again. And let it be full to the brim! - - MARGIT. - - [_Goes unwillingly across to the right._] You shall have it - straightway. - - BENGT. - - Knut Gesling is a suitor for Signë, too, but him I am - resolved to slay. Gudmund is an honourable man; he shall - have her. Think, Margit, what good days we shall have with - them for neighbours. We will go a-visiting each other, and - then will we sit the live-long day, each with his wife on - his knee, drinking and talking of this and of that. - - MARGIT. - - [_Whose mental struggle is visibly becoming more severe, - involuntarily takes out the phial as she says:_] No doubt, - no doubt! - - BENGT. - - Ha, ha, ha! it may be that at first Gudmund will look - askance at me when I take you in my arms; but that, I doubt - not, he will soon get over. - - MARGIT. - - This is more than woman can bear! [_Pours the contents of - the phial into the goblet, goes to the window and throws out - the phial, then says, without looking at him._] Your beaker - is full. - - BENGT. - - Then bring it hither! - - MARGIT. - - [_Battling in an agony of indecision, at last says._] I pray - you drink no more to-night! - - BENGT. - - [_Leans back in his chair and laughs._] Oho! You are - impatient for my coming? Get you in; I will follow you soon. - - MARGIT. - - [_Suddenly decided._] Your beaker is full. [_Points._] There - it is. - - [_She goes quickly out to the left._ - - BENGT. - - [_Rising._] I like her well. It repents me not a whit that I - took her to wife, though of heritage she owned no more than - yonder goblet and the brooches of her wedding gown. - - [_He goes to the table at the window and takes the - goblet._ - - [_A_ HOUSE-CARL _enters hurriedly and with scared - looks, from the back._ - - HOUSE-CARL. - - [_Calls._] Sir Bengt, Sir Bengt! haste forth with all the - speed you can! Knut Gesling with an armed train is drawing - near the house. - - BENGT. - - [_Putting down the goblet._] Knut Gesling? Who brings the - tidings? - - HOUSE-CARL. - - Some of your guests espied him on the road beneath, and - hastened back to warn you. - - BENGT. - - E’en so. Then will I—! Fetch me my grandfather’s battle-axe! - - [_He and the_ HOUSE-CARL, _go out at the back._ - - [_Soon after,_ GUDMUND _and_ SIGNË _enter quietly and - cautiously by the door on the right._ - - SIGNË. - [_In muffled tones._] - - It must, then, be so! - - GUDMUND. - [_Also softly._] - - Necessity’s might - Constrains us. - - SIGNË. - - Oh! thus under cover of night - To steal from the valley where I was born! - - [_Dries her eyes._ - - Yet shalt thou hear no plaint forlorn. - ’Tis for thy sake my home I flee; - Wert thou not outlawed, Gudmund dear, - I’d stay with my sister. - - GUDMUND. - - Only to be - Ta’en by Knut Gesling, with bow and spear, - Swung on the croup of his battle-horse, - And made his wife by force. - - SIGNË. - - Quick, let us flee. But whither go? - - GUDMUND. - - Down by the fiord a friend I know; - He’ll find us a ship. O’er the salt sea foam - We’ll sail away south to Denmark’s bowers. - There waits you there a happy home; - Right joyously will fleet the hours; - The fairest of flowers they bloom in the shade - Of the beech-tree glade. - - SIGNË. - [_Bursts into tears._] - - Farewell, my poor sister! Like mother tender - Thou hast guarded the ways my feet have trod, - Hast guided my footsteps, aye praying to God, - The Almighty, to be my defender.— - Gudmund—here is a goblet filled with mead; - Let us drink to her; let us wish that ere long - Her soul may again be calm and strong, - And that God may be good to her need. - - [_She takes the goblet into her hands._ - - GUDMUND. - - Aye, let us drain it, naming her name! - - [_Starts._ - - Stop! [_Takes the goblet from her._ - For meseems it is the same— - - SIGNË. - - ’Tis Margit’s beaker. - - GUDMUND. - - [_Examining it carefully._] - - By Heaven, ’tis so! - I mind me still of the red wine’s glow - As she drank from it on the day we parted - To our meeting again in health and glad-hearted. - To herself that draught betided woe. - No, Signë, ne’er drink wine or mead - From that goblet. - - [_Pours its contents out at the window._ - - We must away with all speed. - - [_Tumult and calls without, at the back._ - - SIGNË. - - List, Gudmund! Voices and trampling feet! - - GUDMUND. - - Knut Gesling’s voice! - - SIGNË. - - O save us, Lord! - - GUDMUND. - [_Places himself in front of her._] - - Nay, nay, fear nothing, Signë sweet— - I am here, and my good sword. - - [MARGIT _comes in in haste from the left._ - - MARGIT. - - [_Listening to the noise._] What means this? Is my husband—? - - GUDMUND AND SIGNË. - - Margit! - - MARGIT. - - [_Catches sight of them._] Gudmund! And Signë! Are you here? - - SIGNË. - - [_Going towards her._] Margit—dear sister! - - MARGIT. - - [_Appalled, having seen the goblet which GUDMUND still holds - in his hand._] The goblet! Who has drunk from it? - - GUDMUND. - - [_Confused._] Drunk—? I and Signë—we meant— - - MARGIT. - - [_Screams._] O God, have mercy! Help! Help! They will die. - - GUDMUND. - - [_Setting down the goblet._] Margit—! - - SIGNË. - - What ails you, sister? - - MARGIT. - - [_Towards the back._] Help, help! Will no one help? - - [_A_ HOUSE-CARL _rushes in from the passage-way._ - - HOUSE-CARL. - - [_Calls in a terrified voice._] Lady Margit! Your husband—! - - MARGIT. - - He—has he, too, drunk—! - - GUDMUND. - - [_To himself._] Ah! now I understand— - - HOUSE-CARL. - - Knut Gesling has slain him. - - SIGNË. - - Slain! - - GUDMUND. - - [_Drawing his sword._] Not yet, I hope. [_Whispers to_ - MARGIT.] Fear not. No one has drunk from your goblet. - - MARGIT. - - Then thanks be to God, who has saved us all! - - [_She sinks down on a chair to the left._ GUDMUND - _hastens towards the door at the back._ - - ANOTHER HOUSE-CARL. - - [_Enters, stopping him._] You come too late. Sir Bengt is - dead. - - GUDMUND. - - Too late, then, too late. - - HOUSE-CARL. - - The guests and your men have prevailed against the murderous - crew. Knut Gesling and his men are prisoners. Here they - come. - - [GUDMUND’S _men, and a number of_ GUESTS _and_ - HOUSE-CARLS, _lead in_ KNUT GESLING, ERIK OF - HEGGË, _and several of_ KNUT’S _men, bound_. - - KNUT. - - [_Who is pale, says in a low voice._] Manslayer, Gudmund. - What say you to that? - - GUDMUND. - - Knut, Knut, what have you done? - - ERIK. - - ’Twas a mischance, of that I can take my oath. - - KNUT. - - He ran at me swinging his axe; I meant but to defend myself, - and struck the death-blow unawares. - - ERIK. - - Many here saw all that befell. - - KNUT. - - Lady Margit, crave what fine you will. I am ready to pay it. - - MARGIT. - - I crave naught. God will judge us all. Yet stay—one thing I - require. Forgo your evil design upon my sister. - - KNUT. - - Never again shall I essay to redeem my baleful pledge. From - this day onward I am a better man. Yet would I fain escape - dishonourable punishment for my deed. [_To_ GUDMUND.] Should - you be restored to favour and place again, say a good word - for me to the King! - - GUDMUND. - - I? Ere the sun sets, I must have left the country. - - [_Astonishment amongst the_ GUESTS. ERIK, _in whispers, - explains the situation._ - - MARGIT. - - [_To_ GUDMUND.] You go? And Signë with you? - - SIGNË. - - [_Beseechingly._] Margit! - - MARGIT. - - Good fortune follow you both! - - SIGNË. - - [_Flinging her arms round_ MARGIT’S _neck._] - - Dear sister! - - GUDMUND. - - Margit, I thank you. And now farewell. [_Listening._] Hush! - I hear the tramp of hoofs in the court-yard. - - SIGNË. - - [_Apprehensively._] Strangers have arrived. - - [_A_ HOUSE-CARL _appears in the doorway at the back._ - - HOUSE-CARL. - - The King’s men are without. They seek Gudmund Alfson. - - SIGNË. - - Oh God! - - MARGIT. - - [_In great alarm._] The King’s men! - - GUDMUND. - - All is at an end, then. Oh Signë, to lose you now—could - there be a harder fate? - - KNUT. - - Nay, Gudmund; sell your life dearly, man! Unbind us; we are - ready to fight for you, one and all. - - ERIK. - - [_Looks out._] ’Twould be in vain; they are too many for us. - - SIGNË. - - Here they come. Oh Gudmund, Gudmund! - - [_The_ KING’S MESSENGER _enters from the back, with his - escort._ - - MESSENGER. - - In the King’s name I seek you, Gudmund Alfson, and bring you - his behests. - - GUDMUND. - - Be it so. Yet am I guiltless; I swear it by all that is - holy! - - MESSENGER. - - We know it. - - GUDMUND. - - What say you? - - [_Agitation amongst those present._ - - MESSENGER. - - I am ordered to bid you as a guest to the King’s house. His - friendship is yours as it was before, and along with it he - bestows on you rich fiefs. - - GUDMUND. - - Signë! - - SIGNË. - - Gudmund! - - GUDMUND. - - But tell me—? - - MESSENGER. - - Your enemy, the Chancellor Audun Hugleikson, has fallen. - - GUDMUND. - - The Chancellor! - - GUESTS. - - [_To each other, in a half-whisper._] Fallen! - - MESSENGER. - - Three days ago he was beheaded at Bergen. [_Lowering his - voice._] His offence was against Norway’s Queen. - - MARGIT. - - [_Placing herself between_ GUDMUND _and_ SIGNË.] - - Thus punishment treads on the heels of crime! - Protecting angels, loving and bright, - Have looked down in mercy on me to-night, - And come to my rescue while yet it was time. - Now know I that life’s most precious treasure - Is nor worldly wealth nor earthly pleasure, - I have felt the remorse, the terror I know, - Of those who wantonly peril their soul, - To St. Sunniva’s cloister forthwith I go.— - - [_Before_ GUDMUND _and_ SIGNË _can speak._ - - Nay: think not to move me or control. - - [_Places_ SIGNË’S _hand in_ GUDMUND’S. - - Take her then, Gudmund, and make her your bride. - Your union is holy; God’s on your side. - - [_Waving farewell, she goes towards the doorway on - the left._ GUDMUND _and_ SIGNË _follow her, she - stops them with a motion of her hand, goes out, - and shuts the door behind her. At this moment - the sun rises and sheds its light into the - hall._ - - GUDMUND. - - Signë—my wife! See, the morning glow! - ’Tis the morning of our young love. Rejoice! - - SIGNË. - - All my fairest of dreams and of memories I owe - To the strains of thy harp and the sound of thy voice. - My noble minstrel, to joy or sadness - Tune thou that harp as seems thee best; - There are chords, believe me, within my breast - To answer to thine, or of woe or of gladness. - - CHORUS OF MEN AND WOMEN. - - Over earth keeps watch the eye of light, - Guardeth lovingly the good man’s ways, - Sheddeth round him its consoling rays;— - Praise be to the Lord in heaven’s height! - ------ - -Footnote 24: - - This no doubt means a sort of arcaded veranda running - along the outer wall of the house. - -Footnote 25: - - A contest in impromptu verse-making. - ------ - - - - - LOVE’S COMEDY - - - - - PERSONS OF THE COMEDY - - MRS. HALM, _widow of a government official._ - SVANHILD, } _her daughters._ - ANNA, } - FALK, _a young author_, } _her boarders._ - LIND, _a divinity student_,} - GULDSTAD, _a wholesale merchant._ - STIVER, _a law-clerk._ - MISS JAY, _his fiancée._ - STRAWMAN, _a country clergyman._ - MRS. STRAWMAN, _his wife._ - STUDENTS, GUESTS, MARRIED AND PLIGHTED PAIRS. - THE STRAWMANS’ EIGHT LITTLE GIRLS. - FOUR AUNTS, A PORTER, DOMESTIC SERVANTS. - - ------- - - SCENE.—_Mrs. Halm’s Villa on the Drammensvejen at - Christiania._ - - - - - LOVE’S COMEDY - PLAY IN THREE ACTS - - - ACT FIRST - - _The_ SCENE _represents a pretty garden irregularly but - tastefully laid out; in the background are seen the - fjord and the islands. To the left is the house, with a - verandah and an open dormer window above; to the right - in the foreground an open summer-house with a table and - benches. The landscape lies in bright afternoon - sunshine. It is early summer; the fruit-trees are in - flower_. - - _When the Curtain rises_, MRS. HALM, ANNA, _and_ MISS JAY - _are sitting on the verandah, the first two engaged in - embroidery, the last with a book. In the summer-house - are seen_ FALK, LIND, GULDSTAD, _and_ STIVER: _a - punch-bowl and glasses are on the table._ SVANHILD _sits - alone in the background by the water._ - - FALK [_rises, lifts his glass, and sings_]. - - Sun-glad day in garden shady - Was but made for thy delight: - What though promises of May-day - Be annulled by Autumn’s blight? - Apple-blossom white and splendid - Drapes thee in its glowing tent,— - Let it, then, when day is ended, - Strew the closes storm-besprent. - - CHORUS OF GENTLEMEN. - - Let it, then, when day is ended, etc. - - FALK. - - Wherefore seek the harvest’s guerdon - While the tree is yet in bloom? - Wherefore drudge beneath the burden - Of an unaccomplished doom? - Wherefore let the scarecrow clatter - Day and night upon the tree? - Brothers mine, the sparrows’ chatter - Has a cheerier melody. - - CHORUS. - - Brothers mine, the sparrow’s chatter, etc. - - FALK. - - Happy songster! Wherefore scare him - From our blossom-laden bower? - Rather for his music spare him - All our future, flower by flower; - Trust me, ’twill be cheaply buying - Present song with future fruit; - List the proverb, “Time is flying;—” - Soon our garden music’s mute. - - CHORUS. - - List the proverb, etc. - - FALK. - - I will live in song and gladness,— - Then, when every bloom is shed, - Sweep together, scarce in sadness, - All that glory, wan and dead: - Fling the gates wide! Bruise and batter, - Tear and trample, hoof and tusk; - I have plucked the flower, what matter - Who devours the withered husk! - - CHORUS. - - I have plucked the flower, etc. - - [_They clink and empty their glasses._ - - FALK [_to the ladies_]. - - There—that’s the song you asked me for; but pray - Be lenient to it—I can’t think to-day. - - GULDSTAD. - - Oh, never mind the sense—the sound’s the thing. - - MISS JAY [_looking round_]. - - But Svanhild, who was eagerest to hear—? - When Falk began, she suddenly took wing - And vanished— - - ANNA [_pointing towards the back_]. - - No, for there she sits—I see her. - - MRS. HALM [_sighing_]. - - That child! Heaven knows, she’s past my comprehending! - - MISS JAY. - - But, Mr. Falk, I thought the lyric’s ending - Was not so rich in—well, in poetry, - As others of the stanzas seemed to be. - - STIVER. - - Why yes, and I am sure it could not tax - Your powers to get a little more inserted— - - FALK [_clinking glasses with him_]. - - You cram it in, like putty into cracks, - Till lean is into streaky fat converted. - - STIVER [_unruffled_]. - - Yes, nothing easier—I, too, in my day - Could do the trick. - - GULDSTAD. - - Dear me! Were you a poet? - - MISS JAY. - - My Stiver! Yes! - - STIVER. - - Oh, in a humble way. - - MISS JAY [_to the ladies_]. - - His nature is romantic. - - MRS. HALM. - - Yes, we know it. - - STIVER. - - Not now; it’s ages since I turned a rhyme. - - FALK. - - Yes, varnish and romance go off with time. - But in the old days—? - - STIVER. - - Well, you see, ’twas when - I was in love. - - FALK. - - Is that time over, then? - Have you slept off the sweet intoxication? - - STIVER. - - I’m now _engaged_—I hold official station— - That’s better than in love, I apprehend! - - FALK. - - Quite so! You’re in the right, my good old friend. - The worst is past—_vous voilà bien avancé_— - Promoted from mere lover to _fiancé_. - - STIVER [_with a smile of complacent recollection_]. - - It’s strange to think of it—upon my word, - I half suspect my memory of lying— - - [_Turns to_ FALK. - - But seven years ago—it sounds absurd!— - I wasted office hours in versifying. - - FALK. - - What! Office hours—! - - STIVER. - - Yes, such were my transgressions. - - GULDSTAD [_ringing on his glass_]. - - Silence for our solicitor’s confessions! - - STIVER. - - But chiefly after five, when I was free, - I’d rattle off whole reams of poetry— - Ten—fifteen folios ere I went to bed— - - FALK. - - I see—you gave your Pegasus his head, - And off he tore— - - STIVER. - - On stamped or unstamped paper— - ’Twas all the same to him—he’d prance and caper— - - FALK. - - The spring of poetry flowed no less flush? - But how, pray, did you teach it first to gush? - - STIVER. - - By aid of love’s divining-rod, my friend! - Miss Jay it was that taught me where to bore, - My _fiancée_—she became so in the end— - For then she was— - - FALK. - - Your love and nothing more. - - STIVER [_continuing_]. - - ’Twas a strange time; I could not read a bit; - I tuned my pen instead of pointing it; - And when along the foolscap sheet it raced, - It twangled music to the words I traced;— - At last by letter I declared my flame - To her—to her— - - FALK. - - Whose _fiancé_ you became. - - STIVER. - - In course of post her answer came to hand— - The motion granted—judgment in my favour! - - FALK. - - And you felt bigger, as you wrote, and braver, - To find you’d brought your venture safe to land! - - STIVER. - - Of course. - - FALK. - - And then you bade the Muse farewell? - - STIVER. - - I’ve felt no lyric impulse, truth to tell, - From that day forth. My vein appeared to peter - Entirely out; and now, if I essay - To turn a verse or two for New Year’s Day, - I make the veriest hash of rhyme and metre, - And—I’ve no notion what the cause can be— - It turns to law and not to poetry. - - GULDSTAD [_clinks glasses with him_]. - - And, trust me, you’re no whit the worse for that! - - [_To_ FALK. - - You think the stream of life is flowing solely - To bear you to the goal you’re aiming at— - But you may find yourself mistaken wholly. - As for your song, perhaps it’s most poetic, - Perhaps it’s not—on that point we won’t quarrel— - But here I lodge a protest energetic, - Say what you will, against its wretched moral. - A masterly economy and new - To let the birds play havoc at their pleasure - Among your fruit-trees, fruitless now for you, - And suffer flocks and herds to trample through - Your garden, and lay waste its springtide treasure! - A pretty prospect, truly, for next year! - - FALK. - - Oh, next, next, next! The thought I loathe and fear - That these four letters timidly express— - It beggars millionaires in happiness! - If I could be the autocrat of speech - But for one hour, that hateful word I’d banish; - I’d send it packing out of mortal reach, - As B and G from Knudsen’s Grammar vanish. - - STIVER. - - Why should the word of hope enrage you thus? - - FALK. - - Because it darkens God’s fair earth for us. - “Next year,” “next love,” “next life,”—my soul is vext - To see this world in thraldom to “the next.” - ’Tis this dull forethought, bent on future prizes, - That millionaires in gladness pauperises. - Far as the eye can reach, it blurs the age; - All rapture of the moment it destroys; - No one dares taste in peace life’s simplest joys - Until he’s struggled on another stage— - And there arriving, can he there repose? - No—to a new “next” off he flies again; - On, on, unresting, to the grave he goes; - And God knows if there’s any resting then. - - MISS JAY. - - Fie, Mr. Falk, such sentiments are shocking. - - ANNA [_pensively_]. - - Oh, I can understand the feeling quite; - I am sure at bottom Mr. Falk is right. - - MISS JAY [_perturbed_]. - - My Stiver mustn’t listen to his mocking. - He’s rather too eccentric even now.— - My dear, I want you. - - STIVER [_occupied in cleaning his pipe_]. - - Presently, my dear. - - GULDSTAD [_to_ FALK]. - - One thing at least to me is very clear;— - And that is that you cannot but allow - Some forethought indispensable. For see, - Suppose that you to-day should write a sonnet, - And, scorning forethought, you should lavish on it - Your last reserve, your all, of poetry, - So that, to-morrow, when you set about - Your next song, you should find yourself cleaned out, - Heavens! how your friends the critics then would crow! - - FALK. - - D’you think they’d notice I was bankrupt? No! - Once beggared of ideas, I and they - Would saunter arm in arm the selfsame way— [_Breaking off._ - But Lind! why, what’s the matter with you, pray? - You sit there dumb and dreaming—I suspect you’re - Deep in the mysteries of architecture. - - LIND [_collecting himself_]. - - I? What should make you think so? - - FALK. - - I observe. - Your eyes are glued to the verandah yonder— - You’re studying, mayhap, its arches’ curve, - Or can it be its pillars’ strength you ponder, - The door perhaps, with hammered iron hinges? - The window blinds, and their artistic fringes? - From something there your glances never wander. - - LIND. - - No, you are wrong—I’m just absorbed in being— - Drunk with the hour—naught craving, naught foreseeing. - I feel as though I stood, my life complete, - With all earth’s riches scattered at my feet. - Thanks for your song of happiness and spring— - From out my inmost heart it seemed to spring. - - [_Lifts his glass and exchanges a glance, - unobserved, with_ ANNA. - - Here’s to the blossom in its fragrant pride! - What reck we of the fruit of autumn-tide? - - [_Empties his glass._ - - FALK [_looks at him with surprise and emotion, but assumes a - light tone_]. - - Behold, fair ladies! though you scorn me quite, - Here I have made an easy proselyte. - His hymn-book yesterday was all he cared for— - To-day e’en dithyrambics he’s prepared for! - We poets must be born, cries every judge; - But prose-folks, now and then, like Strasburg geese, - Gorge themselves so inhumanly obese - On rhyming balderdash and rhythmic fudge, - That, when cleaned out, their very souls are thick - With lyric lard and greasy rhetoric. - - [_To_ LIND. - - Your praise, however, I shall not forget; - We’ll sweep the lyre henceforward in duet. - - MISS JAY. - - You, Mr. Falk, are hard at work, no doubt, - Here in these rural solitudes delightful, - Where at your own sweet will you roam about— - - MRS. HALM [_smiling_]. - - Oh, no, his laziness is something frightful. - - MISS JAY. - - What! here at Mrs. Halm’s! that’s most surprising— - Surely it’s just the place for poetising— - - [_Pointing to the right._ - - That summer-house, for instance, in the wood - Sequestered, name me any place that could - Be more conducive to poetic mood— - - FALK. - - Let blindness veil the sunlight from mine eyes, - I’ll chant the splendour of the sunlit skies! - Just for a season let me beg or borrow - A great, a crushing, a stupendous sorrow, - And soon you’ll hear my hymns of gladness rise! - But best, Miss Jay, to nerve my wings for flight, - Find me a maid to be my life, my light— - For that incitement long to Heaven I’ve pleaded; - But hitherto, worse luck, it hasn’t heeded. - - MISS JAY. - - What levity! - - MRS. HALM. - - Yes, most irreverent! - - FALK. - - Pray don’t imagine it was my intent - To live with her on bread and cheese and kisses. - No! just upon the threshold of our blisses, - Kind Heaven must snatch away the gift it lent. - I need a little spiritual gymnastic; - The dose in that form surely would be drastic. - - SVANHILD. - - [_Has during the talk approached; she stands close - to the table, and says in a determined but - whimsical tone:_ - - I’ll pray that such may be your destiny. - But, when it finds you—bear it like a man. - - FALK [_turning round in surprise_]. - - Miss Svanhild!—well, I’ll do the best I can. - But think you I may trust implicitly - To finding your petitions efficacious? - Heaven, as you know, to faith alone is gracious— - And though you’ve doubtless will enough for two - To make me bid my peace of mind adieu, - Have you the faith to carry matters through? - That is the question. - - SVANHILD [_half in jest_]. - - Wait till sorrow comes, - And all your being’s springtide chills and numbs, - Wait till it gnaws and rends you, soon and late, - Then tell me if my faith is adequate. - - [_She goes across to the ladies._ - - MRS. HALM [_aside to her_]. - - Can you two never be at peace? you’ve made - Poor Mr. Falk quite angry, I’m afraid. - - [_Continues reprovingly in a low voice._ MISS JAY - _joins in the conversation._ SVANHILD _remains - cold and silent._ - - FALK [_after a pause of reflection goes over to the - summer-house, then to himself_]. - - With fullest confidence her glances lightened. - Shall I believe, as she does so securely, - That Heaven intends— - - GULDSTAD. - - No, hang it; don’t be frightened! - The powers above would be demented surely - To give effect to orders such as these. - No, my good sir—the cure for your disease - Is exercise for muscle, nerve, and sinew. - Don’t lie there wasting all the grit that’s in you - In idle dreams; cut wood, if that were all; - And then I’ll say the devil’s in’t indeed - If one brief fortnight does not find you freed - From all your whimsies high-fantastical. - - FALK. - - Fetter’d by choice, like Burnell’s ass, I ponder— - The flesh on this side, and the spirit yonder. - Which were it wiser I should go for first? - - GULDSTAD [_filling the glasses_]. - - First have some punch—that quenches ire and thirst. - - MRS. HALM [_looking at her watch_]. - - Ha! Eight o’clock! my watch is either fast, or - It’s just the time we may expect the Pastor. - - [_Rises, and puts things in order on the verandah._ - - FALK. - - What! have we parsons coming? - - MISS JAY. - - Don’t you know? - - MRS. HALM. - - I told you, just a little while ago— - - ANNA. - - No, mother—Mr. Falk had not yet come. - - MRS. HALM. - - Why no, that’s true; but pray don’t look so glum. - Trust me, you’ll be enchanted with his visit. - - FALK. - - A clerical enchanter; pray who is it? - - MRS. HALM. - - Why, Pastor Strawman, not unknown to fame. - - FALK. - - Indeed! Oh, yes, I think I’ve heard his name, - And read that in the legislative game - He comes to take a hand, with voice and vote. - - STIVER. - - He speaks superbly. - - GULDSTAD. - - When he’s cleared his throat. - - MISS JAY. - - He’s coming with his wife— - - MRS. HALM. - - And all their blessings— - - FALK. - - To give them three or four days’ treat, poor dears— - Soon he’ll be buried over head and ears - In Swedish muddles and official messings— - I see! - - MRS. HALM [_to_ FALK]. - - Now there’s a man for you, in truth! - - GULDSTAD. - - They say he was a rogue, though, in his youth. - - MISS JAY [_offended_]. - - There, Mr. Guldstad, I must break a lance! - I’ve heard as long as I can recollect, - Most worthy people speak with great respect - Of Pastor Strawman and his life’s romance. - - GULDSTAD [_laughing_]. - - Romance? - - MISS JAY. - - Romance! I call a match romantic - At which mere worldly wisdom looks askance. - - FALK. - - You make my curiosity gigantic. - - MISS JAY [_continuing_]. - - But certain people always grow splenetic— - Why, goodness knows—at everything pathetic, - And scoff it down. We all know how, of late, - An unfledged, upstart undergraduate - Presumed, with brazen insolence, to declare - That “William Russell” was a poor affair! - - FALK. - - But what has this to do with Strawman, pray? - Is he a poem, or a Christian play? - - MISS JAY [_with tears of emotion_]. - - No, Falk,—a man, with heart as large as day. - But when a—so to speak—mere lifeless thing - Can put such venom into envy’s sting, - And stir up evil passions fierce and fell - Of such a depth— - - FALK [_sympathetically_]. - - And such a length as well— - - MISS JAY. - - Why then, a man of your commanding brain - Can’t fail to see— - - FALK. - - Oh yes, that’s very plain. - But hitherto I haven’t quite made out - The nature, style, and plot of this romance. - It’s something quite delightful I’ve no doubt— - But just a little inkling in advance— - - STIVER. - - I will abstract, in rapid _résumé_, - The leading points. - - MISS JAY. - - No, I am more _au fait_, - I know the ins and outs— - - MRS. HALM. - - I know them too! - - MISS JAY. - - Oh Mrs. Halm! now let me tell it, do! - Well, Mr. Falk, you see—he passed at college - For quite a miracle of wit and knowledge, - Had admirable taste in books and dress— - - MRS. HALM. - - And acted—privately—with great success. - - MISS JAY. - - Yes, wait a bit—he painted, played and wrote— - - MRS. HALM. - - And don’t forget his gift of anecdote. - - MISS JAY. - - Do give me time; I know the whole affair: - He made some verses, set them to an air, - Also his own,—and found a publisher. - O heavens! with what romantic melancholy - He played and sang his “Madrigals to Molly”! - - MRS. HALM. - - He was a genius, that’s the simple fact. - - GULDSTAD [_to himself_]. - - Hm! Some were of opinion he was cracked. - - FALK. - - A gray old stager, whose sagacious head - Was never upon mouldy parchments fed, - Says “Love makes Petrarchs, just as many lambs - And little occupation, Abrahams.” - But who was Molly? - - MISS JAY. - - Molly? His elect, - His lady-love, whom shortly we expect. - Of a great firm her father was a member— - - GULDSTAD. - - A timber house. - - MISS JAY [_curtly_]. - - I’m really not aware. - - GULDSTAD. - - Did a large trade in scantlings, I remember. - - MISS JAY. - - That is the trivial side of the affair. - - FALK. - - A firm? - - MISS JAY [_continuing_]. - - Of vast resources, I’m informed. - You can imagine how the suitors swarm’d; - Gentlemen of the highest reputation.— - - MRS. HALM. - - Even a baronet made application. - - MISS JAY. - - But Molly was not to be made their catch. - She had met Strawman upon private stages; - To see him was to love him— - - FALK. - - And despatch - The wooing gentry home without their wages? - - MRS. HALM. - - Was it not just a too romantic match? - - MISS JAY. - - And then there was a terrible old father, - Whose sport was thrusting happy souls apart; - She had a guardian also, as I gather, - To add fresh torment to her tortured heart. - But each of them was loyal to his vow; - A straw-thatched cottage and a snow-white ewe - They dream’d of, just enough to nourish two— - - MRS. HALM. - - Or at the very uttermost a cow,— - - MISS JAY. - - In short, I’ve heard it from the lips of both,— - A beck, a byre, two bosoms, and one troth. - - FALK. - - Ah yes! And then—? - - MISS JAY. - - She broke with kin and class. - - FALK. - - She broke—? - - MRS. HALM. - - Broke with them. - - FALK. - - There’s a plucky lass! - - MISS JAY. - - And fled to Strawman’s garret— - - FALK. - - How? Without— - Ahem—the priestly consecration? - - MISS JAY. - - Shame! - - MRS. HALM. - - Fy, fy! my late beloved husband’s name - Was on the list of sponsors—! - - STIVER [_to_ MISS JAY]. - - You’re to blame - For leaving that important item out. - In a report ’tis of the utmost weight - That the chronology be accurate. - But what I never yet could comprehend - Is how on earth they managed— - - FALK. - - The one room - Not housing sheep and cattle, I presume. - - MISS JAY [_to_ STIVER]. - - O, but you must consider this, my friend; - There is no _Want_ where Love’s the guiding star; - All’s right without if tender Troth’s within. - - [_To_ FALK. - - He loved her to the notes of the guitar, - And she gave lessons on the violin— - - MRS. HALM. - - Then all, of course, on credit they bespoke— - - GULDSTAD. - - Till, in a year, the timber merchant broke. - - MRS. HALM. - - Then Strawman had a call to north. - - MISS JAY. - - And there - Vowed, in a letter that I saw (as few did), - He lived but for his duty, and for her. - - FALK [_as if completing her statement_]. - - And with those words his Life’s Romance concluded. - - MRS. HALM [_rising_]. - - How if we should go out upon the lawn, - And see if there’s no prospect of them yet? - - MISS JAY [_drawing on her mantle_]. - - It’s cool already. - - MRS. HALM. - - Svanhild, will you get - My woollen shawl?—Come ladies, pray! - - LIND [_to_ ANNA, _unobserved by the others_]. - - Go on! - - [SVANHILD _goes into the house; the others, except_ - FALK, _go towards the back and out to the left._ - LIND, _who has followed, stops and returns._ - - LIND. - - My friend! - - FALK. - - Ah, ditto. - - LIND. - - Falk, your hand! The tide - Of joy’s so vehement, it will perforce - Break out— - - FALK. - - Hullo there; you must first be tried; - Sentence and hanging follow in due course. - Now, what on earth’s the matter? To conceal - From me, your friend, this treasure of your finding; - For you’ll confess the inference is binding: - You’ve come into a prize off Fortune’s wheel! - - LIND. - - I’ve snared and taken Fortune’s blessed bird! - - FALK. - - How? Living,—and undamaged by the steel? - - LIND. - - Patience; I’ll tell the matter in one word. - I am engaged! Conceive—! - - FALK [_quickly_]. - - Engaged! - - LIND. - - It’s true. - To-day,—with unimagined courage swelling, - I said,—ahem, it will not bear re-telling;— - But only think,—the sweet young maiden grew - Quite rosy-red,—but not at all enraged! - You see, Falk, what I ventured for a bride! - She listened,—and I rather think she cried; - That, sure, means “Yes“? - - FALK. - - If precedents decide; - Go on. - - LIND. - - And so we really are—engaged? - - FALK. - - I should conclude so; but the only way - To be quite certain, is to ask Miss Jay. - - LIND. - - O no, I feel so confident, so clear! - So perfectly assured, and void of fear. - - [_Radiantly, in a mysterious tone._ - - Hark! I had leave her fingers to caress - When from the coffee-board she drew the cover. - - FALK [_lifting and emptying his glass_]. - - Well, flowers of spring your wedding garland dress! - - LIND [_doing the same_]. - - And here I swear by heaven that I will love her - Until I die, with love as infinite - As now glows in me,—for she is so sweet! - - FALK. - - Engaged! Aha, so that was why you flung - The Holy Law and Prophets on the shelf! - - LIND [_laughing_]. - - And you believed it was the song you sung—! - - FALK. - - A poet believes all things of himself. - - LIND [_seriously_]. - - Don’t think, however, Falk, that I dismiss - The theologian from my hour of bliss. - Only, I find the Book will not suffice - As Jacob’s ladder unto Paradise. - I must into God’s world, and seek Him there. - A boundless kindness in my heart upsprings, - I love the straw, I love the creeping things; - They also in my joy shall have a share. - - FALK. - - Yes, only tell me this, though— - - LIND. - - I have told it,— - My precious secret, and our three hearts hold it! - - FALK. - - But have you thought about the future? - - LIND. - - Thought? - I?—thought about the future? No, from this - Time forth I live but in the hour that is. - In home shall all my happiness be sought; - We hold Fate’s reins, we drive her hither, thither, - And neither friend nor mother shall have right - To say unto my budding blossom: Wither! - For I am earnest and her eyes are bright, - And so it must unfold into the light! - - FALK. - - Yes, Fortune likes you, you will serve her turn! - - LIND. - - My spirits like wild music glow and burn; - I feel myself a Titan: though a foss - Opened before me—I would leap across! - - FALK. - - Your love, you mean to say, in simple prose, - Has made a reindeer of you. - - LIND. - - Well, suppose; - But in my wildest flight, I know the nest - In which my heart’s dove longs to be at rest! - - FALK. - - Well then, to-morrow it may fly _con brio_; - You’re off into the hills with the quartette. - I’ll guarantee you against cold and wet— - - LIND. - - Pooh, the quartette may go and climb in _trio_, - The lowly dale has mountain air for me; - Here I’ve the immeasurable fjord, the flowers, - Here I have warbling birds and choral bowers; - And lady Fortune’s self,—for here is _she_! - - FALK. - - Ah, lady Fortune by our Northern water - Is _rara avis_,—hold her if you’ve caught her! - - [_With a glance towards the house._ - - Hist—Svanhild— - - LIND. - - Well; I go,—disclose to none - The secret that we share alone with one. - ’Twas good of you to listen: now enfold it - Deep in your heart,—warm, glowing, as I told it. - - [_He goes out in the background to the others._ FALK - _looks after him a moment, and paces up and down - in the garden, visibly striving to master his - agitation. Presently_ SVANHILD _comes out with a - shawl on her arm, and is going towards the - back_. FALK _approaches and gazes at her - fixedly._ SVANHILD _stops._ - - SVANHILD [_after a short pause_]. - - You gaze so at me! - - FALK [_half to himself_]. - - Yes, ’tis _there_—the same; - The shadow in her eyes’ deep mirror sleeping, - The roguish elf about her lips a-peeping, - It is there. - - SVANHILD. - - _What_? You frighten me. - - FALK. - - Your name - Is Svanhild? - - SVANHILD. - - Yes, you know it very well. - - FALK. - - But do _you_ know the name is laughable? - I beg you to discard it from to-night! - - SVANHILD. - - That would be far beyond a daughter’s right— - - FALK [_laughing_]. - - Hm. “Svanhild! Svanhild!” - - [_With sudden gravity._ - - With your earliest breath - How came you by this prophecy of death? - - SVANHILD. - - Is it so grim? - - FALK. - - No, lovely as a song, - But for our age too great and stern and strong, - How can a modern demoiselle fill out - The ideal that heroic name expresses? - No, no, discard it with your outworn dresses. - - SVANHILD. - - You mean the mythical princess, no doubt— - - FALK. - - Who, guiltless, died beneath the horse’s feet. - - SVANHILD. - - But now such acts are clearly obsolete. - No, no, I’ll mount his saddle! There’s my place! - How often have I dreamt, in pensive ease, - He bore me, buoyant, through the world apace, - His mane a flag of freedom in the breeze! - - FALK. - - Yes, the old tale. In “pensive ease” no mortal - Is stopped by thwarting bar or cullis’d portal; - Fearless we cleave the ether without bound; - In practice, tho’, we shrewdly hug the ground; - For all love life and, having choice, will choose it; - And no man dares to leap where he may lose it. - - SVANHILD. - - Yes! show me but the end, I’ll spurn the shore; - But let the end be worth the leaping for! - A Ballarat beyond the desert sands— - Else each will stay exactly where he stands. - - FALK [_sarcastically_]. - - I grasp the case;—the due conditions fail. - - SVANHILD [_eagerly_]. - - Exactly: what’s the use of spreading sail - When there is not a breath of wind astir? - - FALK [_ironically_]. - - Yes, what’s the use of plying whip and spur - When there is not a penny of reward - For him who tears him from the festal board, - And mounts, and dashes headlong to perdition? - Such doing for the deed’s sake asks a knight, - And knighthood’s now an idle superstition. - That was your meaning, possibly? - - SVANHILD. - - Quite right. - Look at that fruit tree in the orchard close,— - No blossom on its barren branches blows. - You should have seen last year with what brave airs - It staggered underneath its world of pears. - - FALK [_uncertain_]. - - No doubt, but what’s the moral you impute? - - SVANHILD [_with finesse_]. - - O, among other things, the bold unreason - Of modern Zacharies who seek for fruit. - If the tree blossom’d to excess last season, - You must not crave the blossoms back in this. - - FALK. - - I knew you’d find your footing in the ways - Of old Romance. - - SVANHILD. - - Yes, modern virtue is - Of quite another stamp. Who now arrays - Himself to battle for the truth? Who’ll stake - His life and person fearless for truth’s sake? - Where is the hero? - - FALK [_looking keenly at her_]. - - Where is the Valkyria? - - SVANHILD [_shaking her head_]. - - Valkyrias find no market in this land! - When the faith lately was assailed in Syria, - Did you go out with the crusader-band? - No, but on paper you were warm and willing,— - And sent the “Clerical Gazette” a shilling. - - [_Pause._ FALK _is about to retort, but checks - himself, and goes into the garden._ - - SVANHILD. - - [_After watching him a moment, approaches him and - asks gently:_ - - Falk, are you angry? - - FALK. - - No, I only brood,— - - SVANHILD [_with thoughtful sympathy_]. - - You seem to be two natures, still at feud,— - Unreconciled— - - FALK. - - I know it well. - - SVANHILD [_impetuously_]. - - But why? - - FALK [_losing self-control_]. - - Why, why? Because I hate to go about - With soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye, - As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out; - To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve, - Like women in low dresses. You, alone, - Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,— - Well, it is past, _that_ dream, for ever flown.— - - [_She goes to the summer-house and looks out; he - follows._ - - You listen—? - - SVANHILD. - - To another voice, that sings. - Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest, - A little bird floats hither on beating wings,— - See there—it darted from its leafy nest— - And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oft - As God makes any songless soul, He sends - A little bird to be her friend of friends, - And sing for ever in her garden-croft. - - FALK [_picking up a stone_]. - - Then must the owner and the bird be near, - Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear. - - SVANHILD. - - Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine. - Of speech and song I am denied the power, - But when it warbles in its leafy bower, - Poems flow in upon my brain like wine— - Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won— - - [FALK _throws the stone._ SVANHILD _screams._ - - O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done! - - [_She hurries out to the right and then quickly - returns._ - - O pity! pity! - - FALK [_in passionate agitation_]. - - No,—but eye for eye, - Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attend - No further greetings from your garden-friend, - No guerdon from the land of melody. - That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay. - - SVANHILD. - - I slew? - - FALK. - - You slew. Until this very day, - A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul; - See,—now one passing bell for both may toll— - You’ve killed it! - - SVANHILD. - - Have I? - - FALK. - - Yes, for you have slain - My young, high-hearted, joyous exultation— - - [_Contemptuously._ - - By your betrothal! - - SVANHILD. - - How! But pray, explain—! - - FALK. - - O, it’s in full accord with expectation; - He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds to - A post,—as missionary in the West— - - SVANHILD [_in the same tone_]. - - A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;— - For it is Lind you speak of—? - - FALK. - - You know best - Of whom I speak. - - SVANHILD [_with a subdued smile_]. - - As the bride’s sister, true, - I cannot help— - - FALK. - - Great God! It is not you—? - - SVANHILD. - - Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no! - - FALK [_with almost childish joy_]. - - It is not you! O God be glorified! - What love, what mercy does He not bestow! - I shall not see you as another’s bride;— - ’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear— - - [_Tries to seize her hand._ - - O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then— - - SVANHILD [_pointing quickly to the background_]. - - See there! - - [_She goes towards the house. At the same moment_ - MRS. HALM, ANNA, MISS JAY, GULDSTAD, STIVER, - _and_ LIND _emerge from the background. During - the previous scene the sun has set; it is now - dark._ - - MRS. HALM [_to_ SVANHILD]. - - The Strawmans may be momently expected. - Where have you been? - - MISS JAY [_after glancing at_ FALK]. - - Your colour’s very high. - - SVANHILD. - - A little face-ache; it will soon pass by. - - MRS. HALM. - - And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected? - Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready; - Let everything be nice; I know the lady. - - [SVANHILD _goes in._ - - STIVER [_to_ FALK]. - - What is the colour of this parson’s coat? - - FALK. - - I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote. - - STIVER. - - How if one made allusion to the store - Of verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer? - - FALK. - - It might do something. - - STIVER. - - Would to heaven it might! - Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light. - Courtship’s a very serious affair. - - FALK. - - Just so: “_Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?_” - - STIVER. - - Is courtship a “galère”? - - FALK. - - No, married lives;— - All servitude, captivity, and gyves. - - STIVER [_seeing_ MISS JAY _approach_]. - - You little know what wealth a man obtains - From woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains. - - MISS JAY [_aside to_ STIVER]. - - Will Guldstad give us credit, think you? - - STIVER [_peevishly_]; - - I - Am not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try. - - [_They withdraw in conversation;_ LIND _and_ ANNA - _approach._ - - LIND [_aside to_ FALK]. - - I can’t endure it longer; in post-haste - I must present her— - - FALK. - - You had best refrain, - And not initiate the eye profane - Into your mysteries— - - LIND. - - That would be a jest!— - From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate, - To keep concealed my new-found happy state! - Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed— - - FALK. - - You think the occasion good to get it _curled_? - Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed; - Go and announce your union to the world! - - LIND. - - Other reflections also weigh with me, - And one of more especial gravity; - Say that there lurked among our motley band - Some sneaking, sly pretender to her hand; - Say, his attentions became undisguised,— - We should be disagreeably compromised. - - FALK. - - Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind, - You for a higher office were designed, - Love as his young licentiate has retained you; - Shortly you’ll get a permanent position; - But it would be defying all tradition - If at the present moment he ordained you. - - LIND. - - Yes if the merchant does not— - - FALK. - - What of him? - - ANNA [_troubled_]. - - Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim. - - LIND. - - Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the man - Will rob me of my treasure, if he can. - The fellow, as we know, comes daily down, - Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town; - In short, my own, regard it as we will, - There are a thousand things that bode us ill. - - ANNA [_sighing_]. - - Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious! - - FALK [_sympathetically to_ LIND]. - - Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious, - Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose— - - ANNA. - - Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still! - - [_She and_ LIND _withdraw in different directions._ - - FALK [_looking after_ LIND]. - - So to the ruin of his youth he goes. - - GULDSTAD. - - [_Who has meantime been conversing on the steps - with_ MRS. HALM _and_ MISS JAY, _approaches_ - FALK _and slaps him on the shoulder._ - - Well, brooding on a poem? - - FALK. - - No, a play. - - GULDSTAD. - - The deuce;—I never heard it was your line. - - FALK. - - O no, the author is a friend of mine, - And your acquaintance also, I daresay. - The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt. - Only imagine, in a single day - He’s worked a perfect little Idyll out. - - GULDSTAD [_slily_]. - - With happy ending, doubtless! - - FALK. - - You’re aware, - No curtain falls but on a plighted pair. - Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned; - But now the poet’s labour-throes begin; - The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second, - Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin, - And of that staple, finally, compose - Part Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose. - - GULDSTAD [_smiling_]. - - The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem. - - FALK. - - Really? How so, pray? - - GULDSTAD. - - Since I also pore - And ponder over a poetic scheme,— - - [_Mysteriously._ - - An actuality—and not a dream. - - FALK. - - And pray, who is the hero of your theme? - - GULDSTAD. - - I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before. - - FALK. - - It is yourself! - - GULDSTAD. - - You think me equal to it? - - FALK. - - I’m sure no other mortal man could do it. - But then the heroine? No city maid, - I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm? - - GULDSTAD [_lifting his finger_]. - - Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!— - - [_Changing his tone._ - - Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm. - - FALK. - - O you’re best able to pronounce upon her; - My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,— - - [_Smiling._ - - But just take care no mischief-maker blot - This fine poetic scheme of which you talk. - Suppose I were so shameless as to balk - The meditated climax of the plot? - - GULDSTAD [_good-naturedly_]. - - Well, I would cry “Amen,” and change my plan. - - FALK. - - What! - - GULDSTAD. - - Why, you see, you are a letter’d man; - How monstrous were it if your skill’d design - Were ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine! - - [_Retires to the background._ - - FALK [_in passing, to_ LIND]. - - Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really scheming - The ruin of your new-won happiness. - - LIND [_aside to_ ANNA]. - - Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming; - We’ll go this very moment and confess. - - [_They approach_ MRS. HALM, _who is standing with_ - MISS JAY _by the house._ - - GULDSTAD [_conversing with_ STIVER]. - - ’Tis a fine evening. - - STIVER. - - Very likely,—when - A man’s disposed— - - GULDSTAD [_facetiously_]. - - What, all not running smooth - In true love’s course? - - STIVER. - - Not that exactly— - - FALK [_coming up_]. - - Then - With your engagement? - - STIVER. - - That’s about the truth. - - FALK. - - Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groat - Or two still left, it seems, of poetry. - - STIVER [_stiffly_]. - - I cannot see what poetry has got - To do with my engagement, or with me. - - FALK. - - You are not meant to see; when lovers prove - What love is, all is over with their love. - - GULDSTAD [_to_ STIVER]. - - But if there’s matter for adjustment, pray - Let’s hear it. - - STIVER. - - I’ve been pondering all day - Whether the thing is proper to disclose, - But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes. - - FALK. - - I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever since - As plighted lover you were first installed, - You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled— - - STIVER. - - And sometimes to the quick. - - FALK. - - You’ve had to wince - Beneath a crushing load of obligations - That you’d send packing, if good form permitted. - That’s what’s the matter. - - STIVER. - - Monstrous accusations! - My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted; - But other bonds next month are falling due; - - [_To_ GULDSTAD. - - When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife— - - FALK [_triumphant_]. - - Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue, - There rang an echo from your old song-life! - That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’; - Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife! - - STIVER. - - A knife? - - FALK. - - Yes, Resolution’s knife, to sever - Each captive bond, and set you free for ever, - To soar— - - STIVER [_angrily_]. - - Nay, now you’re insolent beyond - Endurance! Me to charge with violation - Of law,—me, me with plotting to abscond! - It’s libellous, malicious defamation, - Insult and calumny— - - FALK. - - Are you insane? - What is all this about? Explain! Explain! - - GULDSTAD [_laughingly to_ STIVER]. - - Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash! - What do you want? - - STIVER [_pulling himself together_]. - - A trifling loan in cash. - - FALK. - - A loan! - - STIVER [_hurriedly to_ GULDSTAD]. - - That is, I mean to say, you know, - A voucher for a ten pound note, or so. - - MISS JAY [_to_ LIND _and_ ANNA]. - - I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious! - - GULDSTAD [_going up to the ladies_]. - - Pray what has happened? - - [_To himself_.] This was unpropitious. - - FALK [_throws his arms about_ STIVER’S _neck_]. - - Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaim - A brother born to you in Amor’s name! - - [_Drags him to the others._ - - MISS JAY [_to the gentlemen_]. - - Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts, - Affianced lovers! - - MRS. HALM [_with tears of emotion_]. - - ’Tis the eighth in order Who - well-provided from this house departs; - - [_To_ FALK. - - Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder— - - [_Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes._ - - MISS JAY [_to_ ANNA]. - - Well, there will come a flood of gratulation! - - [_Caresses her with emotion_. - - LIND [_seizing_ FALK’S _hand_]. - - My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication! - - FALK. - - Hold! As a plighted man you are a member - Of Rapture’s Temperance-association. - Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember! - - [_Turning to_ GULDSTAD _sympathetically._ - - Well, my good sir! - - GULDSTAD [_beaming with pleasure_]. - - I think this promises - All happiness for both. - - FALK [_staring at him_]. - - You seem to stand - The shock with exemplary self-command. - That’s well. - - GULDSTAD. - - What do you mean, sir? - - FALK. - - Only this; - That inasmuch as you appeared to feed - Fond expectations of your own— - - GULDSTAD. - - Indeed? - - FALK. - - At any rate, you were upon the scent. - You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spot - And asked me— - - GULDSTAD [_smiling_]. - - There are two, though, are there not? - - FALK. - - It was—the other sister that you meant? - - GULDSTAD. - - _That_ sister, yes, the other one,—just so. - Judge for yourself, when you have come to know - That sister better, if she has not in her - Merits which, if they were divined, would win her - A little more regard than we bestow. - - FALK [_coldly_]. - - Her virtues are of every known variety - I’m sure. - - GULDSTAD. - - Not quite; the accent of society - She cannot hit exactly; there she loses. - - FALK. - - A grievous fault. - - GULDSTAD. - - But if her mother chooses - To spend a winter on her, she’ll come out of it - Queen of them all, I’ll wager. - - FALK. - - Not a doubt of it. - - GULDSTAD [_laughing_]. - - Young women are odd creatures, to be sure! - - FALK [_gaily_]. - - Like winter rye-seed, canopied secure - By frost and snow, invisibly they sprout. - - GULDSTAD. - - Then in the festive ball-room bedded out— - - FALK. - - With equivoque and scandal for manure— - - GULDSTAD. - - And when the April sun shines— - - FALK. - - There the blade is; - The seed shot up in mannikin green ladies! - - [LIND _comes up and seizes_ FALK’S _hand._ - - LIND. - - How well I chose,—past understanding well;— - I feel a bliss that nothing can dispel. - - GULDSTAD. - - There stands your mistress; tell us, if you can, - The right demeanor for a plighted man. - - LIND [_perturbed_]. - - That’s a third person’s business to declare. - - GULDSTAD [_joking_]. - - Ill-tempered! This to Anna’s ears I’ll bear. - - [_Goes to the ladies._ - - LIND [_looking after him_]. - - Can such a man be tolerated? - - FALK. - - You - Mistook his aim, however,— - - LIND. - - And how so? - - FALK. - - It was not Anna that he had in view. - - LIND. - - How, was it Svanhild? - - FALK. - - Well, I hardly know. - - [_Whimsically._ - - Forgive me, martyr to another’s cause! - - LIND. - - What do you mean? - - FALK. - - You’ve read the news to-night? - - LIND. - - No. - - FALK. - - Do so. There ’tis told in black and white - Of one who, ill-luck’s bitter counsel taking, - Had his sound teeth extracted from his jaws - Because his cousin-german’s teeth were aching. - - MISS JAY [_looking out to the left_]. - - Here comes the priest! - - MRS. HALM. - - Now see a man of might! - - STIVER. - - Five children, six, seven, eight— - - FALK. - - And, heavens, all recent! - - MISS JAY. - - Ugh! it is almost to be called indecent. - - [_A carriage has meantime been heard stopping - outside to the left._ STRAWMAN, _his wife, and - eight little girls, all in travelling dress, - enter one by one._ - - MRS. HALM [_advancing to meet them_]. - - Welcome, a hearty welcome! - - STRAWMAN. - - Thank you. - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - Is it - A party? - - MRS. HALM. - - No, dear madam, not at all. - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - If we disturb you— - - MRS. HALM. - - _Au contraire_, your visit - Could in no wise more opportunely fall. - My Anna’s just engaged. - - STRAWMAN [_shaking_ ANNA’S _hand with unction_]. - - Ah then, I must - Bear witness;—Lo! in wedded Love’s presented - A treasure such as neither moth nor rust - Corrupt—if it be duly supplemented. - - MRS. HALM. - - But how delightful that your little maids - Should follow you to town. - - STRAWMAN. - - Four tender blades - We have besides. - - MRS. HALM. - - Ah, really? - - STRAWMAN. - - Three of whom - Are still too infantine to take to heart - A loving father’s absence, when I come - To town for sessions. - - MISS JAY [_to_ MRS. HALM, _bidding farewell_]. - - Now I must depart. - - MRS. HALM. - - O, it is still so early! - - MISS JAY. - - I must fly - To town and spread the news. The Storms, I know, - Go late to rest, they will be up; and oh! - How glad the aunts will be! Now, dear, put by - Your shyness; for to-morrow a spring-tide - Of callers will flow in from every side! - - MRS. HALM. - - Well, then, good-night. - - [_To the others._ - - Now friends, what would you say - To drinking tea? - - [_To_ MRS. STRAWMAN. - - Pray, madam, lead the way. - - [MRS. HALM, STRAWMAN, _his wife and children, with_ - GULDSTAD, LIND, _and_ ANNA _go into the house._ - - MISS JAY [_taking_ STIVER’S _arm_]. - - Now let’s be tender! Look how softly floats - Queen Luna on her throne o’er lawn and lea!— - Well, but you are not looking! - - STIVER [_crossly_]. - - Yes, I see; - I’m thinking of the promissory notes. - - [_They go out to the left._ FALK, _who has been - continuously watching_ STRAWMAN _and his wife, - remains behind alone in the garden. It is now - dark; the house is lighted up._ - - FALK. - - All is as if burnt out;—all desolate, dead—! - So thro’ the world they wander, two and two; - Charred wreckage, like the blackened stems that strew - The forest when the withering fire is fled. - Far as the eye can travel, all is drought, - And nowhere peeps one spray of verdure out! - - [SVANHILD _comes out on to the verandah with a - flowering rose-tree which she sets down._ - - Yes one—yes one—! - - SVANHILD. - - Falk, in the dark? - - FALK. - - And fearless! - Darkness to me is fair, and light is cheerless - But are not _you_ afraid in yonder walls - Where the lamp’s light on sallow corpses falls— - - SVANHILD. - - Shame! - - FALK [_looking after_ STRAWMAN _who appears at the window_]. - - He was once so brilliant and so strong; - Warred with the world to win his mistress; passed - For Custom’s doughtiest iconoclast; - And poured forth love in pæans of glad song—! - Look at him now! In solemn robes and wraps, - A two-legged drama on his own collapse! - And she, the limp-skirt slattern, with the shoes - Heel-trodden, that squeak and clatter in her traces, - This is the winged maid who was his Muse - And escort to the kingdom of the graces! - Of all that fire this puff of smoke’s the end! - _Sic transit gloria amoris_, friend. - - SVANHILD. - - Yes, it is wretched, wretched past compare. - I know of no one’s lot that I would share. - - FALK [_eagerly_]. - - Then let us two rise up and bid defiance - To this same order Art, not Nature, bred! - - SVANHILD [_shaking her head_]. - - Then were the cause for which we made alliance - Ruined, as sure as this is earth we tread. - - FALK. - - No, triumph waits upon two souls in unity. - To Custom’s parish-church no more we’ll wend, - Seatholders in the Philistine community. - See, Personality’s one aim and end - Is to be independent, free and true. - In that I am not wanting, nor are you. - A fiery spirit pulses in your veins, - For thoughts that master, you have words that burn; - The corslet of convention, that constrains - The beating hearts of other maids, you spurn. - The voice that you were born with will not chime to - The chorus Custom’s baton gives the time to. - - SVANHILD. - - And do you think pain has not often pressed - Tears from my eyes, and quiet from my breast? - I longed to shape my way to my own bent— - - FALK. - - “In pensive ease?” - - SVANHILD. - - O no, ’twas sternly meant. - But then the aunts came in with well-intended - Advice, the matter must be sifted, weighed— - - [_Coming nearer._ - - “In pensive ease,” you say; oh no, I made - A bold experiment—in art. - - FALK. - - Which ended—? - - SVANHILD. - - In failure. I lacked talent for the brush. - The thirst for freedom, tho’, I could not crush; - Checked at the easel, it essayed the stage— - - FALK. - - That plan was shattered also, I engage? - - SVANHILD. - - Upon the eldest aunt’s suggestion, yes; - She much preferred a place as governess— - - FALK. - - But of all this I never heard a word! - - SVANHILD [_smiling_]. - - No wonder; they took care that none was heard. - They trembled at the risk “my future” ran - If this were whispered to unmarried Man. - - FALK [_after gazing a moment at her in meditative - sympathy_]. - - That such must be your lot I long had guessed. - When first I met you, I can well recall, - You seemed to me quite other than the rest, - Beyond the comprehension of them all. - They sat at table,—fragrant tea a-brewing, - And small-talk humming with the tea in tune, - The young girls blushing and the young men cooing, - Like pigeons on a sultry afternoon. - Old maids and matrons volubly averred - Morality and faith’s supreme felicity, - Young wives were loud in praise of domesticity, - While you stood lonely like a mateless bird. - And when at last the gabbling clamour rose - To a tea-orgy, a debauch of prose, - You seemed a piece of silver, newly minted, - Among foul notes and coppers dulled and dinted. - You were a coin imported, alien, strange, - Here valued at another rate of change, - Not passing current in that babel mart - Of poetry and butter, cheese and art. - Then—while Miss Jay in triumph took the field— - - SVANHILD [_gravely_]. - - Her knight behind her, like a champion bold, - His hat upon his elbow, like a shield— - - FALK. - - Your mother nodded to your untouched cup: - “Drink, Svanhild dear, before your tea grows cold.” - And then you drank the vapid liquor up, - The mawkish brew beloved of young and old. - But that name gripped me with a sudden spell; - The grim old Völsungs as they fought and fell, - With all their faded æons, seemed to rise - In never-ending line before my eyes. - In you I saw a Svanhild, like the old, - But fashioned to the modern age’s mould. - Sick of its hollow warfare is the world; - Its lying banner it would fain have furled; - But when the world does evil, its offence - Is blotted in the blood of innocence. - - SVANHILD [_with gentle irony_]. - - I think, at any rate, the fumes of tea - Must answer for that direful fantasy; - But ’tis your least achievement, past dispute, - To hear the spirit speaking, when ’tis mute. - - FALK [_with emotion_]. - - Nay, Svanhild, do not jest: behind your scoff - Tears glitter,—O, I see them plain enough. - And I see more: when you to dust are fray’d, - And kneaded to a formless lump of clay, - Each bungling dilettante’s scalpel-blade - On you his dull devices shall display. - The world usurps the creature of God’s hand - And sets its image in the place of His, - Transforms, enlarges that part, lightens this; - And when upon the pedestal you stand - Complete, cries out in triumph: “_Now_ she is - At last what woman ought to be: Behold, - How plastically calm, how marble-cold! - Bathed in the lamplight’s soft irradiation, - How well in keeping with the decoration!” - - [_Passionately seizing her hand._ - - But if you are to die, live first! Come forth - With me into the glory of God’s earth! - Soon, soon the gilded cage will claim its prize. - The Lady thrives there, but the Woman dies, - And I love nothing but the Woman in you. - There, if they will, let others woo and win you, - But here, my spring of life began to shoot, - Here my Song-tree put forth its firstling fruit; - Here I found wings and flight:—Svanhild, I know it, - Only be mine,—here I shall grow a poet! - - SVANHILD [_in gentle reproof, withdrawing her hand_]. - - O, why have you betrayed yourself? How sweet - It was when we as friends could freely meet! - You should have kept your counsel. Can we stake - Our bliss upon a word that we may break? - Now you have spoken, all is over. - - FALK. - - No! - I’ve pointed to the goal,—now leap with me, - My high-souled Svanhild—if you dare, and show - That you have heart and courage to be free. - - SVANHILD. - - Be free? - - FALK. - - Yes, free, for freedom’s all-in-all - Is absolutely to fulfil our Call. - And you by heaven were destined, I know well, - To be my bulwark against beauty’s spell. - I, like my falcon namesake, have to swing - Against the wind, if I would reach the sky! - You are the breeze I must be breasted by, - You, only you, put vigour in my wing: - Be mine, be mine, until the world shall take you, - When leaves are falling, then our paths shall part - Sing unto me the treasures of your heart, - And for each song another song I’ll make you; - So may you pass into the lamplit glow - Of age, as forests fade without a throe. - - SVANHILD [_with suppressed bitterness_]. - - I cannot thank you, for your words betray - The meaning of your kind solicitude. - You eye me as a boy a sallow, good - To cut and play the flute on for a day. - - FALK. - - Yes, better than to linger in the swamp - Till autumn choke it with her grey mists damp! - - [_Vehemently._ - - You must! you shall! To me you must present - What God to you so bountifully lent. - I speak in song what you in dreams have meant. - See yonder bird I innocently slew, - Her warbling was Song’s book of books for you. - O, yield your music as she yielded hers! - My life shall be that music set to verse! - - SVANHILD. - - And when you know me, when my songs are flown, - And my last requiem chanted from the bough,— - What then? - - FALK [_observing her_]. - - What then? Ah well, remember now! - - [_Pointing to the garden._ - - SVANHILD [_gently_]. - - Yes, I remember you can drive a stone. - - FALK [_with a scornful laugh_]. - - This is your vaunted soul of freedom therefore! - All daring, if it had an end to dare for! - - [_Vehemently._ - - I’ve shown you one; now, once for all, your yea - Or nay. - - SVANHILD. - - You know the answer I must make you: - I never can accept you in your way. - - FALK [_coldly, breaking off_]. - - Then there’s an end of it; the world may take you! - - [SVANHILD _has silently turned away. She supports - her hands upon the verandah railing, and rests - her head upon them._ - - FALK. - - [_Walks several times up and down, takes a cigar, - stops near her and says, after a pause:_ - - You think the topic of my talk to-night - Extremely ludicrous, I should not wonder? - - [_Pauses for an answer._ SVANHILD _is silent._ - - I’m very conscious that it was a blunder; - Sister’s and daughter’s love alone possess you; - Henceforth I’ll wear kid gloves when I address you, - Sure, so, of being understood aright. - - [_Pauses, but as_ SVANHILD _remains motionless, he - turns and goes towards the right._ - - SVANHILD [_lifting her head after a brief silence, looking - at him and drawing nearer_]. - - Now I will recompense your kind intent - To save me, with an earnest admonition. - That falcon-image gave me sudden vision - What your “emancipation” really meant. - You said you were the falcon, that must fight - Athwart the wind if it would reach the sky, - I was the breeze you must be breasted by, - Else vain were all your faculty of flight; - How pitifully mean! How paltry! Nay - How ludicrous, as you yourself divined! - That seed, however, fell not by the way, - But bred another fancy in my mind - Of a far more illuminating kind. - You, as I saw it, were no falcon, but - A tuneful dragon, out of paper cut, - Whose Ego holds a secondary station, - Dependent on the string for animation; - Its breast was scrawled with promises to pay - In cash poetic,—at some future day; - The wings were stiff with barbs and shafts of wit - That wildly beat the air, but never hit; - The tail was a satiric rod in pickle - To castigate the town’s infirmities, - But all it compass’d was to lightly tickle - The casual doer of some small amiss. - So you lay helpless at my feet, imploring: - “O raise me, how and where is all the same! - Give me the power of singing and of soaring. - No matter at what cost of bitter blame!” - - FALK [_clenching his fists in inward agitation_]. - - Heaven be my witness—! - - SVANHILD. - - No, you must be told:— - For such a childish sport I am too old. - But you, whom Nature made for high endeavour, - Are you content the fields of air to tread - Hanging your poet’s life upon a thread - That at my pleasure I can slip and sever? - - FALK [_hurriedly_]. - - What is the date to-day? - - SVANHILD [_more gently_]. - - Why, now, that’s right! - Mind well this day, and heed it, and beware; - Trust to your own wings only for your flight, - Sure, if they do not break, that they will bear. - The paper poem for the desk is fit, - That which is lived alone has life in it; - _That_ only has the wings that scale the height; - Choose now between them, poet: be, or write! - - [_Nearer to him._ - - Now I have done what you besought me; now - My requiem is chanted from the bough; - My only one; now all my songs are flown; - Now, if you will, I’m ready for the stone! - - [_She goes into the house;_ FALK _remains - motionless, looking after her; far out on the - fjord is seen a boat, from which the following - chorus is faintly heard:_ - - CHORUS. - - My wings I open, my sails spread wide, - And cleave like an eagle life’s glassy tide; - Gulls follow my furrow’s foaming; - Overboard with the ballast of care and cark; - And what if I shatter my roaming bark, - It is passing sweet to be roaming! - - FALK [_starting from a reverie_]. - - What, music? Ah, it will be Lind’s quartette - Getting their jubilation up.—Well met! - - [_To_ GULDSTAD, _who enters with an overcoat on his - arm_. - - Ah, slipping off, sir? - - GULDSTAD. - - Yes, with your goodwill. - But let me first put on my overcoat. - We prose-folks are susceptible to chill; - The night wind takes us by the tuneless throat. - Good evening! - - FALK. - - Sir, a word ere you proceed! - Show me a task, a mighty one, you know—! - I’m going in for life—! - - GULDSTAD [_with ironical emphasis_]. - - Well, in you go! - You’ll find that you are in for it, indeed. - - FALK [_looking reflectively at him, says slowly_]. - - There is my program, furnished in a phrase. - - [_In a lively outburst._ - - _Now_ I have wakened from my dreaming days, - I’ve cast the die of life’s supreme transaction, - I’ll show you—else the devil take me— - - GULDSTAD. - - Fie, - No cursing: curses never scared a fly. - - FALK. - - Words, words, no more, but action, only action! - I will reverse the plan of the Creation;— - Six days were lavish’d in that occupation; - My world’s still lying void and desolate, - Hurrah, to-morrow, Sunday—I’ll create! - - GULDSTAD [_laughing_]. - - Yes, strip, and tackle it like a man, that’s right! - But first go in and sleep on it. Good-night! - - [_Goes out to the left._ SVANHILD _appears in the - room over the verandah; she shuts the window and - draws down the blind._ - - FALK. - - No, first I’ll act. I’ve slept too long and late. - - [_Looks up at_ SVANHILD’S _window, and exclaims, as - if seized with a sudden resolution:_ - - Good-night! Good-night! Sweet dreams to-night be thine; - To-morrow, Svanhild, thou art plighted mine! - - [_Goes out quickly to the right; from the water the_ - CHORUS _is heard again._ - - CHORUS. - - Maybe I shall shatter my roaming bark, - But it’s passing sweet to be roaming! - - [_The boat slowly glides away as the curtain falls._ - - - - - ACT SECOND. - - _Sunday afternoon. Well-dressed ladies and gentlemen are - drinking coffee on the verandah. Several of the guests - appear through the open glass door in the garden-room; - the following song is heard from within._ - - - CHORUS. - - Welcome, welcome, new plighted pair - To the merry ranks of the plighted! - Now you may revel as free as air, - Caress without stint and kiss without care,— - No longer of footfall affrighted. - - Now you are licensed, wherever you go, - To the rapture of cooing and billing; - Now you have leisure love’s seed to sow, - Water, and tend it, and make it grow;— - Let us see you’ve a talent for tilling! - - MISS JAY [_within_]. - - Ah Lind, if I only had chanced to hear, - I would have teased you! - - A LADY [_within_]. - - How vexatious though! - - ANOTHER LADY [_in the doorway_]. - - Dear Anna, did he ask in writing? - - AN AUNT. - - No! - - MISS JAY. - - _Mine_ did. - - A LADY [_on the verandah_]. - - How long has it been secret, dear? - - [_Runs into the room._ - - MISS JAY. - - To-morrow there will be the ring to choose. - - LADIES [_eagerly_]. - - We’ll take his measure! - - MISS JAY. - - Nay; that _she_ must do. - - MRS. STRAWMAN [_on the verandah, to a lady who is busy with - embroidery_]. - - What kind of knitting-needles do you use? - - A SERVANT [_in the door with a coffee-pot_]. - - More coffee, madam? - - A LADY. - - Thanks, a drop or two. - - MISS JAY [_to_ ANNA]. - - How fortunate you’ve got your new manteau - Next week to go your round of visits in! - - AN ELDERLY LADY [_at the window_]. - - When shall we go and order the trousseau? - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - How are they selling cotton-bombasine? - - A GENTLEMAN [_to some ladies on the verandah_]. - - Just look at Lind and Anna; what’s his sport? - - LADIES [_with shrill ecstasy_]. - - Gracious, he kissed her glove! - - OTHERS [_similarly, springing up_]. - - No! Kiss’d it? Really? - - LIND [_appears, red and embarrassed, in the doorway_]. - - O, stuff and nonsense! - - [_Disappears._ - - MISS JAY. - - Yes, I saw it clearly. - - STIVER - - [_in the door, with a coffee-cup in one hand and - a biscuit in the other_]. - - The witnesses must not mislead the court; - I here make affidavit, they’re in error. - - MISS JAY [_within_]. - - Come forward, Anna; stand before this mirror! - - SOME LADIES [_calling_]. - - You, too, Lind! - - MISS JAY. - - Back to back! A little nearer! - - LADIES. - - Come, let us see by how much she is short. - - [_All run into the garden-room; laughter and shrill - talk are heard for a while from within_. - - [FALK, _who during the preceding scene has been - walking about in the garden, advances into the - foreground, stops and looks in until the noise - has somewhat abated._ - - FALK. - - There love’s romance is being done to death.— - The butcher once who boggled at the slaughter, - Prolonging needlessly the ox’s breath,— - He got his twenty days of bread and water; - But these—these butchers yonder—they go - free. [_Clenches his fist._ - I could be tempted—; hold, words have no worth, - I’ve sworn it, action only from henceforth! - - LIND [_coming hastily but cautiously out_]. - - Thank God, they’re talking fashions; now’s my chance - To slip away— - - FALK. - - Ha, Lind, _you’ve_ drawn the prize - Of luck,—-congratulations buzz and dance - All day about you, like a swarm of flies. - - LIND. - - They’re all at heart so kindly and so nice; - But rather fewer clients would suffice. - Their helping hands begin to gall and fret me; - I’ll get a moment’s respite, if they’ll let me. - - [_Going out to the right._ - - FALK. - - Whither away? - - LIND. - - Our den;—it has a lock; - In case you find the oak is sported, knock. - - FALK. - - But shall I not fetch Anna to you? - - LIND. - - No— - If she wants anything, she’ll let me know. - Last night we were discussing until late; - We’ve settled almost everything of weight; - Besides I think it scarcely goes with piety - To have too much of one’s beloved’s society. - - FALK. - - Yes, you are right; for daily food we need - A simple diet. - - LIND. - - Pray excuse me, friend. - I want a whiff of reason and the weed; - I haven’t smoked for three whole days on end. - My blood was pulsing in such agitation, - I trembled for rejection all the time— - - FALK. - - Yes, you may well desire recuperation— - - LIND. - - And won’t tobacco’s flavour be sublime! - - [_Goes out to the right._ MISS JAY _and some other_ - LADIES _come out of the garden-room._ - - MISS JAY [_to_ FALK]. - - That was _he_ surely? - - FALK. - - Yes, your hunted deer. - - LADIES. - - To run away from us! - - OTHERS. - - For shame! For shame! - - FALK. - - ’Tis a bit shy at present, but, no fear, - A week of servitude will make him tame. - - MISS JAY [_looking round_]. - - Where is he hid? - - FALK. - - His present hiding-place - Is in the garden loft, our common lair; - - [_Blandly._ - - But let me beg you not to seek him there; - Give him a breathing time! - - MISS JAY. - - Well, good: the grace - Will not be long, tho’. - - FALK. - - Nay, be generous! - Ten minutes,—then begin the game again. - He has an English sermon on the brain. - - MISS JAY. - - An English—? - - LADIES. - - O you laugh! You’re fooling us! - - FALK. - - I’m in grim earnest. ’Tis his fixed intention - To take a charge among the emigrants, - And therefore— - - MISS JAY [_with horror_]. - - Heavens, he had the face to mention - That mad idea? - - [_To the ladies._ - - O quick—fetch all the aunts! - Anna, her mother, Mrs. Strawman too. - - LADIES [_agitated_]. - - This must be stopped! - - ALL. - - We’ll make a great ado! - - MISS JAY. - - Thank God, they’re coming. - - [_To_ ANNA, _who comes from the garden-room with_ - STRAWMAN, _his wife and children_, STIVER, - GULDSTAD, MRS. HALM _and the other guests._ - - MISS JAY. - - Do you know what Lind - Has secretly determined in his mind? - To go as missionary— - - ANNA. - - Yes, I know. - - MRS. HALM. - - And you’ve agreed—! - - ANNA [_embarrassed_]. - - That I will also go. - - MISS JAY [_indignant_]. - - He’s talked this stuff to you! - - LADIES [_clasping their hands together_]. - - What tyranny! - - FALK. - - But think, his Call that would not be denied—! - - MISS JAY. - - Tut, that’s what people follow when they’re free: - A bridegroom follows nothing but his bride.— - No, my sweet Anna, ponder, I entreat: - You, reared in comfort from your earliest breath—? - - FALK. - - Yet, sure, to suffer for the faith is sweet! - - MISS JAY. - - Is one to suffer for one’s bridegroom’s faith? - That is a rather novel point of view. - - [_To the ladies_. - - Ladies, attend! - - [_Takes_ ANNA’S _arm._ - - Now listen; then repeat - For his instruction what he has to do. - - [_They go into the background and out to the right - in eager talk with several of the ladies; the - other guests disperse in groups about the - garden._ FALK _stops_ STRAWMAN, _whose wife and - children keep close to him._ GULDSTAD _goes to - and fro during the following conversation._ - - FALK. - - Come, pastor, help young fervour in its fight, - Before they lure Miss Anna from her vows. - - STRAWMAN [_in clerical cadence_]. - - The wife must be submissive to the spouse;— - - [_Reflecting._ - - But if I apprehended him aright, - His Call’s a problematical affair, - The Offering altogether in the air— - - FALK. - - Pray do not judge so rashly. I can give - You absolute assurance, as I live, - His Call is definite and incontestable— - - STRAWMAN [_seeing it in a new light_]. - - Ah—if there’s something fixed—investable— - _Per annum_—then I’ve nothing more to say. - - FALK [_impatiently_]. - - You think the most of what I count the least; - I mean the _inspiration_,—not the _pay_! - - STRAWMAN [with an unctuous smile]. - - Pay is the first condition of a priest - In Asia, Africa, America, - Or where you will. Ah yes, if he were free, - My dear young friend, I willingly agree, - The thing might pass; but, being pledged and bound, - He’ll scarcely find the venture very sound. - Reflect, he’s young and vigorous, sure to found - A little family in time; assume his will - To be the very best on earth—but still - The _means_, my friend—? ‘Build not upon the sand,’ - Says Scripture. If, upon the other hand, - The Offering— - - FALK. - - That’s no trifle, I’m aware. - - STRAWMAN. - - Ah, come—that wholly alters the affair. - When men are zealous in their Offering, - And liberal— - - FALK. - - There he far surpasses most. - - STRAWMAN. - - “He” say you? How? In virtue of his post - The Offering is not what he has to _bring_ - But what he has to _get_. - - MRS. STRAWMAN [_looking towards the background_]. - - They’re sitting there. - - FALK [_after staring a moment in amazement, suddenly - understands and bursts out laughing_]. - - Hurrah for Offerings—the ones that caper - And strut—on Holy-days—in bulging paper! - - STRAWMAN. - - All the year round the curb and bit we bear, - But Whitsuntide and Christmas make things square. - - FALK [_gaily_]. - - Why then, provided only there’s enough of it, - Even family-founders will obey their Calls. - - STRAWMAN. - - Of course; a man assured the _quantum suff_ of it - Will preach the Gospel to the cannibals. - - [_Sotto voce._ - - Now I must see if she cannot be led, - - [_To one of the little girls._ - - My little Mattie, fetch me out my head— - My pipe-head I should say, my little dear— - - [_Feels in his coat-tail pocket._ - - Nay, wait a moment tho’: I have it here. - - [_Goes across and fills his pipe, followed by his - wife and children._ - - GULDSTAD [_approaching_]. - - You seem to play the part of serpent in - This paradise of lovers. - - FALK. - - O, the pips - Upon the tree of knowledge are too green - To be a lure for anybody’s lips. - - [_To_ LIND, _who comes in from the right._ - - Ha, Lind! - - LIND. - - In heaven’s name, who’s been ravaging - Our sanctum? There the lamp lies dashed - To pieces, curtain dragged to floor, pen smashed, - And on the mantelpiece the ink pot splashed— - - FALK [_clapping him on the shoulder_]. - - This wreck’s the first announcement of my spring; - No more behind drawn curtains I will sit, - Making pen poetry with lamp alit; - My dull domestic poetising’s done, - I’ll walk by day, and glory in the sun: - My spring is come, my soul has broken free, - Action henceforth shall be my poetry. - - LIND. - - Make poetry of what you please for me; - But how if Mrs. Halm should take amiss - Your breaking of her furniture to pieces? - - FALK. - - What!—she, who lays her daughters and her nieces - Upon the altar of her boarders’ bliss,— - She frown at such a bagatelle as this? - - LIND [_angrily_]. - - It’s utterly outrageous and unfair, - And compromises me as well as you! - But that’s her business, settle it with her. - The lamp was mine, tho’, shade and burner too— - - FALK. - - Tut, on that head, I’ve no account to render; - You have God’s summer sunshine in its splendour,— - What would you with the lamp? - - LIND. - - You are grotesque; - You utterly forget that summer passes; - If I’m to make a figure in my classes - At Christmas I must buckle to my desk. - - FALK [_staring at him_]. - - What, you look _forward_? - - LIND. - - To be sure I do, - The examination’s amply worth it too. - - FALK. - - Ah but—you ‘only sit and live’—remember! - Drunk with the moment, you demand no more— - Not even a modest third-class next December. - You’ve caught the bird of Fortune fair and fleet, - You feel as if the world with all its store - Were scattered in profusion at your feet. - - LIND. - - Those were my words; they must be understood, - Of course, _cum grano salis_— - - FALK. - - Very good! - - LIND. - - In the _forenoons_ I will enjoy my bliss; - That I am quite resolved on— - - FALK. - - Daring man! - - LIND. - - I have my round of visits to the clan; - Time will run anyhow to waste in this; - But any further dislocation of - My study-plan I strongly disapprove. - - FALK. - - A week ago, however, you were bent - On going out into God’s world with song. - - LIND. - - Yes, but I thought the tour a little long; - The fourteen days might well be better spent. - - FALK. - - Nay, but you had another argument - For staying; how the lovely dale for you - Was mountain air and winged warble too. - - LIND. - - Yes, to be sure, this air is unalloyed; - But all its benefits may be enjoyed - Over one’s book without the slightest bar. - - FALK. - - But it was just the _Book_ which failed, you see, - As Jacob’s ladder— - - LIND. - - How perverse you are! - That is what people say when they are _free_— - - FALK - - [_looking at him and folding his hands in silent - amazement_]. - - Thou also, Brutus! - - LIND [_with a shade of confusion and annoyance_]. - - Pray remember, do! - That I have other duties now than you; - I have my _fiancée_. Every plighted pair, - Those of prolonged experience not excepted,— - Whose evidence you would not wish rejected,— - Will tell you, that if two are bound to fare - Through life together, they must— - - FALK. - - Prithee spare - The comment; who supplied it? - - LIND. - - Well, we’ll say - Stiver, he’s honest surely; and Miss Jay, - Who has such very great experience here, - She says— - - FALK. - - Well, but the Parson and his—dear? - - LIND. - - Yes, they’re remarkable. There broods above - Them such placidity, such quietude,— - Conceive, she can’t remember being wooed, - Has quite forgotten what is meant by love. - - FALK. - - Ah yes, when one has slumber’d over long, - The birds of memory refuse their song. - - [_Laying his hand on_ LIND’S _shoulder, with an - ironical look._ - - You, Lind, slept sound last night, I guarantee? - - LIND. - - And long. I went to bed in such depression, - And yet with such a fever in my brain, - I almost doubted if I could be sane. - - FALK. - - Ah yes, a sort of witchery, you see. - - LIND. - - Thank God I woke in perfect self-possession. - - [_During the foregoing scene_ STRAWMAN _has been - seen from time to time walking in the background - in lively conversation with_ ANNA; MRS. STRAWMAN - _and the children follow._ MISS JAY _now appears - also, and with her_ MRS. HALM _and other - ladies._ - - MISS JAY [_before she enters_]. - - Ah, Mr. Lind. - - LIND [_to_ FALK]. - - They’re after me again! - Come, let us go. - - MISS JAY. - - Nay, nay, you must remain, - Let us make speedy end of the division - That has crept in between your love and you. - - LIND. - - Are we divided? - - MISS JAY [_pointing to_ ANNA, _who is standing further off - in the garden_]. - - Gather the decision - From yon red eyes. The foreign mission drew - Those tears. - - LIND. - - But heavens, she was glad to go— - - MISS JAY [_scoffing_]. - - Yes, to be sure, one would imagine so! - No, my dear Lind, you’ll take another view - When you have heard the whole affair discussed; - - LIND. - - But then this warfare for the faith, you know, - Is my most cherished dream! - - MISS JAY. - - O who would build - On dreaming in this century of light? - Why, Stiver had a dream the other night; - There came a letter singularly sealed— - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - It’s _treasure_ such a dream prognosticates. - - MISS JAY [_nodding_]. - - Yes, and next day they sued him for the rates. - - [_The ladies make a circle round LIND and go in - conversation with him into the garden._ - - STRAWMAN [_continuing, to_ ANNA, _who faintly tries to - escape_]. - - From these considerations, daughter mine, - From these considerations, buttressed all - With reason, morals, and the Word Divine, - You now perceive that to desert your Call - Were absolutely inexcusable. - - ANNA [_half crying_]. - - Oh! I’m so young— - - STRAWMAN. - - And it is natural, - I own, that one should tremble to essay - These perils, dare the lures that there waylay; - But from doubt’s tangle you must now break free,— - Be of good cheer and follow Moll and me! - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - Yes, your dear mother tells me that I too - Was just as inconsolable as you - When we received our Call— - - STRAWMAN. - - And for like cause— - The fascination of the town—it was; - But when a little money had come in, - And the first pairs of infants, twin by twin, - She quite got over it. - - FALK [_sotto voce to_ STRAWMAN]. - - Bravo, you able - Persuader. - - STRAWMAN [_nodding to him and turning again to_ ANNA]. - - Now you’ve promised me, be stable. - Shall man renounce his work? Falk says the Call - Is not so very slender after all. - Did you not, Falk? - - FALK. - - Nay, pastor— - - STRAWMAN. - - To be sure—! - - [_To_ ANNA. - - Of something then at least you are secure. - What’s gained by giving up, if that is so? - Look back into the ages long ago, - See, Adam, Eve—the Ark, see, pair by pair, - Birds in the field—the lilies in the air, - The little birds—the little birds—the fishes— - - [_Continues in a lower tone, as he withdraws with_ - ANNA. - - [MISS JAY _and the_ AUNTS _return with_ LIND. - - FALK. - - Hurrah! Here come the veterans in array; - The old guard charging to retrieve the day! - - MISS JAY. - - Ah, in exact accordance with our wishes! - - [_Aside._ - - We _have_ him, Falk!—Now let us tackle _her_! - - [_Approaches_ ANNA. - - STRAWMAN [_with a deprecating motion_]. - - She needs no secular solicitation; - The Spirit has spoken, what can Earth bestead—? - - [_Modestly._ - - If in some small degree my words have sped, - Power was vouchsafed me—! - - MRS. HALM. - - Come, no more evasion, - Bring them together! - - AUNTS [_with emotion_]. - - Ah, how exquisite! - - STRAWMAN. - - Yes, can there be a heart so dull and dead - As not to be entranced at such a sight! - It is so thrilling and so penetrating, - So lacerating, so exhilarating, - To see an innocent babe devoutly lay - Its offering on Duty’s altar. - - MRS. HALM. - - Nay, - Her family have also done their part. - - MISS JAY. - - I and the Aunts—I should imagine so. - You, Lind, may have the key to Anna’s heart, - - [_Presses his hand._ - - But we possess a picklock, you must know, - Able to open where the key avails not. - And if in years to come, cares throng and thwart, - Only apply to us, our friendship fails not. - - MRS. HALM. - - Yes, we shall hover round you all your life,— - - MISS JAY. - - And shield you from the fiend of wedded strife. - - STRAWMAN. - - Enchanting group! Love, friendship, hour of gladness, - Yet so pathetically touched with sadness. - - [_Turning to_ LIND. - - But now, young man, pray make an end of this. - - [_Leading_ ANNA _to him._ - - Take thy betrothed—receive her—with a kiss! - - LIND [_giving his hand to_ ANNA]. - - I stay at home! - - ANNA [_at the same moment_]. - - I go with you! - - ANNA [_amazed_]. - - You stay? - - LIND [_equally so_]. - - You go with me? - - ANNA [_with a helpless glance at the company_]. - - Why, then, we are divided as before! - - LIND. - - What’s this? - - THE LADIES. - - What now? - - MISS JAY [_excitedly_]. - - Our wills are all at war— - - STRAWMAN. - - She gave her solemn word to cross the sea - With him! - - MISS JAY. - - And he gave his to stay ashore - With her! - - FALK [_laughing_]. - - They both complied; what would you more! - - STRAWMAN. - - These complications are too much for me. - - [_Goes towards the background._ - - AUNTS [_to one another_]. - - How in the world came they to disagree? - - MRS. HALM. - - [_To_ GULDSTAD _and_ STIVER, _who have been walking - in the garden and now approach._ - - The spirit of discord’s in possession here. - - [_Talks aside to them._ - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - [_To_ MISS JAY, _noticing that the table is being - laid._ - - There comes the tea. - - MISS JAY [_curtly_]. - - Thank heaven. - - FALK. - - Hurrah! a cheer - For love and friendship, maiden aunts and tea! - - STIVER. - - But if the case stands thus, the whole proceeding - May easily be ended with a laugh; - All turns upon a single paragraph, - Which bids the wife attend the spouse. No pleading - Can wrest an ordinance so clearly stated— - - MISS JAY. - - Doubtless, but does that help us to agree? - - STRAWMAN. - - She must obey a law that heaven dictated. - - STIVER. - - But Lind can circumvent that law, you see. - - [_To_ LIND. - - Put off your journey, and then—budge no jot. - - AUNTS [_delighted_]. - - Yes, that’s the way! - - MRS. HALM.. - - Agreed! - - MISS JAY. - - That cuts the knot. - - [SVANHILD _and the maids have meantime laid the - tea-table beside the verandah steps. At_ MRS. - HALM’S _invitation the ladies sit down. The rest - of the company take their places, partly on the - verandah and in the summer-house, partly in the - garden._ FALK _sits on the verandah. During the - following scene they drink tea._ - - MRS. HALM [_smiling_]. - - And so our little storm is overblown. - Such summer showers do good when they are gone; - The sunshine greets us with a double boon, - And promises a cloudless afternoon. - - MISS JAY. - - Ah yes, Love’s blossom without rainy skies - Would never thrive according to our wishes. - - FALK. - - In dry land set it, and it forthwith dies; - For in so far the flowers are like the fishes— - - SVANHILD. - - Nay, for Love lives, you know, upon the air— - - MISS JAY. - - Which is the death of fishes— - - FALK. - - So I say. - - MISS JAY. - - Aha, we’ve put a bridle on you there! - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - The tea is good, one knows by the bouquet. - - FALK. - - Well, let us keep the simile you chose. - Love is a flower; for if heaven’s blessed rain - Fall short, it all but pines to death— [_Pauses._ - - MISS JAY. - - What then? - - FALK [_with a gallant bow_]. - - Then come the aunts with the reviving hose.— - But poets have this simile employed, - And men for scores of centuries enjoyed,— - Yet hardly one its secret sense has hit; - For flowers are manifold and infinite. - Say, then, what flower is love? Name me, who knows, - The flower most like it? - - MISS JAY. - - Why, it is the rose; - Good gracious, that’s exceedingly well known;— - Love, all agree, lends life a rosy tone. - - A YOUNG LADY. - - It is the snowdrop; growing, snow enfurled; - Till it peer forth, undreamt of by the world. - - AN AUNT. - - It is the dandelion,—made robust - By dint of human heel and horse hoof thrust; - Nay, shooting forth afresh when it is smitten, - As Pedersen so charmingly has written. - - LIND. - - It is the bluebell,—ringing in for all - Young hearts life’s joyous Whitsun festival. - - MRS. HALM. - - No, ’tis an evergreen,—as fresh and gay - In desolate December as in May. - - GULDSTAD. - - No, Iceland moss, dry gathered,—far the best - Cure for young ladies with a wounded breast. - - A GENTLEMAN. - - No, the wild chestnut tree,—in high repute - For household fuel, but with a bitter fruit. - - SVANHILD. - - No, a camellia; at our balls, ’tis said, - The chief adornment of a lady’s head. - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - No, it is like a flower, O such a bright one;— - Stay now—a blue one, no, it was a white one— - What is its name—? Dear me—the one I met—; - Well it is singular how I forget! - - STIVER. - - None of these flower similitudes will run. - The flowerpot is a likelier candidate. - There’s only room in it, at once, for _one_; - But by progressive stages it holds _eight_. - - STRAWMAN [_with his little girls round him_]. - - No, love’s a pear tree; in the spring like snow - With myriad blossoms, which in summer grow - To pearlets; in the parent’s sap each shares;— - And with God’s help they’ll all alike prove pears. - - FALK. - - So many heads, so many sentences! - No, you all grope and blunder off the line. - Each simile’s at fault; I’ll tell you mine;— - You’re free to turn and wrest it as you please. - - [_Rises as if to make a speech._ - - In the remotest east there grows a plant; - And the sun’s cousin’s garden is its haunt— - - THE LADIES. - - Ah, it’s the tea-plant! - - FALK. - - Yes. - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - His voice is so - Like Strawman’s when he— - - STRAWMAN. - - Don’t disturb his flow. - - FALK. - - It has its home in fabled lands serene; - Thousands of miles of desert lie between;— - Fill up, Lind!—So.—Now in a tea-oration, - I’ll show of tea and Love the true relation. - - [_The guests cluster round him._ - - It has its home in the romantic land; - Alas, Love’s home is also in Romance, - Only the Sun’s descendants understand - The herb’s right cultivation and advance. - With Love it is not otherwise than so. - Blood of the Sun along the veins must flow - If Love indeed therein is to strike root, - And burgeon into blossom, into fruit. - - MISS JAY. - - But China is an ancient land; you hold - In consequence that tea is very old— - - STRAWMAN. - - Past question antecedent to Jerusalem. - - FALK. - - Yes, ’twas already famous when Methusalem - His picture-books and rattles tore and flung— - - MISS JAY [_triumphantly_]. - - And Love is in its very nature young! - To find a likeness there is pretty bold. - - FALK. - - No; Love, in truth, is also very old; - That principle we here no more dispute - Than do the folks of Rio or Beyrout. - Nay, there are those from Cayenne to Caithness, - Who stand upon its everlastingness;— - Well, that may be a slight exaggeration, - But old it is beyond all estimation. - - MISS JAY. - - But Love is all alike; whereas we see - Both good and bad and middling kinds of tea! - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - Yes, they sell tea of many qualities. - - ANNA. - - The green spring shoots I count the very first— - - SVANHILD. - - Those serve to quench celestial daughters’ thirst. - - A YOUNG LADY. - - Witching as ether fumes they say it is— - - ANOTHER. - - Balmy as lotus, sweet as almond, clear— - - GULDSTAD. - - That’s not an article we deal in here. - - FALK [_who has meanwhile come down from the verandah_]. - - Ah, ladies, every mortal has a small - Private celestial empire in his heart. - There bud such shoots in thousands, kept apart - By Shyness’s soon shatter’d Chinese Wall. - But in her dim fantastic temple bower - The little Chinese puppet sits and sighs, - A dream of far-off wonders in her eyes— - And in her hand a golden tulip flower. - For _her_ the tender firstling tendrils grew;— - Rich crop or meagre, what is that to you? - Instead of it we get an after crop - They kick the tree for, dust and stalk and stem,— - As hemp to silk beside what goes to them— - - GULDSTAD. - - That is the black tea. - - FALK [_nodding_]. - - That’s what fills the shop. - - A GENTLEMAN. - - There’s beef tea too, that Holberg says a word of— - - MISS JAY [_sharply_]. - - To modern taste entirely out of date. - - FALK. - - And a _beef love_ has equally been heard of, - Wont—in romances—to brow-beat its mate, - And still they say its trace may be detected - Amongst the henpecked of the married state. - In short there’s likeness where ’twas least expected. - So, as you know, an ancient proverb tells, - That something ever passes from the tea - Of the bouquet that lodges in its cells, - If it be carried hither over sea. - It must across the desert and the hills,— - Pay toll to Cossack and to Russian tills;— - It gets their stamp and licence, that’s enough, - We buy it as the true and genuine stuff. - But has not Love the self-same path to fare? - Across Life’s desert? How the world would rave - And shriek if you or I should boldly bear - Our Love by way of Freedom’s ocean wave! - “Good heavens, his moral savour’s passed away, - “And quite dispersed Legality’s bouquet!”— - - STRAWMAN [_rising_]. - - Yes, happily,—in every moral land - Such wares continue to be contraband! - - FALK. - - Yes, to pass current here, Love must have cross’d - The great Siberian waste of regulations, - Fann’d by no breath of ocean to its cost; - It must produce official attestations - From friends and kindred, devils of relations, - From church curators, organist and clerk, - And other fine folks—over and above - The primal licence which God gave to Love.— - And then the last great point of likeness;—mark - How heavily the hand of culture weighs - Upon that far Celestial domain; - Its power is shatter’d, and its wall decays, - The last true Mandarin’s strangled; hands profane - Already are put forth to share the spoil; - Soon the Sun’s realm will be a legend vain, - An idle tale incredible to sense; - The world is gray in gray—we’ve flung the soil - On buried Faery,—we have made her mound. - But if we have,—then where can Love be found? - Alas, Love also is departed hence! - - [_Lifts his cup._ - - - Well let him go, since so the times decree;— - A health to Amor, late of Earth,—in tea! - - [_He drains his cup; indignant murmurs amongst the company._ - - MISS JAY. - - A very odd expression! “Dead” indeed! - - THE LADIES. - - To say that Love is dead—! - - STRAWMAN. - - Why, here you see - Him sitting, rosy, round and sound, at tea, - In all conditions! Here in her sable weed - The widow— - - MISS JAY. - - Here a couple, true and tried,— - - STIVER. - - With many ample pledges fortified. - - GULDSTAD. - - Then Love’s light cavalry, of maid and man, - The plighted pairs in order— - - STRAWMAN. - - In the van - The veterans, whose troth has laughed to scorn - The tooth of Time— - - MISS JAY [_hastily interrupting_]. - - And then the babes new-born— - The little novices of yester-morn— - - STRAWMAN. - - Spring, summer, autumn, winter, in a word, - Are here; the truth is patent, past all doubt, - It can be clutched and handled, seen and heard,— - - FALK. - - What then? - - MISS JAY. - - And yet you want to thrust it out! - - FALK. - - Madam, you quite mistake. In all I spoke - I cast no doubt on anything you claim; - But I would fain remind you that, from smoke, - We cannot logically argue flame. - That men are married, and have children, I - Have no desire whatever to deny; - Nor do I dream of doubting that such things - Are in the world as troth and wedding-rings; - That billets-doux some tender hands indite - And seal with pairs of turtle doves that—fight; - That sweethearts swarm in cottage and in hall, - That chocolate rewards the wedding-call; - That usage and convention have decreed, - In every point, how “Lovers” shall proceed:— - But, heavens! We’ve majors also by the score, - Arsenals heaped with muniments of war, - With spurs and howitzers and drums and shot, - But what does that permit us to infer? - That we have men who dangle swords, but not - That they will wield the weapons that they wear. - Tho’ all the plain with gleaming tents you crowd, - Does that make heroes of the men they shroud? - - STRAWMAN. - - Well, all in moderation; I must own, - It is not quite conducive to the truth - That we should paint the enamourment of youth - So bright, as if—ahem—it stood alone. - Love-making still a frail foundation is. - Only the snuggery of wedded bliss - Provides a rock where Love may builded be - In unassailable security. - - MISS JAY. - - There I entirely differ. In my view, - A free accord of lovers, heart with heart, - Who hold together, having leave to part, - Gives the best warrant that their love is true. - - ANNA [_warmly_]. - - O no—Love’s bond when it is fresh and young - Is of a stuff more precious and more strong. - - LIND [_thoughtfully_]. - - Possibly the ideal flower may blow, - Even as that snowdrop,—hidden by the snow. - - FALK [_with a sudden outburst_]. - - You fallen Adam! There a heart was cleft - With longing for the Eden it has left! - - LIND. - - What stuff! - - MRS. HALM [_offended, to_ FALK, _rising_]. - - ’Tis not a very friendly act - To stir a quarrel where we’ve made a peace. - As for your friend’s good fortune, be at ease— - - SOME LADIES. - - Nay that’s assured— - - OTHERS. - - A very certain fact. - - MRS. HALM. - - The cooking-class at school, I must confess, - She did not take; but she shall learn it still. - - MISS JAY. - - With her own hands she’s trimming her own dress - - AN AUNT [_patting_ ANNA’S _hand_]. - - And growing exquisitely sensible. - - FALK [_laughing aloud_]. - - O parody of sense, that rives and rends - In maniac dance upon the lips of friends! - Was it good sense he wanted? Or a she- - Professor of the lore of Cookery? - A joyous son of springtime he came here, - For the wild rosebud on the bush he burned. - You reared the rosebud for him; he returned— - And for his rose found what? The hip! - - MISS JAY [_offended_]. - - You jeer! - - FALK. - - A useful household condiment, heaven knows! - But yet the hip was not his bridal rose. - - MRS. HALM. - - O, if it is a ball-room queen he wants, - I’m very sorry; these are not their haunts. - - FALK. - - O yes, I know the pretty coquetry - They carry on with “Domesticity.” - It is a suckling of the mighty Lie - That, like hop-tendrils, spreads itself on high. - , madam, reverently bare my head - To the ball queen; a child of beauty she— - And the ideal’s golden woof is spread - In ball-rooms, hardly in the nursery. - - MRS. HALM [_with suppressed bitterness_]. - - Your conduct, sir, is easily explained; - A plighted lover cannot be a friend; - That is the kernel of the whole affair; - I have a very large experience there. - - FALK. - - No doubt,—with seven nieces, each a wife— - - MRS. HALM. - - And each a happy wife— - - FALK [_with emphasis_]. - - Ah, do we know? - - GULDSTAD. - - How! - - MISS JAY. - - Mr. Falk! - - LIND. - - Are you resolved to sow - Dissension? - - FALK [_vehemently_]. - - Yes, war, discord, turmoil, strife! - - STIVER. - - What you, a lay, profane outsider here! - - FALK. - - No matter, still the battle-flag I’ll rear! - Yes, it is war I mean with nail and tooth - Against the Lie with the tenacious root, - The lie that you have fostered into fruit, - For all its strutting in the guise of truth! - - STIVER. - - Against these groundless charges I protest, - Reserving right of action— - - MISS JAY. - - Do be still! - - FALK. - - So then it is Love’s ever-running rill - That tells the widow what she once possess’d,— - That very Love that, in the days gone by, - Out of her language blotted “moan” and “sigh”! - So then it is Love’s brimming tide that rolls - Along the placid veins of wedded souls,— - That very Love that faced the iron sleet, - Trampling inane Convention under feet, - And scoffing at the impotent discreet! - So then it is Love’s beauty-kindled flame - That keeps the plighted from the taint of time - Year after year! Ah yes, the very same - That made our young bureaucrat blaze in rhyme! - So it is Love’s young bliss that will not brave - The voyage over vaulted Ocean’s wave, - But asks a sacrifice when, like the sun, - Its face should fill with glory, _making_ one! - Ah no, you vulgar prophets of the Lie, - Give things the names we ought to know them by; - Call widows’ passion—wanting what they miss, - And wedlock’s _habit_—call it what it is! - - STRAWMAN. - - Young man, this insolence has gone too far! - In every word there’s scoffing and defiance. - - [_Goes close up to Falk._ - - Now I’ll gird up my aged loins to war - For hallowed custom against modern science! - - FALK. - - I go to battle as it were a feast! - - STRAWMAN. - - Good! For your bullets I will be a beacon!— - - [_Nearer._ - - A wedded pair is holy, like a priest— - - STIVER [_at_ FALK’S _other side_]. - - And a betrothed— - - FALK. - - Half-holy, like the deacon. - - STRAWMAN. - - Behold these children;—see,—this little throng! - _Io triumphe_ may for them be sung! - How was it possible—how practicable—; - The words of truth are strong, inexorable;— - He has no hearing whom they cannot move. - See,—every one of them’s a child of Love—! - - [_Stops in confusion._ - - That is—you understand—I would have said—! - - MISS JAY [_fanning herself with her handkerchief_]. - - This is a very mystical oration! - - FALK. - - There you yourself provide the demonstration,— - A good old Norse one, sound, true-born, homebred. - You draw distinction between wedded pledges - And those of Love: your Logic’s without flaw. - They are distinguished just as roast from raw, - As hothouse bloom from wilding of the hedges! - Love is with us a science and an art; - It long since ceased to animate the heart. - Love is with us a trade, a special line - Of business, with its union, code and sign; - It is a guild of married folks and plighted, - Past-masters with apprentices united; - For they cohere compact as jelly-fishes, - A singing-club their single want and wish is— - - GULDSTAD. - - And a gazette! - - FALK. - - A good suggestion, yes! - We too must have our organ in the press, - Like ladies, athletes, boys, and devotees. - Don’t ask the price at present, if you please. - There I’ll parade each amatory fetter - That John and Thomas to our town unites, - There publish every pink and perfumed letter - That William to his tender Jane indites; - There you shall read, among “Distressing Scenes”— - Instead of murders and burnt crinolines, - The broken matches that the week’s afforded; - There under “goods for sale” you’ll find what firms - Will furnish cast-off rings on easy terms; - There double, treble births will be recorded; - No wedding, but our rallying rub-a-dub - Shall drum to the performance all the club; - No suit rejected, but we’ll set it down, - In letters large, with other news of weight - Thus: “Amor-Moloch, we regret to state, - Has claimed another victim in our town.” - You’ll see, we’ll catch subscribers: once in sight - Of the propitious season when they bite, - By way of throwing them the bait they’ll brook - I’ll stick a nice young man upon my hook. - Yes, you will see me battle for our cause, - With tiger’s, nay with editorial, claws - Rending them— - - GULDSTAD. - - And the paper’s name will be—? - - FALK. - - Amor’s Norse Chronicle of Archery. - - STIVER [_going nearer_]. - - You’re not in earnest, you will never stake - Your name and fame for such a fancy’s sake! - - FALK. - - I’m in grim earnest. We are often told - Men cannot live on love; I’ll show that this - Is an untenable hypothesis; - For Love will prove to be a mine of gold: - Particularly if Miss Jay, perhaps, - Will Mr. Strawman’s “Life’s Romance” unfold, - As appetising feuilleton, in scraps. - - STRAWMAN [_in terror_]. - - Merciful heaven! My “life’s romance!” What, what! - When was my life romantic, if you please? - - MISS JAY. - - I never said so. - - STIVER. - - Witness disagrees. - - STRAWMAN. - - That I have ever swerved a single jot - From social prescript,—is a monstrous lie. - - FALK. - - Good. - - [_Clapping_ STIVER _on the shoulder_. - - Here’s a friend who will not put me by. - We’ll start with Stiver’s lyric ecstasies. - - STIVER [_after a glance of horror at_ STRAWMAN]. - - Are you quite mad! Nay then I must be heard! - You dare accuse me for a poet— - - MISS JAY. - - How—! - - FALK. - - Your office has averred it anyhow. - - STIVER [_in towering anger_]. - - Sir, by our office nothing is averred. - - FALK. - - Well, leave me then, you also: I have by me - One comrade yet whose loyalty will last. - “A true heart’s story” Lind will not deny me, - Whose troth’s too tender for the ocean blast, - Who for his mistress makes surrender of - His fellow-men—pure quintessence of Love! - - MRS. HALM. - - My patience, Mr. Falk, is now worn out. - The same abode no longer can receive us:— - I beg of you this very day to leave us— - - FALK [_with a bow as_ MRS. HALM _and the company withdraw_]. - - That this would come I never had a doubt! - - STRAWMAN. - - Between us two there’s battle to the death; - You’ve slandered me, my wife, nay little flock, - From Molly down to Millie, in one breath. - Crow on, crow on—Emancipation’s cock,— - - [_Goes in, followed by his wife and children._ - - FALK. - - And go you on observing Peter’s faith - To Love your lord—who, thanks to your advice, - Was thrice denied before the cock crew thrice! - - MISS JAY [_turning faint_]. - - Attend me, Stiver! help me get unlaced - My corset—this way, this way—do make haste! - - STIVER [_to_ FALK _as he withdraws with_ MISS JAY _on his - arm_]. - - I here renounce your friendship. - - LIND. - - I likewise. - - FALK [_seriously_]. - - You too, my Lind? - - LIND. - - Farewell. - - FALK. - - You were my nearest one— - - LIND. - - No help, it is the pleasure of my dearest one. - - [_He goes in:_ SVANHILD _has remained standing on - the verandah steps._ - - FALK. - - So, now I’ve made a clearance, have free course - In all directions! - - SVANHILD. - - Falk, one word with you! - - FALK [_pointing politely to the house_]. - - That way, Miss Halm;—that way, with all the force - Of aunts and inmates, Mrs. Halm withdrew. - - SVANHILD [_nearer to him_]. - - Let them withdraw; their ways and mine divide; - I will not swell the number of their band. - - FALK. - - You’ll stay? - - SVANHILD. - - If you make war on lies, I stand - A trusty armour-bearer by your side. - - FALK. - - You, Svanhild, you who— - - SVANHILD. - - Were you yourself, Falk, yesterday the same? - You bade me be a sallow, for your play. - - FALK. - - And a sweet sallow sang me into shame. - No, you are right: I was a child to ask; - But you have fired me to a nobler task. - Eight in the midst of men the Church is founded - Where Truth’s appealing clarion must be sounded - We are not called, like demigods, to gaze on - The battle from the far-off mountain’s crest, - But in our hearts to bear our fiery blazon, - An Olaf’s cross upon a mailed breast,— - To look afar across the fields of flight, - Tho’ pent within the mazes of its might,— - Beyond the mirk descry one glimmer still - Of glory—that’s the Call we must fulfil. - - SVANHILD. - - And you’ll fulfil it when you break from men, - Stand free, alone,— - - FALK. - - Did I frequent them _then_? - And there lies duty. No, that time’s gone by,— - My solitary compact with the sky. - My four-wall-chamber poetry is done; - My verse shall live in forest and in field, - I’ll fight under the splendour of the sun;— - I or the Lie—one of us two must yield! - - SVANHILD. - - Then forth with God from Verse to Derringdoe! - I did you wrong: you have a feeling heart; - Forgive me,—and as good friends let us part— - - FALK. - - Nay, in my future there is room for two! - We part not. Svanhild, if you dare decide, - We’ll battle on together side by side. - - SVANHILD. - - _We_ battle? - - FALK. - - See, I have no friend, no mate, - By all abandoned, I make war on all: - At me they aim the piercing shafts of hate; - Say, do you dare with me to stand or fall? - Henceforth along the beaten walks I’ll move - Heedful of each constraining etiquette; - Spread, like the rest of men, my board, and set - The ring upon the finger of my love! - - [_Takes a ring from his finger and holds it up._ - - SVANHILD [in breathless suspense]. - - You mean _that_? - - FALK. - - Yes, by us the world shall see, - Love has an everlasting energy, - That suffers not its splendour to take hurt - From the day’s dust, the common highway’s dirt. - Last night I showed you the ideal aflame, - Beaconing from a dizzy mountain’s brow. - You shuddered, for you were a woman,—now - I show you woman’s veritable aim;— - A soul like yours, what it has vowed, will keep. - You see the abyss before you,—Svanhild, leap! - - SVANHILD [_almost inaudibly_]. - - If we should fail—! - - FALK [_exulting_]. - - No, in your eyes I see - A gleam that surely prophesies our winning! - - SVANHILD. - - Then take me as I am, take all of me! - Now buds the young leaf; now my spring’s beginning! - - [_She flings herself boldly into his arms as the - curtain falls._ - - - - - ACT THIRD. - - _Evening. Bright moonlight. Coloured lanterns are hung about - the trees. In the background are covered tables with - bottles, glasses, biscuits, etc. From the house, which - is lighted up from top to bottom, subdued music and - singing are heard during the following scene._ SVANHILD - _stands on the verandah._ FALK _comes from the right - with some books and a portfolio under his arm. The_ - PORTER _follows with a portmanteau and a knapsack._ - - - FALK. - - That’s all, then? - - PORTER. - - Yes, sir, all is in the pack, - But just a satchel, and the paletot. - - FALK. - - Good; when I go, I’ll take them on my back. - Now off. See, this is the portfolio. - - PORTER. - - It’s locked, I see. - - FALK. - - Locked, Peter. - - PORTER. - - Good, sir. - - FALK. - - Pray, - Make haste and burn it. - - PORTER. - - Burn it? - - FALK. - - Yes, to ash— - - [_Smiling._ - - With every draft upon poetic cash; - As for the books, you’re welcome to them. - - PORTER. - - Nay, - Such payment is above a poor man’s earning. - But, sir, I’m thinking, if you can bestow - Your books, you must have done with all your learning? - - FALK. - - Whatever can be learnt from books I know, - And rather more. - - PORTER. - - More? Nay, that’s hard, I doubt! - - FALK. - - Well, now be off; the carriers wait without. - Just help them load the barrow ere you go. - - [_The_ PORTER _goes out to the left._ - - FALK [approaching SVANHILD who comes to meet him]. - - One moment’s ours, my Svanhild, in the light - Of God and of the lustrous summer night. - How the stars glitter thro’ the leafage, see, - Like bright fruit hanging on the great world-tree. - Now slavery’s last manacle I slip, - Now for the last time feel the wealing whip; - Like Israel at the Passover I stand, - Loins girded for the desert, staff in hand. - Dull generation, from whose sight is hid - The Promised Land beyond that desert flight, - Thrall tricked with knighthood, never the more knight, - Tomb thyself kinglike in the Pyramid,— - I cross the barren desert to be free. - My ship strides on despite an ebbing sea; - But there the Legion Lie shall find its doom, - And glut one deep, dark, hollow-vaulted tomb. - - [_A short pause; he looks at her and takes her hand._ - - You are so still! - - SVANHILD. - - So happy! Suffer me, - O suffer me in silence still to dream. - Speak you for me; my budding thoughts, grown strong, - One after one will burgeon into song, - Like lilies in the bosom of the stream. - - FALK. - - O say it once again, in truth’s pure tone - Beyond the fear of doubt, that thou art mine! - O say it, Svanhild, say— - - SVANHILD [_throwing herself on his neck_]. - - Yes, I am thine! - - FALK. - - Thou singing-bird God sent me for my own! - - SVANHILD. - - Homeless within my mother’s house I dwelt, - Lonely in all I thought, in all I felt, - A guest unbidden at the feast of mirth,— - Accounted nothing—less than nothing—worth. - Then you appeared! For the first time I heard - My own thought uttered in another’s word; - To my lame visions you gave wings and feet— - You young unmasker of the Obsolete! - Half with your caustic keenness you alarmed me, - Half with your radiant eloquence you charmed me, - As sea-girt forests summon with their spell - The sea their flinty beaches still repel. - Now I have read the bottom of your soul, - Now you have won me, undivided, whole; - Dear forest, where my tossing billows beat, - My tide’s at flood and never will retreat! - - FALK. - - And I thank God that in the bath of Pain - He purged my love. What strong compulsion drew - Me on I knew not, till I saw in you - The treasure I had blindly sought in vain. - I praise Him, who our love has lifted thus - To noble rank by sorrow,—licensed us - To a triumphal progress, bade us sweep - Thro’ fen and forest to our castle-keep, - A noble pair, astride on Pegasus! - - SVANHILD [_pointing to the house_]. - - The whole house, see, is making feast to-night. - There, in their honour, every room’s alight, - There cheerful talk and joyous song ring out; - On the highroad no passer-by will doubt - That men are happy where they are so gay. - - [_With compassion._ - - Poor sister!—happy in the great world’s way! - - FALK. - - “Poor” sister, say you? - - SVANHILD. - - Has she not divided - With kith and kin the treasure of her soul, - Her capital to fifty hands confided, - So that not one is debtor for the whole? - From no one has she _all_ things to receive, - For no one has she utterly to live. - O beside my wealth hers is little worth; - I have but one possession upon earth. - My heart was lordless when with trumpet blare - And multitudinous song you came, its king, - The banners of my thought your ensign bear, - You fill my soul with glory, like the spring. - Yes, I must needs thank God, when it is past, - That I was lonely till I found out thee,— - That I lay dead until the trumpet blast - Waken’d me from the world’s frivolity. - - FALK. - - Yes we, who have no friends on earth, we twain - Own the true wealth, the golden fortune,—we - Who stand without, beside the starlit sea, - And watch the indoor revel thro’ the pane. - Let the lamp glitter and the song resound, - Let the dance madly eddy round and round;— - Look up, my Svanhild, into yon deep blue,— - There glitter little lamps in thousands, too— - - SVANHILD. - - And hark, beloved, thro’ the limes there floats - This balmy eve a chorus of sweet notes— - - FALK. - - It is for us that fretted vault’s aglow— - - SVANHILD. - - It is for us the vale is loud below! - - FALK. - - I feel myself like God’s lost prodigal; - I left Him for the world’s delusive charms. - With mild reproof He wooed me to His arms; - And when I come, He lights the vaulted hall, - Prepares a banquet for the son restored, - And makes His noblest creature my reward. - From this time forth I’ll never leave that Light,— - But stand its armed defender in the fight; - Nothing shall part us, and our life shall prove - A song of glory to triumphant love! - - SVANHILD. - - And see how easy triumph is for two, - When he’s a man— - - FALK. - - She, woman thro’ and thro’;— - It is impossible for such to fall! - - SVANHILD. - - Then up, and to the war with want and sorrow; - This very hour I will declare it all! - - [_Pointing to_ FALK’S _ring on her finger._ - - FALK [_hastily_]. - - No, Svanhild, not to-night, wait till to-morrow! - To-night we gather our young love’s red rose; - ’Twere sacrilege to smirch it with the prose - Of common day. - - [_The door into the garden-room opens._ - - Your mother’s coming! Hide! - No eye this night shall see thee as my bride! - - [_They go out among the trees by the summer-house._ - MRS. HALM _and_ GULDSTAD _come out on the - balcony._ - - MRS. HALM. - - He’s really going? - - GULDSTAD. - - Seems so, I admit. - - STIVER [_coming_]. - - He’s going, madam! - - MRS. HALM. - - We’re aware of it! - - STIVER. - - A most unfortunate punctilio. - He’ll keep his word; his stubbornness I know. - In the Gazette he’ll put us all by name; - My love will figure under leaded headings, - With jilts, and twins, and countermanded weddings. - Listen; I tell you, if it weren’t for shame, - I would propose an armistice, a truce— - - MRS. HALM. - - You think he would be willing? - - STIVER. - - I deduce - The fact from certain signs, which indicate - That his tall talk about his Amor’s News - Was uttered in a far from sober state. - One proof especially, if not transcendent, - Yet tells most heavily against defendant: - It has been clearly proved that after dinner - To his and Lind’s joint chamber he withdrew, - And there displayed such singular demeanour - As leaves no question— - - GULDSTAD. - - [_Sees a glimpse of_ FALK _and_ SVANHILD, _who - separate_, FALK _going to the background_; - SVANHILD _remains standing hidden by the - summer-house._ - - Hold, we have the clue! - Madam, one word!—Falk does not mean to go, - Or if he does, he means it as a friend. - - STIVER. - - How, you believe then—? - - MRS. HALM. - - What do you intend? - - GULDSTAD. - - With the least possible delay I’ll show - That matters move precisely as you would. - Merely a word in private— - - MRS. HALM. - - Very good. - - [_They go together into the garden and are seen from - time to time in lively conversation._ - - STIVER. - - [_Descending into the garden discovers_ FALK, _who - is standing by the water and gazing over it._ - - These poets are mere men of vengeance, we - State servants understand diplomacy. - I need to labour for myself— - - [_Seeing_ STRAWMAN, _who enters from the garden-room._ - - Well met! - - STRAWMAN [_on the verandah_]. - - He’s really leaving! - - [_Going down to_ STIVER. - - Ah, my dear sir, let - Me beg you just a moment to go in - And hold my wife— - - STIVER. - - I—hold her, sir? - - STRAWMAN. - - I mean - In talk. The little ones and we are so - Unused to be divided, there is no - Escaping— - - [_His wife and children appear in the door._ - - Ha! already on my trail. - - MRS. STRAWMAN. - - Where are you, Strawman? - - STRAWMAN [_aside to_ STIVER]. - - Do invent some tale, - Something amusing—something to beguile! - - STIVER [_going on to the verandah_]. - - Pray, madam, have you read the official charge? - A masterpiece of literary style. - - [_Takes a book from his pocket._ - - Which I shall now proceed to cite at large. - - [_Ushers her politely into the room, and follows - himself._ FALK _comes forward; he and_ STRAWMAN - _meet; they regard one another a moment in - silence._ - - STRAWMAN. - - Well? - - FALK. - - Well? - - STRAWMAN. - - Falk! - - FALK. - - Pastor! - - STRAWMAN. - - Are you less - Intractable than when we parted? - - FALK. - - Nay, - I go my own inexorable way— - - STRAWMAN. - - Even tho’ you crush another’s happiness? - - FALK. - - I plant the flower of knowledge in its place. - - [_Smiling._ - - If, by the way, you have not ceased to think - Of the Gazette— - - STRAWMAN. - - Ah, that was all a joke? - - FALK. - - Yes, pluck up courage, that will turn to smoke; - I break the ice in action, not in ink. - - STRAWMAN. - - But even though you spare me, sure enough - There’s one who won’t so lightly let me off; - He has the advantage, and he won’t forego it, - That lawyer’s clerk—and ’tis to you I owe it; - You raked the ashes of our faded flames, - And you may take your oath he won’t be still - If once I mutter but a syllable - Against the brazen bluster of his claims. - These civil-service gentlemen, they say, - Are very potent in the press to-day. - A trumpery paragraph can lay me low, - Once printed in that Samson-like Gazette - That with the jaw of asses fells its foe, - And runs away with tackle and with net, - Especially towards the quarter day— - - FALK [_acquiescing_]. - - Ah, were there scandal in the case, indeed— - - STRAWMAN [_despondently_]. - - No matter. Read its columns with good heed, - You’ll see me offered up to Vengeance. - - FALK [_whimsically_]. - - Nay, - To retribution—well-earned punishment. - Thro’ all our life there runs a Nemesis, - Which may delay, but never will relent, - And grants to none exception or release. - Who wrongs the Ideal? Straight there rushes in - The Press, its guardian with the Argus eye, - And the offender suffers for his sin. - - STRAWMAN. - - But in the name of heaven, what pledge have I - Given this “Ideal” that’s ever on your tongue? - I’m married, have a family, twelve young - And helpless innocents to clothe and keep; - I have my daily calls on every side, - Churches remote and glebe and pasture wide, - Great herds of breeding cattle, ghostly sheep— - All to be watched and cared for, clipt and fed, - Grain to be winnowed, compost to be spread;— - Wanted all day in shippon and in stall, - What time have _I_ to serve the “Ideal” withal? - - FALK. - - Then get you home with what dispatch you may, - Creep snugly in before the winter-cold; - Look, in young Norway dawns at last the day, - Thousand brave hearts are in its ranks enroll’d, - Its banners in the morning breezes play! - - STRAWMAN. - - And if, young man, I were to take my way - With bag and baggage home, with everything - That made me yesterday a little king, - Were mine the only _volte face_ to-day? - Think you I carry back the wealth I brought? - - [_As FALK is about to answer._ - - Nay, listen, let me first explain my thought. - - [_Coming nearer._ - - Time was when I was young, like you, and played - Like you, the unconquerable Titan’s part; - Year after year I toiled and moiled for bread, - Which hardens a man’s hand, but not his heart. - For northern fells my lonely home surrounded, - And by my parish bounds my world was bounded. - My home—Ah, Falk, I wonder, do you know - What home is? - - FALK [_curtly_]. - - I have never known. - - STRAWMAN. - - Just so. - That is a home, where five may dwell with ease, - Tho’ two would be a crowd, if enemies. - That is a home, where all your thoughts play free - As boys and girls about their father’s knee, - Where speech no sooner touches heart, than tongue - Darts back an answering harmony of song; - Where you may grow from flax-haired snowy-polled, - And not a soul take note that you grow old; - Where memories grow fairer as they fade, - Like far blue peaks beyond the forest glade. - - FALK [_with constrained sarcasm_]. - - Come, you grow warm— - - STRAWMAN. - - Where you but jeered and flouted. - So utterly unlike God made us two! - I’m bare of that he lavished upon you. - But I have won the game where you were routed. - Seen from the clouds, full many a wayside grain - Of truth seems empty chaff and husks. You’d soar - To heaven, I scarcely reach the stable door, - One bird’s an eagle born— - - FALK. - - And one a hen. - - STRAWMAN. - - Yes, laugh away, and say it be so, grant - I am a hen. There clusters to my cluck - A crowd of little chickens,—which you want! - And I’ve the hen’s high spirit and her pluck, - And for my little ones forget myself. - You think me dull, I know it. Possibly - You pass a harsher judgment yet, decree - Me over covetous of worldly pelf. - Good, on that head we will not disagree. - - [_Seizes FALK’S arm and continues in a low tone but - with gathering vehemence._ - - You’re right, I’m dull and dense and grasping, yes; - But grasping for my God-given babes and wife, - And dense from struggling blindly for bare life, - And dull from sailing seas of loneliness. - Just when the pinnace of my youthful dream - Into the everlasting deep went down, - Another started from the ocean stream - Borne with a fair wind onward to life’s crown. - For every dream that vanished in the wave, - For every buoyant plume that broke asunder, - God sent me in return a little Wonder, - And gratefully I took the good He gave. - For them I strove, for them amassed, annexed,— - For them, for them, explained the Holy text; - My clustering girls, my garden of delight! - On them you’ve poured the venom of your spite! - You’ve proved, with all the cunning of the schools, - My bliss was but the paradise of fools, - That all I took for earnest was a jest;— - Now I implore, give me my quiet breast - Again, the flawless peace of mind I had— - - FALK. - - Prove, in a word, your title to be glad? - - STRAWMAN. - - Yes, in my path you’ve cast the stone of doubt, - And nobody but you can cast it out. - Between my kin and me you’ve set a bar,— - Remove the bar, the strangling noose undo— - - FALK. - - You possibly believe I keep the glue - Of lies for Happiness’s broken jar? - - STRAWMAN. - - I do believe, the faith your reasons tore - To shreds, your reasons may again restore; - The limb that you have shatter’d, you can set; - Reverse your judgment,—the whole truth unfold, - Restate the case—I’ll fly my banner yet— - - FALK [_haughtily_]. - - I stamp no copper Happiness as gold. - - STRAWMAN [_looking fixedly at him_]. - - Remember then that, lately, one whose scent - For truth is of the keenest told us this: - - [_With uplifted finger._ - - “There runs through all our life a Nemesis, - Which may delay, but never will relent.” - - [_He goes towards the house._ - - STIVER. - - [_Coming out with glasses on, and an open book in - his hand._ - - Pastor, you must come flying like the blast! - Your girls are sobbing— - - THE CHILDREN [_in the doorway_]. - - Pa! - - STIVER. - - And Madam waiting! - - [_STRAWMAN goes in._ - - This lady has no talent for debating. - - [_Puts the book and glasses in his pocket, and - approaches_ FALK. - - Falk! - - FALK. - - Yes! - - STIVER. - - I hope you’ve changed your mind at last? - - FALK. - - Why so? - - STIVER. - - For obvious reasons. To betray - Communications made in confidence, - Is conduct utterly without defence. - They must not pass the lips. - - FALK. - - No, I’ve heard say - It is at times a risky game to play. - - STIVER. - - The very devil! - - FALK. - - Only for the great. - - STIVER [_zealously_]. - - No, no, for all us servants of the state. - Only imagine how my future chances - Would dwindle, if the governor once knew - I keep a Pegasus that neighs and prances - In office hours—and such an office, too! - From first to last, you know, in our profession, - The winged horse is viewed with reprobation: - But worst of all would be, if it got wind - That I against our primal law had sinn’d - By bringing secret matters to the light— - - FALK. - - That’s penal, is it—such an oversight? - - STIVER [_mysteriously_]. - - It can a servant of the state compel - To beg for his dismissal out of hand. - On us officials lies a strict command, - Even by the hearth to be inscrutable. - - FALK. - - O those despotical authorities, - Muzzling the—clerk that treadeth out the grain! - - STIVER [_shrugging his shoulders_]. - - It is the law; to murmur is in vain. - Moreover, at a moment such as this, - When salary revision is in train, - It is not well to advertise one’s views - Of office time’s true function and right use. - That’s why I beg you to be silent; look, - A word may forfeit my— - - FALK. - - Portfolio? - - STIVER. - - Officially it’s called a transcript book; - A protocol’s the clasp upon the veil of snow - That shrouds the modest breast of the Bureau. - What lies beneath you must not seek to know. - - FALK. - - And yet I only spoke at your desire; - You hinted at your literary crop. - - STIVER. - - How should I guess he’d grovel in the mire - So deep, this parson perch’d on fortune’s top, - A man with snug appointments, children, wife, - And money to defy the ills of life? - If such a man prove such a Philistine, - What shall of us poor copyists be said? - Of me, who drive the quill and rule the line, - A man engaged and shortly to be wed, - With family in prospect—and so forth? - - [_More vehemently._ - - O, if I only had a well-lined berth, - I’d bind the armour’d helmet on my head, - And cry defiance to united earth! - And were I only unengaged like you, - Trust me, I’d break a road athwart the snow - Of Prose, and carry the Ideal through! - - FALK. - - To work then, man! - - STIVER. - - How? - - FALK. - - You may still do so! - Let the world’s prudish owl unheeded flutter by; - Freedom converts the grub into a butterfly! - - STIVER [_stepping back_]. - - You mean, to break the engagement—? - - FALK. - - That’s my mind;— - The fruit is gone, why keep the empty rind? - - STIVER. - - Such a proposal’s for a green young shoot, - Not for a man of judgment and repute. - I heed not what King Christian in his time - (The Fifth) laid down about engagements broken-off; - For that relationship is nowhere spoken of - In any rubric of the code of crime. - The act would not be criminal in name, - It would in no way violate the laws— - - FALK. - - Why there, you see then! - - STIVER [_firmly_]. - - Yes, but all the same,— - I must reject all pleas in such a cause. - Staunch comrades we have been in times of dearth; - Of life’s disport she asks but little share, - And I’m a homely fellow, long aware - God made me for the ledger and the hearth. - Let others emulate the eagle’s flight, - Life in the lowly plains may be as bright. - What does his Excellency Goethe say - About the white and shining milky way? - Man may not there the milk of fortune skim, - Nor is the butter of it meant for him. - - FALK. - - Why, even were fortune-churning our life’s goal, - The labour must be guided by the soul;— - Be citizens of the time that is—but then - Make the time worthy of the citizen. - In homely things lurks beauty, without doubt, - But watchful eye and brain must draw it out. - Not every man who loves the soil he turns - May therefore claim to be another Burns. - - STIVER. - - Then let us each our proper path pursue, - And part in peace; we shall not hamper you; - We keep the road, you hover in the sky, - There where we too once floated, she and I. - But work, not song, provides our daily bread, - And when a man’s alive, his music’s dead. - A young man’s life’s a lawsuit, and the most - Superfluous litigation in existence: - Withdraw, make terms, abandon all resistance: - Plead where and how you will, your suit is lost. - - FALK [_bold and confident, with a glance at the - summer-house_]. - - Nay, tho’ I took it to the highest place,— - Judgment, I know, would be reversed by grace! - I know two hearts can live a life complete, - With hope still ardent, and with faith still sweet; - You preach the wretched gospel of the hour, - That the Ideal is secondary! - - STIVER. - - No! - It’s primary: appointed, like the flower, - To generate the fruit, and then to go. - - [_Indoors_, MISS JAY _plays and sings: “In the - Gloaming.”_ STIVER _stands listening in silent - emotion._ - - With the same melody she calls me yet - Which thrilled me to the heart when first we met. - - [_Lays his hand on FALK’S arm and gazes intently at - him._ - - Oft as she wakens those pathetic notes, - From the white keys reverberating floats - An echo of the “yes” that made her mine. - And when our passions shall one day decline, - To live again as friendship, to the last - That song shall link that present to this past. - And what tho’ at the desk my back grow round, - And my day’s work a battle for mere bread, - Yet joy will lead me homeward, where the dead - Enchantment will be born again in sound. - If one poor bit of evening we can claim, - I shall come off undamaged from the game! - - [_He goes into the house._ FALK _turns towards the - summer-house._ SVANHILD _comes out, she is pale - and agitated. They gaze at each other in silence - a moment, and fling themselves impetuously into - each other’s arms._ - - FALK. - - O, Svanhild, let us battle side by side! - Thou fresh glad blossom flowering by the tomb,— - See what the life is that they call youth’s bloom! - There’s coffin-stench of bridegroom and of bride; - There’s coffin-stench wherever two go by - At the street corner, smiling outwardly, - With falsehood’s reeking sepulchre beneath, - And in their blood the apathy of death. - And this they think is living! Heaven and earth, - Is such a load so many antics worth? - For such an end to haul up babes in shoals, - To pamper them with honesty and reason, - To feed them fat with faith one sorry season, - For service, after killing-day, as souls? - - SVANHILD. - - Falk, let us travel! - - FALK. - - Travel? Whither, then? - Is not the whole world everywhere the same? - And does not Truth’s own mirror in its frame - Lie equally to all the sons of men? - No, we will stay and watch the merry game, - The conjurer’s trick, the tragi-comedy - Of liars that are dupes of their own lie; - Stiver and Lind, the Parson and his dame, - See them,—prize oxen harness’d to love’s yoke, - And yet at bottom very decent folk! - Each wears for others and himself a mask, - Yet one too innocent to take to task; - Each one, a stranded sailor on a wreck, - Counts himself happy as the gods in heaven; - Each his own hand from Paradise has driven, - Then, splash! into the sulphur to the neck! - But none has any inkling where he lies, - Each thinks himself a knight of Paradise, - And each sits smiling between howl and howl; - And if the Fiend come by with jeer and growl, - With horns, and hoofs, and things yet more abhorred,— - Then each man jogs the neighbour at his jowl: - “Off with your hat, man! See, there goes the Lord!” - - SVANHILD [_after a brief thoughtful silence_]. - - How marvellous a love my steps have led - To this sweet trysting place! My life that sped - In frolic and fantastic visions gay, - Henceforth shall grow one ceaseless working day! - O God! I wandered groping,—all was dim: - Thou gavest me light—and I discovered _him_! - - [_Gazing at_ FALK _in love and wonder._ - - Whence is that strength of thine, thou mighty tree - That stand’st unshaken in the wind-wrecked wood, - That stand’st alone, and yet canst shelter me—? - - FALK. - - God’s truth, my Svanhild;—that gives fortitude. - - SVANHILD [_with a shy glance towards the house_]. - - They came like tempters, evilly inclined, - Each spokesman for his half of humankind, - One asking: How can true love reach its goal - When riches’ leaden weight subdues the soul? - The other asking: How can true love speed - When life’s a battle to the death with Need? - O horrible!—to bid the world receive - That teaching as the truth, and yet to live! - - FALK. - - How if ’twere meant for us? - - SVANHILD. - - For us?—What, then? - Can outward fate control the wills of men? - I have already said: if thou’lt stand fast, - I’ll dare and suffer by thee to the last. - How light to listen to the gospel’s voice, - To leave one’s home behind, to weep, rejoice, - And take with God the husband of one’s choice! - - FALK [_embracing her_]. - - Come then, and blow thy worst, thou winter weather! - We stand unshaken, for we stand together! - - [MRS. HALM _and_ GULDSTAD _come in from the right in - the background._ - - GULDSTAD [aside]. - - Observe! - - [FALK _and_ SVANHILD _remain standing by the - summer-house._ - - MRS. HALM [_surprised_]. - - Together! - - GULDSTAD. - - Do you doubt it now? - - MRS. HALM. - - This is most singular. - - GULDSTAD. - - O, I’ve noted how - His work of late absorb’d his interest. - - MRS. HALM [_to herself_]. - - Who would have fancied Svanhild was so sly? - - [_Vivaciously to_ GULDSTAD. - - But no—I can’t think. - - GULDSTAD. - - Put it to the test. - - MRS. HALM. - - Now, on the spot? - - GULDSTAD - - Yes, and decisively! - - MRS. HALM [_giving him her hand_]. - - God’s blessing with you! - - GULDSTAD [_gravely_]. - - Thanks, it may bestead. - - [_Comes to the front._ - - MRS. HALM [_looking back as she goes towards the house_]. - - Whichever way it goes, my child is sped. - - [_Goes in._ - - GULDSTAD [_approaching FALK_]. - - It’s late, I think? - - FALK. - - Ten minutes and I go. - - GULDSTAD. - - Sufficient for my purpose. - - SVANHILD [_going_]. - - Farewell. - - GULDSTAD. - - No, - Remain. - - SVANHILD. - - Shall I? - - GULDSTAD. - - Until you’ve answered me. - It’s time we squared accounts. It’s time we three - Talked out for once together from the heart. - - FALK [_taken aback_]. - - We three? - - GULDSTAD. - - Yes,—all disguises flung apart. - - FALK [_suppressing a smile_]. - - O, at your service. - - GULDSTAD. - - Very good, then hear. - We’ve been acquainted now for half a year; - We’ve wrangled— - - FALK. - - Yes. - - GULDSTAD. - - We’ve been in constant feud; - We’ve changed hard blows enough. You fought—alone— - For a sublime ideal; I as one - Among the money-grubbing multitude. - And yet it seemed as if a chord united - Us two, as if a thousand thoughts that lay - Deep in my own youth’s memory benighted - Had started at your bidding into day. - Yes, I amaze you. But this hair grey-sprinkled - Once fluttered brown in spring-time, and this brow, - Which daily occupation moistens now - With sweat of labour, was not always wrinkled. - Enough; I am a man of business, hence— - - FALK [_with gentle sarcasm_]. - - You are the type of practical good sense. - - GULDSTAD. - - And you are hope’s own singer young and fain. - - [_Stepping between them._ - - Just therefore, Falk and Svanhild, I am here. - Now let us talk, then; for the hour is near - Which brings good hap or sorrow in its train. - - FALK [_in suspense_]. - - Speak, then! - - GULDSTAD [_smiling_]. - - My ground is, as I said last night, - A kind of poetry— - - FALK. - - In practice. - - GULDSTAD [_nodding slowly_]. - - Right! - - FALK. - - And if one asked the source from which you drew—? - - GULDSTAD. - - [_Glancing a moment at_ SVANHILD, _and then turning - again to_ FALK. - - A common source discovered by us two. - - SVANHILD. - - Now I must go. - - GULDSTAD. - - No, wait till I conclude. - I should not ask so much of others. You, - Svanhild, I’ve learnt to fathom thro’ and thro’; - You are too sensible to play the prude. - I watched expand, unfold, your little life; - A perfect woman I divined within you, - But long I only saw a daughter in you;— - Now I ask of you—will you be my wife? - - [SVANHILD _draws back in embarrassment._ - - FALK [_seizing his arm_]. - - Hold! - - GULDSTAD. - - Patience; she must answer. Put your own - Question;—then her decision will be free. - - FALK. - - I—do you say? - - GULDSTAD [_looking steadily at him_]. - - The happiness of three - Lives is at stake to-day,—not mine alone. - Don’t fancy it concerns you less than me; - For tho’ base matter is my chosen sphere, - Yet nature made me something of a seer. - Yes, Falk, you love her. Gladly, I confess, - I saw your young love bursting into flower. - But this young passion, with its lawless power, - May be the ruin of her happiness. - - FALK [_firing up_]. - - You have the face to say so? - - GULDSTAD [_quietly_]. - - Years give right. - Say now you won her— - - FALK [_defiantly_]. - - And what then? - - GULDSTAD [_slowly and emphatically_]. - - Yes, say - She ventured in one bottom to embark - Her _all_, her all upon one card to play,— - And then life’s tempest swept the ship away, - And the flower faded as the day grew dark? - - FALK [_involuntarily_]. - - She must not! - - GULDSTAD [_looking at him with meaning_]. - - Hm. So I myself decided - When I was young, like you. In days of old - I was afire for one. Our paths divided. - Last night we met again;—the fire was cold. - - FALK. - - Last night? - - GULDSTAD. - - Last night. You know the parson’s dame— - - FALK. - - What? It was _she_, then, who— - - GULDSTAD. - - Who lit the flame. - Long I remembered her with keen regret, - And still in my remembrance she arose - As the young lovely woman that she was - When in life’s buoyant spring-time first we met. - And that same foolish fire you now are fain - To light, that game of hazard you would dare. - See, that is why I call to you—beware! - The game is perilous! Pause, and think again! - - FALK. - - No, to the whole tea-caucus I declared - My fixed and unassailable belief— - - GULDSTAD [_completing his sentence_]. - - That heartfelt love can weather unimpaired - Custom, and Poverty, and Age, and Grief. - Well, say it be so; possibly you’re right; - But see the matter in another light. - What _love_ is, no man ever told us—whence - It issues, that ecstatic confidence - That one life may fulfil itself in two,— - To this no mortal ever found the clue. - But _marriage_ is a practical concern, - As also is betrothal, my good sir— - And by experience easily we learn - That we are fitted just for _her_, or _her_. - But love, you know, goes blindly to its fate, - Chooses a woman, not a wife, for mate; - And what if now this chosen woman was - No wife for you—? - - FALK [_in suspense_]. - - Well? - - GULDSTAD [_shrugging his shoulders_]. - - Then you’ve lost your cause. - To make a happy bridegroom and a bride - Demands not love alone, but much beside, - Relations one can meet with satisfaction, - Ideas that do not wholly disagree. - And marriage? Why, it is a very sea - Of claims and calls, of taxing and exaction, - Whose bearing upon love is very small. - Here mild domestic virtues are demanded, - A kitchen soul, inventive and neat handed, - Making no claims, and executing all;— - And much which in a lady’s presence I - Can hardly with decorum specify. - - FALK. - - And therefore—? - - GULDSTAD. - - Hear a golden counsel then. - Use your experience; watch your fellow-men, - How every loving couple struts and swaggers - Like millionaires among a world of beggars. - They scamper to the altar, lad and lass, - They make a home and, drunk with exultation, - Dwell for awhile within its walls of glass. - Then comes the day of reckoning;—out, alas, - They’re bankrupt, and their house in liquidation! - Bankrupt the bloom of youth on woman’s brow, - Bankrupt the flower of passion in her breast, - Bankrupt the husband’s battle-ardour now, - Bankrupt each spark of passion he possessed. - Bankrupt the whole estate, below, above,— - And yet this broken pair were once confessed - A first-class house in all the wares of love! - - FALK [_vehemently_]. - - That is a lie! - - GULDSTAD [_unmoved_]. - - Some hours ago ’twas true - However. I have only quoted you;— - In these same words you challenged to the field - The “caucus” with love’s name upon your shield. - Then rang repudiation fast and thick - From all directions, as from you at present; - Incredible, I know; who finds it pleasant - To hear the name of death when he is sick? - Look at the priest! A painter and composer - Of taste and spirit when he wooed his bride;— - What wonder if the man became a proser - When she was snugly settled by his side? - To be his lady-love she was most fit; - To be his wife, tho’—not a bit of it. - And then the clerk, who once wrote clever numbers? - No sooner was the gallant plighted, fixed, - Than all his rhymes ran counter and got mixed; - And now his Muse continuously slumbers, - Lullabied by the law’s eternal hum. - Thus you see— [_Looks at_ SVANHILD. - - Are you cold? - - SVANHILD [_softly_]. - - No. - - FALK [_with forced humour_]. - - Since the sum - Works out a _minus_ then in every case - And never shows a _plus_,—why should you be - So resolute your capital to place - In such a questionable lottery? - It almost looks as if you fancied Fate - Had meant you for a bankrupt from your birth? - - GULDSTAD [_looks at him, smiles, and shakes his head_]. - - My bold young Falk, reserve a while your mirth.— - There are two ways of founding an estate. - It may be built on credit—drafts long-dated - On pleasure in a never-ending bout, - On perpetuity of youth unbated, - And permanent postponement of the gout. - It may be built on lips of rosy red, - On sparkling eyes and locks of flowing gold, - On trust these glories never will be shed, - Nor the dread hour of periwigs be tolled. - It may be built on thoughts that glow and quiver,— - Flowers blowing in the sandy wilderness,— - On hearts that, to the end of life, for ever - Throb with the passion of the primal “yes.” - To dealings such as this the world extends - One epithet: ’tis known as “humbug,” friends. - - FALK. - - I see, you are a dangerous attorney, - You—well-to-do, a millionaire may-be; - While two broad backs could carry in one journey - All that beneath the sun belongs to me. - - GULDSTAD [_sharply_]. - - What do you mean? - - FALK. - - That is not hard to see. - For the sound way of building, I suppose, - Is just with cash—the wonder-working paint - That round the widow’s batten’d forehead throws - The aureole of a young adored saint. - - GULDSTAD. - - O no, ’tis something better that I meant. - ’Tis the still flow of generous esteem, - Which no less honours the recipient - Than does young rapture’s giddy-whirling dream. - It is the feeling of the blessedness - Of service, and home quiet, and tender ties, - The joy of mutual self-sacrifice, - Of keeping watch lest any stone distress - Her footsteps wheresoe’er her pathway lies; - It is the healing arm of a true friend, - The manly muscle that no burdens bend, - The constancy no length of years decays, - The arm that stoutly lifts and firmly stays. - This, Svanhild, is the contribution I - Bring to your fortune’s fabric: now, reply. - - [SVANHILD _makes an effort to speak;_ GULDSTAD - _lifts his hand to check her._ - - Consider well before you give your voice! - With clear deliberation make your choice. - - FALK. - - And how have you discovered— - - GULDSTAD. - - That you love her? - That in your eyes ’twas easy to discover. - Let her too know it. [_Presses his hand._ - Now I will go in. - Let the jest cease and earnest work begin; - And if you undertake that till the end - You’ll be to her no less a faithful friend, - A staff to lean on, and a help in need, - Than I can be— [_Turning to_ SVANHILD. - Why, good, my offer’s nought; - Cancel it from the tables of your thought. - Then it is I who triumph in very deed; - You’re happy, and for nothing else I fought. - - [_To_ FALK. - - And, apropos—just now you spoke of cash, - Trust me, ’tis little more than tinsell’d trash. - I have no ties, stand perfectly alone; - To you I will make over all I own; - My daughter she shall be, and you my son. - You know I have a business by the border: - There I’ll retire, you set your home in order, - And we’ll foregather when a year is gone. - Now, Falk, you know me; with the same precision - Observe yourself: the voyage down life’s stream, - Remember, is no pastime and no dream. - Now, in the name of God—make your decision! - - [_Goes into the house. Pause._ FALK _and_ SVANHILD - _look shyly at each other._ - - FALK. - - You are so pale. - - SVANHILD. - - And you so silent. - - FALK. - - True. - - SVANHILD. - - He smote us hardest. - - FALK. [_to himself_]. - - Stole my armour, too. - - SVANHILD. - - What blows he struck! - - FALK. - - He knew to place them well. - - SVANHILD. - - All seemed to go to pieces where they fell. - - [_Coming nearer to him._ - - How rich in one another’s wealth before - We were, when all had left us in despite, - And Thought rose upward like the echoing roar - Of breakers in the silence of the night. - With exultation then we faced the fray, - And confidence that Love is lord of death;— - He came with worldly cunning, stole our faith, - Sowed doubt,—and all the glory pass’d away! - - FALK [_with wild vehemence_]. - - Tear, tear it from thy memory! All his talk - Was true for others, but for us a lie! - - SVANHILD [_slowly shaking her head_]. - - The golden grain, hail-stricken on its stalk, - Will never more wave wanton to the sky. - - FALK [_with an outburst of anguish_]. - - Yes, we two, Svanhild—! - - SVANHILD. - - Hence with hopes that snare! - If you sow falsehood, you must reap despair. - For others true, you say? And do you doubt - That each of them, like us, is sure, alike, - That he’s the man the lightning will not strike, - And no avenging thunder will find out, - Whom the blue storm-cloud, scudding up the sky - On wings of tempest, never can come nigh? - - FALK. - - The others split their souls on scattered ends: - Thy single love my being comprehends. - They’re hoarse with yelling in life’s Babel din: - I in this quiet shelter fold thee in. - - SVANHILD. - - But if love, notwithstanding, should decay, - —Love being Happiness’s single stay— - Could you avert, then, Happiness’s fall? - - FALK. - - No, my love’s ruin were the wreck of all. - - SVANHILD. - - And can you promise me before the Lord - That it will last, not drooping like the flower, - But smell as sweet as now till life’s last hour? - - FALK [_after a short pause_]. - - It will last long. - - SVANHILD [_with anguish_]. - - “Long!” “Long!”—Poor starveling word! - Can “long” give any comfort in Love’s need? - It is her death-doom, blight upon her seed. - “My faith is, Love will never pass away”— - _That_ song must cease, and in its stead be heard: - “My faith is, that I loved you yesterday!” - - [_As uplifted by inspiration._ - - No, no, not thus our day of bliss shall wane, - Flag drearily to west in clouds and rain;— - But at high noontide, when it is most bright, - Plunge sudden, like a meteor, into night! - - FALK. [_in anguish_]. - - What would you, Svanhild? - - SVANHILD. - - We are of the Spring; - No Autumn shall come after, when the bird - Of music in thy breast shall not be heard, - And long not thither where it first took wing. - Nor ever Winter shall his snowy shroud - Lay on the clay-cold body of our bliss;— - This Love of ours, ardent and glad and proud, - Pure of disease’s taint and age’s cloud, - Shall die the young and glorious thing it is! - - FALK [_in deep pain_]. - - And far from thee—what would be left of life? - - SVANHILD. - - And near me what were left—if Love depart? - - FALK. - - A home! - - SVANHILD. - - Where Joy would gasp in mortal strife. - - [_Firmly._ - - It was not given to me to be your wife. - That is the clear conviction of my heart! - In courtship’s merry pastime I can lead, - But not sustain your spirit in its need. - - [_Nearer and with gathering fire._ - - Now we have revell’d out a feast of spring; - No thought of slumber’s sluggard couch come nigh! - Let Joy amid delirious song make wing - And flock with choirs of cherubim on high. - And tho’ the vessel of our fate capsize, - One plank yet breasts the waters, strong to save;— - The fearless swimmer reaches Paradise! - Let Joy go down into his watery grave; - Our Love shall yet in triumph, by God’s hand, - Be borne from out the wreckage safe to land! - - FALK. - - O, I divine thee! But—to sever thus! - Now, when the portals of the world stand wide,— - When the blue spring is bending over us, - On the same day that plighted thee my bride! - - SVANHILD. - - Just therefore must we part. Our joy’s torch fire - Will from this moment wane till it expire! - And when at last our worldly days are spent, - And face to face with our great Judge we stand, - And, as a righteous God, he shall demand - Of us the earthly treasure that he lent— - Then, Falk, we cry—past power of Grace to save— - “O Lord, we lost it going to the grave!” - - FALK [_with strong resolve_]. - - Pluck off the ring! - - SVANHILD [_with fire_]. - - Wilt thou? - - FALK. - - Now I divine! - Thus and no otherwise canst thou be mine! - As the grave opens into life’s Dawn-fire, - So Love with Life may not espoused be - Till, loosed from longing and from wild desire, - It soars into the heaven of memory! - Pluck off the ring, Svanhild! - - SVANHILD [_in rapture_]. - - My task is done! - Now I have filled thy soul with song and sun. - Forth! Now thou soarest on triumphant wings,— - Forth! Now thy Svanhild is the swan that sings! - - [_Takes off the ring and presses a kiss upon it._ - - To the abysmal ooze of ocean bed - Descend, my dream!—I fling thee in its stead! - - [_Goes a few steps back, throws the ring into the - fjord, and approaches_ FALK _with a transfigured - expression._ - - Now for this earthly life I have foregone thee,— - But for the life eternal I have won thee! - - FALK [_firmly_]. - - And now to the day’s duties, each, alone. - Our paths no more will mingle. Each must wage - His warfare single-handed, without moan. - We caught the fevered frenzy of the age, - Fain without fighting to secure the spoil, - Win Sabbath ease, and shirk the six days’ toil, - Tho’ we are called to strive and to forego. - - SVANHILD. - - But not in sickness. - - FALK. - - No,—made strong by truth. - Our heads no penal flood will overflow; - This never-dying memory of our youth - Shall gleam against the cloud-wrack like the bow - Of promise flaming in its colours seven,— - Sign that we are in harmony with heaven. - That gleam your quiet duties shall make bright— - - SVANHILD. - - And speed the poet in his upward flight! - - FALK. - - The poet, yes; for poets all men are - Who see, thro’ all their labours, mean or great, - In pulpit or in schoolroom, church or state, - The Ideal’s lone beacon-splendour flame afar. - Yes, upward is my flight; the winged steed - Is saddled; I am strung for noble deed. - And now, farewell! - - SVANHILD. - - Farewell! - - FALK [_embracing her_]. - - One kiss! - - SVANHILD. - - The last! - - [_Tears herself free._ - - Now I can lose thee gladly till life’s past! - - FALK. - - Tho’ quenched were all the light of earth and sky,— - The thought of light is God, and cannot die. - - SVANHILD [_withdrawing towards the background_]. - - Farewell! - - [_Goes further._ - - FALK. - - Farewell—gladly I cry again— - - [_Waves his hat._ - - Hurrah for love, God’s glorious gift to men! - - [_The door opens._ FALK _withdraws to the right; the - younger guests come out with merry laughter._ - - THE YOUNG GIRLS. - - A lawn dance! - - A YOUNG GIRL. - - Dancing’s life! - - ANOTHER. - - A garland spread - With dewy blossoms fresh on every head! - - SEVERAL. - - Yes, to the dance, the dance! - - ALL. - - And ne’er to bed! - - [STIVER _comes out with_ STRAWMAN _arm in arm._ MRS. - STRAWMAN _and the children follow._ - - STIVER. - - Yes, you and I henceforward are fast friends. - - STRAWMAN. - - Allied in battle for our common ends. - - STIVER. - - When the twin forces of the State agree— - - STRAWMAN. - - They add to all men’s— - - STIVER [_hastily_]. - - Gains! - - STRAWMAN. - - And gaiety. - - [MRS. HALM, LIND, ANNA, GULDSTAD, _and_ MISS JAY, - _with the other guests, come out. All eyes are - turned upon_ FALK _and_ SVANHILD. _General - amazement when they are seen standing apart._ - - MISS JAY [_among the_ AUNTS, _clasping her hands_]. - - What! Am I awake or dreaming, pray? - - LIND [_who has noticed nothing_]. - - I have a brother’s compliments to pay. - - [_He, with the other guests, approaches_ FALK, _but - starts involuntarily and steps back on looking - at him._ - - What is the matter with you? You’re a Janus - With double face! - - FALK [_smiling_]. - - I cry, like old Montanus, - The earth is flat, Messieurs;—my optics lied; - Flat as a pancake—are you satisfied? - - [_Goes quickly out to the right._ - - MISS JAY. - - Refused! - - THE AUNTS. - - Refused! - - MRS. HALM. - - Hush, ladies, if you please! - - [_Goes across to_ SVANHILD. - - MRS. STRAWMAN [_to STRAWMAN_]. - - Fancy, refused! - - STRAWMAN. - - It cannot be! - - MISS JAY. - - It is! - - THE LADIES [_from mouth to mouth_]. - - Refused! Refused! Refused! - - [_They gather in little groups about the garden._ - - STIVER [_dumfounded_]. - - _He_ courting? How? - - STRAWMAN. - - Yes, think! He laugh’d at us, ha, ha—but - now— - - [_They gaze at each other speechless._ - - ANNA [_to_ LIND]. - - That’s good! He was too horrid, to be sure! - - LIND [_embracing her_]. - - Hurrah, now thou art mine, entire and whole. - - [_They go outside into the garden._ - - GULDSTAD [_looking back towards_ SVANHILD]. - - Something is shattered in a certain soul; - But what is yet alive in it I’ll cure. - - STRAWMAN [_recovering himself and embracing_ STIVER]. - - Now then, you can be very well contented - To have your dear _fiancée_ for a spouse. - - STIVER. - - And you complacently can see your house - With little Strawmans every year augmented. - - STRAWMAN - - [_Rubbing his hands with satisfaction and looking - after_ FALK. - - Insolent fellow! Well, it served him right;— - Would all these knowing knaves were in his plight! - - [_They go across in conversation_; MRS. HALM - _approaches with_ SVANHILD. - - MRS. HALM [_aside, eagerly_]. - - And nothing binds you? - - SVANHILD. - - Nothing. - - MRS. HALM. - - Good, you know - A daughter’s duty— - - SVANHILD. - - Guide me, I obey. - - MRS. HALM - - Thanks, child. - - [_Pointing to_ GULDSTAD. - - He is a rich and _comme il faut - Parti_; and since there’s nothing in the way— - - SVANHILD. - - Yes, there is one condition I require!— To leave this place. - - MRS. HALM. - - Precisely his desire. - - SVANHILD. - - And time— - - MRS. HALM. - - How long? Bethink you, fortune’s calling! - - SVANHILD [_with a quiet smile_]. - - Only a little; till the leaves are falling. - - [_She goes towards the verandah;_ MRS. HALM _seeks - out_ GULDSTAD. - - STRAWMAN [_among the guests_]. - - One lesson, friends, we learn from this example! - Tho’ Doubt’s beleaguering forces hem us in, - Yet Truth upon the Serpent’s head shall trample, - The cause of Love shall win— - - GUESTS. - - Yes, Love shall win! - - [_They embrace and kiss, pair by pair. Outside to - the left are heard song and laughter._ - - MISS JAY. - - What can this mean? - - ANNA. - - The students! - - LIND. - - The quartette, - Bound for the mountains;—and I quite forgot - To tell them— - - [_The_ STUDENTS _come in to the left and remain - standing at the entrance._ - - A STUDENT [_to_ LIND]. - - Here we are upon the spot! - - MRS. HALM. - - It’s Lind you seek, then? - - MISS JAY. - - That’s unfortunate. - He’s just engaged— - - AN AUNT. - - And so, you may be sure, - He cannot think of going on a tour. - - THE STUDENTS. - - Engaged! - - ALL THE STUDENTS. - - Congratulations! - - LIND [_to his comrades_]. - - Thanks, my friends! - - THE STUDENT [_to his comrades_]. - - There goes our whole fish-kettle in the fire! - Our tenor lost! No possible amends! - - FALK - - [_Coming from the right, in summer suit, with - student’s cap, knapsack and stick._ - - _I_’ll sing the tenor in young Norway’s choir! - - THE STUDENTS. - - You, Falk! hurrah! - - FALK. - - Forth to the mountains, come! - As the bee hurries from her winter home! - A twofold music in my breast I bear, - A cither with diversely sounding strings, - One for life’s joy, a treble loud and clear, - And one deep note that quivers as it sings. - - [_To individuals among the_ STUDENTS. - - You have the palette?—You the note-book? Good, - Swarm then, my bees, into the leafy wood, - Till at night-fall with pollen-laden thigh, - Home to our mighty mother-queen we fly! - - [_Turning to the company, while the_ STUDENTS - _depart and the Chorus of the First Act is - faintly heard outside._ - - Forgive me my offences great and small, - I resent nothing;— - - [_Softly._ - - but remember all. - - STRAWMAN [_beaming with happiness_]. - - Now fortune’s garden once again is green! - My wife has hopes,—a sweet presentiment— - - [_Draws him whispering apart._ - - She lately whispered of a glad event— - - [_Inaudible words intervene._ - - If all goes well ... at Michaelmas ... thirteen! - - STIVER - - [_With_ MISS JAY _on his arm, turning to_ FALK, - _smiles triumphantly, and says, pointing to_ - STRAWMAN: - - I’m going to start a household, flush of pelf! - - MISS JAY [_with an ironical courtesy_]. - - I shall put on my wedding-ring next Yule. - - ANNA [_similarly, as she takes_ LIND’S _arm_]. - - My Lind will stay, the Church can mind itself— - - LIND [_hiding his embarrassment_]. - - And seek an opening in a ladies’ school. - - MRS. HALM. - - I cultivate my Anna’s capabilities— - - GULDSTAD [_gravely_]. - - An unromantic poem I mean to make - Of one who only lives for duty’s sake. - - FALK [_with a smile to the whole company_]. - - I go to scale the Future’s possibilities! - Farewell! [_Softly to_ SVANHILD. - - God bless thee, bride of my life’s dawn, - Where’er I be, to nobler deed thou’lt wake me. - - - - [_Waves his hat and follows the_ STUDENTS. - - SVANHILD. - - [_Looks after him a moment, then says, softly but - firmly:_ - - Now over is my life, by lea and lawn, - The leaves are falling;—now the world may take me. - - [_At this moment the piano strikes up a dance, and - champagne corks explode in the background. The - gentlemen hurry to and fro with their ladies on - their arms._ GULDSTAD _approaches_ SVANHILD _and - bows: she starts momentarily, then collects - herself and gives him her hand._ MRS. HALM _and - her family, who have watched the scene in - suspense, throng about them with expressions of - rapture, which are overpowered by the music and - the merriment of the dancers in the garden._ - - [_But from the country the following chorus rings - loud and defiant through the dance music:_ - - CHORUS OF FALK AND THE STUDENTS. - - And what if I shattered my roaming bark, It was - passing sweet to be roaming! - - MOST OF THE COMPANY. - - Hurrah! - - [_Dance and merriment; the curtain falls._ - - - - - NOTES - - - P. 18. “_William Russel._” An original historic tragedy, founded - upon the career of the ill-fated Lord William Russell, by Andreas - Munch, cousin of the historian P. A. Munch. It was produced at - Christiania in 1857, the year of Ibsen’s return from Bergen, and - reviewed by him in the _Illustreret Nyhedsblad_ for that year, Nos. - 51 and 52. Professor Johan Storm of Christiania, to whose kindness I - owe these particulars, adds that “it is rather a fine play and - created a certain sensation in its time; but Munch is forgotten.” - - P. 20. _A grey old stager._ Ibsen’s friend P. Botten-Hansen, author - of the play _Hyldrebryllupet_. - - P. 59. _A Svanhild like the old._ In the tale of the Völsungs - Svanhild was the daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun,—the Siegfried and - Kriemhild of the _Nibelungenlied_. The fierce king Jormunrek, - hearing of her matchless beauty, sends his son Randwer to woo her in - his name. Randwer is, however, induced to woo her in his own, and - the girl approves. Jormunrek thereupon causes Randwer to be arrested - and hanged, and meeting with Svanhild, as he and his men ride home - from the hunt, tramples her to death under their horses’ hoofs. - Gudrun incites her sons Sorli and Hamdir to avenge their sister; - they boldly enter Jormunrek’s hall, and succeed in cutting off his - hands and feet, but are themselves slain by his men. This last - dramatic episode is told in the Eddic _Hamthismol_. - - P. 94. _In the remotest east there grows a plant._ The germ of the - famous tea-simile is due to Fru Collett’s romance, “The Official’s - Daughters” (_cf._ Introduction, p. ix.). But she exploits the idea - only under a single and obvious aspect, viz., the comparison of the - tender bloom of love with the precious firstling blade which brews - the quintessential tea for the Chinese emperor’s table; what the - world calls love being, like what it calls tea, a coarse and - flavourless aftercrop. Ibsen has, it will be seen, given a number of - ingenious developments to the analogy. I know Fru Collett’s work - only through the accounts of it given by Brandes and Jæger. - - P. 135. _Another Burns._ In the original: “Dölen” (“The Dalesman”), - that is A. O. Vinje, Ibsen’s friend and literary comrade, editor of - the journal so-called and hence known familiarly by its name. See - the Introduction. - - P. 160. _Like Old Montanus._ The hero of Holberg’s comedy _Erasmus - Montanus_, who returns from foreign travel to his native parish with - the discovery that the world is not flat. Public indignation is - aroused, and Montanus finds it expedient to announce that his eyes - had deceived him, that “the world _is_ flat, gentlemen.” - - - - - ERRATA IN LATER VOLUMES - - VOLUME II - - Page 65, lines 13 and 15 from bottom, _for_ “Thorold” _read_ - “Thorolf.” - Page 223, line 10 from top, _for_ “our” _read_ “your.” - Page 306, last line, _for_ “comes” _read_ “come.” - - VOLUME III - - Page 31, last line, first word “Ha!” - Page 41, line 9 from bottom, _for_ “wing” _read_ “wings.” - Page 106, last line, first word “But.” - Page 136, line 13 from bottom, _for_ “in” _read_ “is.” - Page 163, line 4 from bottom, _before_ “must” insert “I.” - Page 204, first line, _for_ “Babe” _read_ “Babel.” - - VOLUME IV - - Page 68, line 2 from top, _after_ “Black” _read_ “it.” - Page 165, line 2 from bottom, _for_ “than” _read_ “that.” - Page 226, line 10 from top, _for_ “mus” _read_ “muss.” - Page 239, line 5 from top, _for_ “That” _read_ “That’s.” - - VOLUME VI - - Page 288, line 10 from bottom, _for_ “railways” _read_ “railway.” - - VOLUME VIII - - Page 9, line 6 from top, _for_ “it” _read_ “is.” - Page 125, line 14 from top, _for_ “doubt” _read_ “doubts.” - Page 227, line 2 from top, _after_ “us” _insert_ “is.” - Page 296, line 14 from bottom, _after_ “takes” _delete_ comma. - Page 366, line 10 from bottom, _after_ “getting” _insert_ “some.” - - VOLUME IX - - Page 170, line 14 from top, _for_ “waters” _read_ “water.” - Page 243, line 8 from top, _for_ “rises” _read_ “rise.” - - VOLUME X - - Page 81, line 2 from bottom, _after_ “if” _insert_ “I.” - Page 151, line 2 from top, _delete_ second “the.” - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - Transcriber’s Note - - The Notes that follow “Love’s Comedy” are indexed to page numbers - relative to the start of that play. Page 18, for instance, is - printed as page 304, and is the 18th page. The sole exception is the - final note, referenced to p. 160, which should be p. 168 according - to this scheme. The situation is moot in this text, as page numbers - are not preserved. - - Errors deemed most likely to be the printer’s have been corrected, - and are noted here. The references are to the page and line in the - original. The following issues should be noted, along with the - resolutions. - - 374.19 MISS JAY [(/[]_scoffing_.] Replaced. - 431.30 my steps ha[s/ve] led Replaced. - 465.3 _for_ “Thorold” _read_ “Thorolf[.”] Added. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COLLECTED WORKS OF HENRIK IBSEN, -VOL. 1 (OF 11) *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. 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} - div.box { border: 2px black solid; width: 80%; margin: auto; font-size: 90%; } - ins.correction { text-decoration:none; border-bottom: thin dotted gray; } - .quote { font-size: 95%; margin-top: 1.0em; margin-bottom: 1.0em; } - span.float-right { float: right; clear: both; } - div.direction { text-align: left; display: block; margin-top: 0.5em; - margin-left: 20%; } - .lg-container-l .linegroup { min-width: 100%; } - .linegroup .group { margin: 0em auto; } - div.direction { align-text: right; display: block; margin-top: 0.5em; - margin-left: auto; margin-right: 0; width: 90% } - .multiline { display: inline-block; vertical-align: middle; padding: 0; } - </style> - </head> - <body> - -<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 1 (of 11), by Henrik Ibsen</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 1 (of 11)</p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Henrik Ibsen</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Editor: William Archer</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: August 14, 2021 [eBook #66060]</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Emmanuel Ackerman, Sigal Alon, Eileen Gormly and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries)</div> - -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COLLECTED WORKS OF HENRIK IBSEN, VOL. 1 (OF 11) ***</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> -<div class='tnotes'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>Transcriber’s Note:</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c001'>Footnotes have been collected at the end of each section or act, -and are linked for ease of reference.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Minor errors, attributable to the printer, have been corrected. Please -see the transcriber’s <a href='#endnote'>note</a> at the end of this text -for details regarding the handling of any other textual issues encountered -during its preparation.</p> - -<p class='c001'>The front cover, which had only an embossed decoration, has been augmented -with information from the title page, and, as such, is added to the -public domain.</p> - -<div class='htmlonly'> - -<p class='c001'>Any corrections are indicated using an <ins class='correction' title='original'>underline</ins> -highlight. Placing the cursor over the correction will produce the -original text in a small popup.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/cover.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -</div> - -</div> -<div class='epubonly'> - -<p class='c001'>Any corrections are indicated as hyperlinks, which will navigate the -reader to the corresponding entry in the corrections table in the -note at the end of the text.</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF</div> - <div class='line in5'>HENRIK IBSEN</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='large'>VOLUME I</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='xlarge'>LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='xlarge'>THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='xlarge'>LOVE'S COMEDY</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> -<div class='box'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='large'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF</span></div> - <div><span class='xlarge'>HENRIK IBSEN</span></div> - <div class='c000'><i>Copyright Edition. Complete in 11 Volumes.</i></div> - <div><i>Crown 8vo, price 4s. each.</i></div> - <div class='c000'><b>ENTIRELY REVISED AND EDITED BY</b></div> - <div><b><span class='large'>WILLIAM ARCHER</span></b></div> - </div> -</div> - -<table class='table0' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='23%' /> -<col width='76%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. I.</td> - <td class='c004'>Lady Inger, The Feast at Solhoug, Love’s Comedy</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. II.</td> - <td class='c004'>The Vikings, The Pretenders</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. III.</td> - <td class='c004'>Brand</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. IV.</td> - <td class='c004'>Peer Gynt</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. V.</td> - <td class='c004'>Emperor and Galilean (2 parts)</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VI.</td> - <td class='c004'>The League of Youth, Pillars of Society</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VII.</td> - <td class='c004'>A Doll’s House, Ghosts</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VIII.</td> - <td class='c004'>An Enemy of the People, The Wild Duck</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. IX.</td> - <td class='c004'>Rosmersholm, The Lady from the Sea</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. X.</td> - <td class='c004'>Hedda Gabler, The Master Builder</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. XI.</td> - <td class='c004'>Little Eyolf, John Gabriel Borkman, When We Dead Awaken</td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>London</span>: <span class='large'>WILLIAM HEINEMANN</span></div> - <div>21 <span class='sc'>Bedford Street</span>, W.C.</div> - </div> -</div> - -</div> -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> - -<div> - <h1 class='c005' title='Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen: Volume 1'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF <br /> HENRIK IBSEN</h1> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Copyright Edition</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c006' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>VOLUME I</div> - <div class='c000'><span class='large'>LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='large'>THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='large'>LOVE'S COMEDY</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='small'>WITH INTRODUCTIONS BY</span></div> - <div class='c000'>WILLIAM ARCHER</div> - <div class='c000'><span class='small'>AND</span></div> - <div class='c000'>C. H. HERFORD, <span class='sc'>Litt.D.</span>, M.A.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c006' /> -<div class='figcenter id002'> -<img src='images/i_title_page.jpg' alt='title page' class='ig001' /> -</div> -<hr class='c006' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>LONDON</div> - <div>WILLIAM HEINEMANN</div> - <div>1910</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c007'> - <div><i>First printed (Collected Edition)</i> 1908</div> - <div><i>Second Impression</i> 1910</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c007'> - <div><i>Copyright</i> 1908 <i>by William Heinemann</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c008'>CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class='table1' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='83%' /> -<col width='16%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'> </td> - <td class='c009'><span class='small'>PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>General Preface</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_vii'>vii</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Introduction to “Lady Inger of Östråt”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_xvi'>xvii</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Introduction to “The Feast at Solhoug”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_xxxii'>xxxiii</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Introduction to “Love’s Comedy”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_xxxvi'>xxxvii</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>“Lady Inger of Östråt”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_1'>1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td class='c010' colspan='2'><i>Translated by</i> <span class='sc'>Charles Archer</span></td></tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>“The Feast at Solhoug”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_181'>181</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td class='c010' colspan='2'> <i>Translated by</i></td></tr> - <tr><td class='c010' colspan='2'> <span class='sc'>William Archer</span> and <span class='sc'>Mary Morison</span></td></tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>“Love’s Comedy”</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Page_285'>285</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td class='c010' colspan='2'> <i>Translated by</i> <span class='sc'>C. H. Herford</span></td></tr> -</table> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_vii'>vii</span> - <h2 class='c008'>GENERAL PREFACE</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>The eleven volumes of this edition contain all, -save one, of the dramas which Henrik Ibsen himself -admitted to the canon of his works. The -one exception is his earliest, and very immature, -tragedy, <cite>Catilina</cite>, first published in 1850, and republished -in 1875. This play is interesting in -the light reflected from the poet’s later achievements, -but has little or no inherent value. A -great part of its interest lies in the very crudities -of its style, which it would be a thankless task to -reproduce in translation. Moreover, the poet -impaired even its biographical value by largely -rewriting it before its republication. He did not -make it, or attempt to make it, a better play, but -he in some measure corrected its juvenility of -expression. Which version, then, should a translator -choose? To go back to the original would -seem a deliberate disregard of the poet’s wishes; -while, on the other hand, the retouched version -is clearly of far inferior interest. It seemed advisable, -therefore, to leave the play alone, so far -<span class='pageno' id='Page_viii'>viii</span>as this edition was concerned. Still more clearly -did it appear unnecessary to include <cite>The Warrior’s -Barrow</cite> and <cite>Olaf Liliekrans</cite>, two early plays which -were never admitted to any edition prepared by -the poet himself. They were included in a -Supplementary Volume of the Norwegian collected -edition, issued in 1902, when Ibsen’s life-work -was over. They have even less intrinsic -value than <cite>Catilina</cite>, and ought certainly to be -kept apart from the works by which he desired -to be remembered. A fourth youthful production, -<cite>St. John’s Night</cite>, remains to this day in manuscript. -Not even German piety has dragged it -to light.</p> - -<p class='c012'>With two exceptions, the plays appear in their -chronological order. The exceptions are <cite>Love’s -Comedy</cite>, which ought by rights to come between -<cite>The Vikings</cite> and <cite>The Pretenders</cite>, and <cite>Emperor and -Galilean</cite>, which ought to follow <cite>The League of -Youth</cite> instead of preceding it. The reasons of -convenience which prompted these departures -from the exact order are pretty obvious. It -seemed highly desirable to bring the two Saga -Plays, if I may so call them, into one volume; -while as for <cite>Emperor and Galilean</cite>, it could not -have been placed between <cite>The League of Youth</cite> -and <cite>Pillars of Society</cite> save by separating its two -parts, and assigning <cite>Caesar’s Apostasy</cite> to Volume V., -<cite>The Emperor Julian</cite> to Volume VI.</p> - -<p class='c012'>For the translations of all the plays in this -<span class='pageno' id='Page_ix'>ix</span>edition, except <cite>Love’s Comedy</cite> and <cite>Brand</cite>, I am -ultimately responsible, in the sense that I have -exercised an unrestricted right of revision. This -means, of course, that, in plays originally translated -by others, the merits of the English version -belong for the most part to the original translator, -while the faults may have been introduced, and -must have been sanctioned, by me. The revision, -whether fortunate or otherwise, has in all cases -been very thorough.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In their unrevised form, these translations have -met with a good deal of praise and with some -blame. I trust that the revision has rendered -them more praiseworthy, but I can scarcely hope -that it has met all the objections of those critics -who have found them blameworthy. For, in some -cases at any rate these objections proceeded from -theories of the translator’s function widely divergent -from my own—theories of which nothing, -probably, could disabuse the critic’s mind, save a -little experience of the difficulties of translating -(as distinct from adapting) dramatic prose. Ibsen -is at once extremely easy and extremely difficult -to translate. It is extremely easy, in his prose -plays, to realise his meaning; it is often extremely -difficult to convey it in natural, colloquial, and yet -not too colloquial, English. He is especially fond -of laying barbed-wire entanglements for the translator’s -feet, in the shape of recurrent phrases for -which it is absolutely impossible to find an equivalent -<span class='pageno' id='Page_x'>x</span>that will fit in all the different contexts. But -this is only one of many classes of obstacles which -encountered us on almost every page. I think, -indeed, that my collaborators and I may take it as -no small compliment that some of our critics have -apparently not realised the difficulties of our task, -or divined the laborious hours which have often -gone to the turning of a single phrase. And, in -not a few cases, the difficulties have proved sheer -impossibilities. I will cite only one instance. -Writing of <cite>The Master Builder</cite>, a very competent, -and indeed generous, critic finds in it “a curious -example of perhaps inevitable inadequacy.... -‘Duty! Duty! Duty!’ Hilda once exclaims in a -scornful outburst. ‘What a short, sharp, stinging -word!’ The epithets do not seem specially apt. -But in the original she cries out ‘Pligt! Pligt! -Pligt!’ and the very word stings and snaps.” I -submit that in this criticism there is one superfluous -word—to wit, the “perhaps” which qualifies “inevitable.” -For the term used by Hilda, and for the -idea in her mind, there is only one possible English -equivalent: “Duty.” The actress can speak it so as -more or less to justify Hilda’s feeling towards it; -and, for the rest, the audience must “piece out our -imperfections with their thoughts” and assume -that the Norwegian word has rather more of a -sting in its sound. It might be possible, no doubt, -to adapt Hilda’s phrase to the English word, and -say, “It sounds like the swish of a whip lash,” or -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xi'>xi</span>something to that effect. But this is a sort of -freedom which, rightly or wrongly, I hold inadmissible. -Once grant the right of adaptation, -even in small particulars, and it would be impossible -to say where it should stop. The versions -here presented (of the prose plays, at any rate) -are translations, not paraphrases. If we have ever -dropped into paraphrase, it is a dereliction of -principle; and I do not remember an instance. -For stage purposes, no doubt, a little paring of -rough edges is here and there allowable; but even -that, I think, should seldom go beyond the omission -of lines which manifestly lose their force in -translation, or are incomprehensible without a -footnote.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In the Introductions to previous editions I have -always confined myself to the statement of biographical -and historic facts, holding criticism no -part of my business. Now that Henrik Ibsen has -passed away, and his works have taken a practically -uncontested place in world-literature, this reticence -seemed no longer imposed upon me. I have consequently -made a few critical remarks on each -play, chiefly directed towards tracing the course -of the poet’s technical development. Nevertheless, -the Introductions are still mainly biographical, -and full advantage has been taken of the stores of -new information contained in Ibsen’s Letters, and -in the books and articles about him that have -appeared since his death. I have prefixed to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xii'>xii</span><cite>Lady Inger of Östråt</cite> a sketch of the poet’s life -down to the date of that play; so that the -Introductions, read in sequence, will be found -to form a pretty full record of a career which, -save for frequent changes of domicile, and -the issuing of play after play, was singularly -uneventful.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The Introductions to <cite>Loves Comedy</cite> and <cite>Brand</cite>, -as well as the translations, are entirely the work -of Professor Herford.</p> - -<p class='c012'>A point of typography perhaps deserves remark. -The Norwegian (and German) method of indicating -emphasis by spacing the letters of a word, -<em class='gesperrt'>thus</em>, has been adopted in this edition. It is -preferable for various reasons to the use of italics. -In dramatic work, for one thing, emphases have -sometimes to be indicated so frequently that the -peppering of the page with italics would produce -a very ugly effect. But a more important point is -this: the italic fount suggests a stronger emphasis -than the author, as a rule, intends. The spacing -of a word, especially if it be short, will often escape -the eye which does not look very closely; and -this is as it should be. Spacing, as Ibsen employs -it, does not generally indicate any obtrusive stress, -but is merely a guide to the reader in case a -doubt should arise in his mind as to which of two -words is intended to be the more emphatic. When -such a doubt occurs, the reader, by looking closely -at the text, will often find in the spacing an indication -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xiii'>xiii</span>which may at first have escaped him. In -almost all cases, a spaced word in the translation -represents a spaced word in the original. I -have very seldom used spacing to indicate an -emphasis peculiar to the English phraseology. -The system was first introduced in 1897, in the -translation of <cite>John Gabriel Borkman</cite>. It has no -longer even the disadvantage of unfamiliarity, -since it has been adopted by Mr. Bernard Shaw -in his printed plays, and, I believe, by other -dramatists.</p> - -<hr class='c013' /> - -<p class='c012'>Just thirty years have passed since I first put -pen to paper in a translation of Ibsen. In October -1877, <cite>Pillars of Society</cite> reached me hot from the -press; and, having devoured it, I dashed off a -translation of it in less than a week. It has since -cost me five or six times as much work in revision -as it originally did in translation. The manuscript -was punctually returned to me by more than one -publisher; and something like ten years elapsed -before it slowly dawned on me that the translating -and editing of Ibsen’s works was to be one of the -chief labours, as it has certainly been one of the -greatest privileges, of my life. Since 1887 or -thereabouts, not many months have passed in -which a considerable portion of my time has not -been devoted to acting, in one form or another, -as intermediary between Ibsen and the English-speaking -public. The larger part of the work, in -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xiv'>xiv</span>actual bulk, I have myself done; but I have had -invaluable aid from many quarters, and not merely -from those fellow workers who are named in -the following pages as the original translators -of certain of the plays. These “helpers and -servers,” as Solness would say, are too many to -be individually mentioned; but to all of them, -and chiefly to one who has devoted to the service -of Ibsen a good deal of the hard-won leisure of -Indian official life, I hereby convey my heartfelt -thanks.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The task is now ended. Though it has involved -not a little sheer drudgery, it has, on the whole, -been of absorbing interest. And I should have -been ungrateful indeed had I shrunk from drudgery -in the cause of an author who had meant so -much to me. I have experienced no other literary -emotion at all comparable to the eagerness with -which, ever since 1877, I awaited each new play -of Ibsen’s, or the excitement with which I tore -off the wrapper of the postal packets in which the -little paper-covered books arrived from Copenhagen. -People who are old enough to remember -the appearance of the monthly parts of <cite>David -Copperfield</cite> or <cite>Pendennis</cite> may have some inkling -of my sensations; but they were all the intenser -as they recurred at intervals, not of one month, -but of two years. And it was not Ibsen the -man of ideas or doctrines that meant so much -to me; it was Ibsen the pure poet, the creator -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xv'>xv</span>of men and women, the searcher of hearts, -the weaver of strange webs of destiny. I can -only trust that, by diligence in seeking for the -best interpretation of his thoughts, I have paid -some part of my debt to that great spirit, and to -the glorious country that gave him birth.</p> - -<div class='c014'><span class='sc'>William Archer.</span></div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_xvi'>xvi</span> - <h2 class='c008'>LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>INTRODUCTION</h3> - -<p class='c011'>Henrik Johan Ibsen was born on March 20, 1828, -at the little seaport of Skien, situated at the head of a -long fiord on the south coast of Norway. His great-great-grandfather -was a Dane who settled in Bergen -about 1720. His great-grandmother, Wenche Dischington, -was the daughter of a Scotchman, who had -settled and become naturalised in Norway; and Ibsen -himself was inclined to ascribe some of his characteristics -to the Scottish strain in his blood. Both his -grandmother (Plesner by name) and his mother, Maria -Cornelia Altenburg, were of German descent. It has -been said that there was not a drop of Norwegian blood -in Ibsen’s composition; but it is doubtful whether -this statement can be substantiated. Most of his male -ancestors were sailors; but his father, Knud Ibsen, -was a merchant. When Henrik (his first child) was -born, he seems to have been prosperous, and to have -led a very social and perhaps rather extravagant life. -But when the poet was eight years old financial -disaster overtook the family, and they had to withdraw -to a comparatively small farmhouse on the -outskirts of the little town, where they lived in -poverty and retirement.</p> - -<p class='c012'><span class='pageno' id='Page_xvii'>xvii</span>As a boy, Ibsen appears to have been lacking in -animal spirits and the ordinary childish taste for -games. Our chief glimpses of his home life are due -to his sister Hedvig, the only one of his family with -whom, in after years, he maintained any intercourse, -and whose name he gave to one of his most beautiful -creations.<a id='r1' /><a href='#f1' class='c016'><sup>[1]</sup></a> She relates that the only out-door amusement -he cared for was “building”—in what material -does not appear. Among indoor diversions, that to -which he was most addicted was conjuring, a younger -brother serving as his confederate. We also hear of -his cutting out fantastically-dressed figures in pasteboard, -attaching them to wooden blocks, and ranging -them in groups or tableaux. He may be said, in short, -to have had a toy theatre without the stage. In all -these amusements it is possible, with a little goodwill, -to divine the coming dramatist—the constructive -faculty, the taste for technical legerdemain (which -made him in his youth so apt a disciple of Scribe), -and the fundamental passion for manipulating fictitious -characters. The education he received was of the -most ordinary, but included a little Latin. The subjects -which chiefly interested him were history and -religion. He showed no special literary proclivities, -though a dream which he narrated in a school composition -so impressed his master that he accused him -(much to the boy’s indignation) of having copied it -out of some book.</p> - -<p class='c012'>His chief taste was for drawing, and he was anxious -to become an artist; but his father could not afford -to pay for his training.<a id='r2' /><a href='#f2' class='c016'><sup>[2]</sup></a> At the age of fifteen, therefore, -he had to set about earning his living, and was -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xviii'>xviii</span>apprenticed to an apothecary in Grimstad, a town on -the south-west coast of Norway, between Arendal and -Christianssand. He was here in even narrower social -surroundings than at Skien. His birthplace numbered -some 3000 inhabitants, Grimstad about 800. That he -was contented with his lot cannot be supposed; and -the short, dark, taciturn youth seems to have made an -unsympathetic and rather uncanny impression upon -the burghers of the little township. His popularity -was not heightened by a talent which he presently -developed for drawing caricatures and writing personal -lampoons. He found, however, two admiring friends -in Christopher Lorentz Due, a custom-house clerk, -and a law student named Olë Schulerud.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The first political event which aroused his interest -and stirred him to literary expression was the French -Revolution of 1848. He himself writes:<a id='r3' /><a href='#f3' class='c016'><sup>[3]</sup></a> “The times -were much disturbed. The February revolution, the -rising in Hungary and elsewhere, the Slesvig War—all -this had a strong and ripening effect on my development, -immature though it remained both then and -long afterwards. I wrote clangorous poems of encouragement -to the Magyars, adjuring them, for the -sake of freedom and humanity, not to falter in their -righteous war against ‘the tyrants’; and I composed -a long series of sonnets to King Oscar, mainly, so far -as I remember, urging him to set aside all petty -considerations, and march without delay, at the head -of his army, to the assistance of our Danish brothers -on the Slesvig frontier.” These effusions remained -in manuscript, and have, for the most part, perished. -About the same time he was reading for his matriculation -examination at Christiania University, where -he proposed to study medicine; and it happened that -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xix'>xix</span>the Latin books prescribed were Sallust’s <cite>Catiline</cite> and -Cicero’s Catilinarian Orations. “I devoured these -documents,” says Ibsen, “and a few months later my -drama [<cite>Catilina</cite>] was finished.” His friend Schulerud -took it to Christiania, to offer it to the theatre and to -the publishers. By both it was declined. Schulerud, -however, had it printed at his own expense; and soon -after its appearance, in the early spring of 1850, Ibsen -himself came to Christiania.<a id='r4' /><a href='#f4' class='c016'><sup>[4]</sup></a></p> - -<p class='c012'>For the most part written in blank verse, <cite>Catilina</cite> -towards the close breaks into rhyming trochaic lines -of thirteen and fifteen syllables. It is an extremely -youthful production, very interesting from the biographical -point of view, but of small substantive -merit. What is chiefly notable in it, perhaps, is the -fact that it already shows Ibsen occupied with the -theme which was to run through so many of his works—the -contrast between two types of womanhood, one -strong and resolute, even to criminality, the other -comparatively weak, clinging, and “feminine” in the -conventional sense of the word.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In Christiania Ibsen shared Schulerud’s lodgings, -and his poverty. There is a significant sentence in -his preface to the re-written <cite>Catilina</cite>, in which he tells -how the bulk of the first edition was sold as waste -paper, and adds: “In the days immediately following -we lacked none of the first necessities of life.” He -went to a “student-factory,” or, as we should say, a -“crammer’s,” managed by one Heltberg; and there he -fell in with several of the leading spirits of his generation—notably -with Björnson, A. O. Vinje, and Jonas -Lie. In the early summer of 1850 he wrote a one-act -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xx'>xx</span>play, <span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Kiæmpehöien</cite></span> (<cite>The Warrior’s Barrow</cite>), entirely -in the sentimental and somewhat verbose manner of -the Danish poet Oehlenschläger. It was accepted by -the Christiania Theatre, and performed three times, -but cannot have put much money in the poet’s purse. -With Paul Botten-Hansen and A. O. Vinje he co-operated -in the production of a weekly satirical paper, at -first entitled <span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Manden</cite></span> (<cite>The Man</cite>), but afterwards -<span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Andhrimner</cite></span>, after the cook of the gods in Valhalla. -To this journal, which lasted only from January to -September 1851, he contributed, among other things, -a satirical “music-tragedy,” entitled <cite>Norma, or a -Politician’s Love</cite>. As the circulation of the paper -is said to have been something under a hundred, it -cannot have paid its contributors very lavishly. About -this time, too, he narrowly escaped arrest on account -of some political agitation, in which, however, he had -not been very deeply concerned.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Meanwhile a movement had been going forward in -the capital of Western Norway, Bergen, which was to -have a determining influence on Ibsen’s destinies.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Up to 1850 there had been practically no Norwegian -drama. The two great poets of the first half of the -century, Wergeland and Welhaven, had nothing dramatic -in their composition, though Wergeland more -than once essayed the dramatic form. Danish actors -and Danish plays held entire possession of the Christiania -Theatre; and, though amateur performances -were not uncommon in provincial towns, it was generally -held that the Norwegians, as a nation, were -devoid of all talent for acting. The very sound of -Norwegian (as distinct from Danish) was held by -Norwegians themselves to be ridiculous on the stage. -Fortunately Olë Bull, the great violinist, was not of -that opinion. With the insight of genius, he saw that -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxi'>xxi</span>the time had come for the development of a national -drama; he set forth this view in a masterly argument -addressed to the Storthing; and he gave practical -effect to it by establishing, at his own risk, a Norwegian -Theatre in Bergen. How rightly he had -judged the situation may be estimated from the fact -that among the raw lads who first presented themselves -for employment was Johannes Brun, afterwards -one of the greatest of comedians; while the first -“theatre-poet” engaged by the management was none -other than Henrik Ibsen.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The theatre was opened on January 2, 1850; Ibsen -entered upon his duties (at a salary of less than £70 a -year) in November 1851.<a id='r5' /><a href='#f5' class='c016'><sup>[5]</sup></a></p> - -<p class='c012'>Incredibly, pathetically small, according to our -ideas, were the material resources of Bull’s gallant -enterprise. The town of Bergen numbered only -25,000 inhabitants. Performances were given only -twice, or, at the outside, three times, a week; and the -highest price of admission was two shillings. What -can have been attempted in the way of scenery and -costumes it is hard to imagine. Of a three-act play, -produced in 1852, we read that “the mounting, which -cost £22 10s., left nothing to be desired.”</p> - -<p class='c012'>Ibsen’s connection with the Bergen Theatre lasted -from November 6, 1851, until the summer of 1857—that -is to say, from his twenty-fourth to his thirtieth -year. He was engaged in the first instance “to assist -the theatre as dramatic author,” but in the following -year he received from the management a “travelling -stipend” of £45 to enable him to study the art of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxii'>xxii</span>theatrical production in Denmark and Germany, with -the stipulation that, on his return, he should undertake -the duties of “scene instructor”—that is to say, -stage-manager or producer. In this function he seems -to have been—as, indeed, he always was—extremely -conscientious. A book exists in the Bergen Public -Library containing (it is said) careful designs by him -for every scene in the plays he produced, and full -notes as to entrances, exits, groupings, costumes, accessories, -&c. But he was not an animating or inspiring -producer. He had none of the histrionic vividness of -his successor in the post, Björnstjerne Björnson, who, -like all great producers, could not only tell the actors -what to do, but show them how to do it. Perhaps it -was a sense of his lack of impulse that induced the -management to give him a colleague, one Herman -Låding, with whom his relations were none of the -happiest. Ibsen is even said, on one occasion, to have -challenged Låding to a duel.</p> - -<p class='c012'>One of the duties of the “theatre-poet” was to -have a new play ready for each recurrence of the -“Foundation Day” of the theatre, January 2. On -that date, in 1853, Ibsen produced a romantic comedy, -<cite>St. John’s Night</cite>. This is the only one of his plays -that has never been printed. From the accounts of -those who have seen the manuscript, it would appear -to be a strange jumble of fantastic fairy-lore with -modern comedy or melodrama. Perhaps it is not quite -fanciful to regard it as a sort of half-way house between -<cite>A Midsummer Night’s Dream</cite> and <cite>Peer Gynt</cite>. -In one of its scenes there appears to be an unmistakable -foreshadowing of the episode in the Troll-King’s -palace (<cite>Peer Gynt</cite>, Act II., Sc. 6). The play -had no success, and was performed only twice. For -the next Foundation Day, January 2, 1854, Ibsen -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxiii'>xxiii</span>prepared a revised version of <cite>The Warrior’s Barrow</cite>, -already produced in Christiania. A year later, -January 2, 1855, <cite>Lady Inger of Östråt</cite> was produced—a -work still immature, indeed, but giving, for -the first time, no uncertain promise of the master -dramatist to come.</p> - -<p class='c017'>In an autobiographical letter to the Danish critic -Peter Hansen, written from Dresden in 1870, Ibsen -says: “<cite>Lady Inger of Östråt</cite> is the result of a love-affair—hastily -entered into and violently broken off—to -which several of my minor poems may also be -attributed, such as <cite>Wild-flowers and Pot-plants</cite>, <cite>A -Bird-Song</cite>, &c.” The heroine of this love-affair can -now be identified as a lady named Henrikke Holst, -who seems to have preserved through a long life the -fresh, bright spirit, the overflowing joyousness, which -attracted Ibsen when she was only in her seventeenth -year. Their relation was of the most innocent. It -went no further than a few surreptitious rambles in -the romantic surroundings of Bergen, usually with a -somewhat older girl to play propriety, and with a bag -of sugar-plums to fill up pauses in the conversation. -The “violent” ending seems to have come when the -young lady’s father discovered the secret of these excursions, -and doubtless placed her under more careful -control. What there was in this episode to suggest, -or in any way influence, <cite>Lady Inger</cite>, I cannot understand. -Nevertheless the identification seems quite -certain. The affair had a charming little sequel. -During the days of their love’s young dream, Ibsen -treated the “wild-flower” with a sort of shy and -distant chivalry at which the wood-gods must have -smiled. He avoided even touching her hand, and -always addressed her by the “De” (you) of formal -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxiv'>xxiv</span>politeness. But when they met again after many -years, he a famous poet and she a middle-aged matron, -he instinctively adopted the “Du” (thou) of affectionate -intimacy, and she responded in kind. He asked -her whether she had recognised herself in any of his -works, and she replied: “I really don’t know, unless -it be in the parson’s wife in <cite>Love’s Comedy</cite>, with her -eight children and her perpetual knitting.” “Ibsen -protested,” says Herr Paulsen, in whose <span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Samliv -med Ibsen</cite></span> a full account of the episode may be read. -It is interesting to note that the lady did not -recognise herself in Eline Gyldenlöve, any more than -we can.</p> - -<p class='c012'>It must have been less than a year after the production -of <cite>Lady Inger</cite> that Ibsen made the acquaintance -of the lady who was to be his wife. -Susanna Dåe Thoresen was a daughter (by his second -marriage) of Provost<a id='r6' /><a href='#f6' class='c016'><sup>[6]</sup></a> Thoresen, of Bergen, whose -third wife, Magdalene Krag, afterwards became an -authoress of some celebrity. It is recorded that -Ibsen’s first visit to the Thoresen household took -place on January 7, 1856,<a id='r7' /><a href='#f7' class='c016'><sup>[7]</sup></a> and that on that occasion, -speaking to Susanna Thoresen, he was suddenly moved -to say to her: “You are now Elina, but in time you -will become Lady Inger.” Twenty years later, at -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxv'>xxv</span>Christmas 1876, he gave his wife a copy of the German -translation of <cite>Lady Inger</cite>, with the following inscription -on the fly-leaf:</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“This book is by right indefeasible thine,</div> - <div class='line'>Who in spirit art born of the Östråt line.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c017'>In <cite>Lady Inger</cite> Ibsen has chosen a theme from the -very darkest hour of Norwegian history. King -Sverre’s democratic monarchy, dating from the beginning -of the thirteenth century, had paralysed the -old Norwegian nobility. One by one the great families -died out, their possessions being concentrated in the -hands of the few survivors, who regarded their wealth -as a privilege unhampered by obligations. At the -beginning of the sixteenth century, then, patriotism -and public spirit were almost dead among the nobles, -while the monarchy, before which the old aristocracy -had fallen, was itself dead, or rather merged (since -1380) in the Crown of Denmark. The peasantry, too, -had long ago lost all effective voice in political affairs; -so that Norway lay prone and inert at the mercy of -her Danish rulers. It is at the moment of deepest -national degradation that Ibsen has placed his tragedy; -and the degradation was, in fact, even deeper than he -represents it, for the longings for freedom, the stirrings -of revolt, which form the motive-power of the -action, are invented, or at any rate idealised, by the -poet. Fru Inger Ottisdatter Gyldenlöve was, in fact, -the greatest personage of her day in Norway. She -was the best-born, the wealthiest, and probably the -ablest woman in the land. At the time when Ibsen -wrote, little more than this seems to have been -known of her; so that in making her the victim of -a struggle between patriotic duty and maternal love, -he was perhaps poetising in the absence of positive -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxvi'>xxvi</span>evidence, rather than in opposition to it. Subsequent -research, unfortunately, has shown that Fru Inger -was but little troubled with patriotic aspirations. -She was a hard and grasping woman, ambitious of -social power and predominance, but inaccessible, or -nearly so, to national feeling. It was from sheer -social ambition, and with no qualms of patriotic conscience, -that she married her daughters to Danish -noblemen. True, she lent some support to the insurrection -of the so-called “Dale-junker,” a peasant -who gave himself out as the heir of Sten Sture, a -former regent of Sweden; but there is not a tittle of -ground for making this pretender her son. He might, -indeed, have become her son-in-law, for, speculating -on his chances of success, she had betrothed one of -her daughters to him. Thus the Fru Inger of Ibsen’s -play is, in her character and circumstances, as much a -creation of the poet’s as though no historic personage -of that name had ever existed. Olaf Skaktavl, Nils -Lykke, and Eline Gyldenlöve are also historic names; -but with them, too, Ibsen has dealt with the utmost -freedom. The real Nils Lykke was married in -1528 to the real Eline Gyldenlöve. She died four -years later, leaving him two children; and thereupon -he would fain have married her sister Lucia. Such -a union, however, was regarded as incestuous, and -the lovers failed in their effort to obtain a special -dispensation. Lucia then became her brother-in-law’s -mistress, and bore him a son. But the ecclesiastical -law was in those days not to be trifled with; Nils -Lykke was thrown into prison for his crime, condemned, -and killed in his dungeon, in the year of -grace 1535. Thus there was a tragedy ready-made in -Ibsen’s material, though it was not the tragedy he -chose to write.</p> - -<p class='c012'><span class='pageno' id='Page_xxvii'>xxvii</span>The Bergen public did not greatly take to <cite>Lady -Inger</cite>, and it was performed, in its novelty, only twice. -Nor is the reason far to seek. The extreme complexity -of the intrigue, and the lack of clear guidance -through its mazes, probably left the Bergen audiences -no less puzzled than the London audiences who saw -the play at the Scala Theatre in 1906.<a id='r8' /><a href='#f8' class='c016'><sup>[8]</sup></a> It is a play -which can be appreciated only by spectators who know -it beforehand. Such audiences it has often found in -Norway, where it was revived at the Christiania -Theatre in 1875; but in Denmark and Germany, -though it has been produced several times, it has -never been very successful. We need go no further -than the end of the first act to understand the reason. -On an audience which knows nothing of the play, the -sudden appearance of a “Stranger,” to whose identity -it has not the slightest clue, can produce no effect -save one of bewilderment. To rely on such an incident -for what was evidently intended to be a thrilling -“curtain,” was to betray extreme inexperience; and -this single trait is typical of much in the play. Nevertheless -<cite>Lady Inger</cite> marks a decisive advance in Ibsen’s -development. It marks, one may say, the birth of his -power of invention. He did not as yet know how to -restrain or clarify his invention, and he made clumsy -use of the stock devices of a bad school. But he -had once for all entered upon that course of technical -training which it took him five-and-twenty years to -complete. He was learning much that he was afterwards -to unlearn; but had he not undergone this -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxviii'>xxviii</span>apprenticeship, he would never have been the master -he ultimately became.</p> - -<p class='c012'>When Ibsen entered upon his duties at the Bergen -Theatre, the influence of Eugène Scribe and his -imitators was at its very height. Of the 145 -plays produced during his tenure of office, more -than half (seventy-five) were French, twenty-one -being by Scribe himself, and at least half the remainder -by adepts of his school, Bayard, Dumanoir, Mélesville, -&c. It is to this school that Ibsen, in <cite>Lady -Inger</cite>, proclaims his adherence; and he did not finally -shake off its influence until he wrote the Third Act of -<cite>A Doll’s House</cite> in 1879. Although the romantic -environment of the play, and the tragic intensity of -the leading character, tend to disguise the relationship, -there can be no doubt that <cite>Lady Inger</cite> is, in essence, -simply a French drama of intrigue, constructed after -the method of Scribe, as exemplified in <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Adrienne -Lecouvreur</cite></span>, <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Les Contes de la Reine de Navarre</cite></span>,<a id='r9' /><a href='#f9' class='c016'><sup>[9]</sup></a> and a -dozen other French plays, with the staging of which -the poet was then occupied. It might seem that the -figure of Elina, brooding over the thought of her dead -sister, coffined in the vault below the banqueting-hall, -belonged rather to German romanticism; but there -are plenty of traces of German romanticism even in -the French plays with which the good people of -Bergen were regaled. For the suggestion of grave-vaults -and coffined heroines, for example, Ibsen need -have gone no further than Dumas’s <cite>Catherine Howard</cite>, -which he produced in March 1853. I do not, however, -pretend that his romantic colouring came to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxix'>xxix</span>him from France. It came to him, doubtless, from -Germany, by way of Denmark. My point is that the -conduct of the intrigue in <cite>Lady Inger</cite> shows the most -unmistakable marks of his study of the great French -plot-manipulators. Its dexterity and its artificiality -alike are neither German nor Danish, but French. -Ibsen had learnt the great secret of Scribe—the secret -of dramatic movement. The play is full of those -ingenious complications, mistakes of identity, and -rapid turns of fortune by which Scribe enchained -the interest of his audiences. Its central theme—a -mother plunging into intrigue and crime for -the advancement of her son, only to find that her -son himself has been her victim—is as old as -Greek tragedy. The secondary story, too—that of -Elina’s wild infatuation for the betrayer and practically -the murderer of her sister—could probably -be paralleled in the ballad literature of Scotland, -Germany, or Denmark, and might, indeed, have -been told, in verse or prose, by Sir Walter Scott. -But these very un-Parisian elements are handled -in a fundamentally Parisian fashion, and Ibsen is -clearly fascinated, for the time, by the ideal of -what was afterwards to be known as the “well-made -play.” The fact that the result is in reality -an ill-made play in no way invalidates this theory. -It is perhaps the final condemnation of the well-made -play that in nine cases out of ten—and even -in the hands of far more experienced playwrights -than the young Bergen “theatre-poet”—it is apt to -prove ill-made after all.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Far be it from me, however, to speak in pure -disparagement of <cite>Lady Inger</cite>. With all its defects, -it seems to me manifestly the work of a great -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxx'>xxx</span>poet—the only one of Ibsen’s plays prior to <cite>The -Vikings at Helgeland</cite> of which this can be said. -It may be that early impressions mislead me; but -I still cannot help seeing in Lady Inger a figure of -truly tragic grandeur; in Nils Lykke one of the -few really seductive seducers in literature; and in -many passages of the dialogue, the touch of a master -hand.</p> - -<div class='c014'>W. A.</div> - -<hr class='c019' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f1'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r1'>1</a>. See Introduction to <cite>The Wild Duck</cite>, p. xxiii.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f2'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r2'>2</a>. He continued to dabble in painting until he was thirty, or -thereabouts.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f3'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r3'>3</a>. Preface to the second edition of <cite>Catilina</cite>, 1875.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f4'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r4'>4</a>. This is his own statement of the order of events. According -to Halvdan Koht (<cite>Samlede Værker</cite>, vol. x. p. i) he arrived in -Christiania in March 1850, and <cite>Catilina</cite> did not appear until -April.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f5'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r5'>5</a>. The history of Ibsen’s connection with the Bergen Theatre -is written at some length in an article by me, entitled “Ibsen’s -Apprenticeship,” published in the <cite>Fortnightly Review</cite> for January -1904. From that article I quote freely in the following pages.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f6'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r6'>6</a>. Provost (“Provst”) is an ecclesiastical title, roughly equivalent -to Dean.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f7'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r7'>7</a>. See article by Dr. Julius Elias in <span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Die neue Rundschau</cite></span>, -December 1906, p. 1463. Dr. Brahm, in the same magazine -(p. 1414), writes as though this were Ibsen’s first meeting with -his wife; and a note by Halvdan Koht, in the Norwegian -edition of Ibsen’s Letters, seems to bear out this view. But it -would appear that what Fru Ibsen told Dr. Elias was that on -the date mentioned Ibsen for “the first time visited at her -father’s house.” The terms of the anecdote almost compel us -to assume that he had previously met her elsewhere. It seems -almost inconceivable that Ibsen, of all people, should have made -such a speech to a lady on their very first meeting.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f8'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r8'>8</a>. Stage Society performances, January 28 and 29, 1906. -Lady Inger was played by Miss Edyth Olive, Elina by Miss -Alice Crawford, Nils Lykke by Mr. Henry Ainley, Olaf Skaktavl -by Mr. Alfred Brydone, and Nils Stenssön by Mr. Harcourt -Williams.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f9'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r9'>9</a>. These two plays were produced, respectively, in March and -October 1854, at the very time when Ibsen must have been -planning and composing <cite>Lady Inger</cite>.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxii'>xxxii</span> - <h2 class='c008'>THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>INTRODUCTION</h3> - -<p class='c011'>Exactly a year after the production of <cite>Lady Inger of -Östråt</cite>—that is to say on the “Foundation Day” of -the Bergen Theatre, January 2, 1856—<cite>The Feast at -Solhoug</cite> was produced. The poet himself has written -its history in full in the Preface to the second edition -(see p. <a href='#Page_183'>183</a>). The only comment that need be made -upon his rejoinder to his critics has been made, with -perfect fairness as it seems to me, by George Brandes -in the following passage:<a id='r10' /><a href='#f10' class='c016'><sup>[10]</sup></a> “No one who is unacquainted -with the Scandinavian languages can fully -understand the charm that the style and melody of -the old ballads exercise upon the Scandinavian mind. -The beautiful ballads and songs of <span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Des Knaben Wunderhorn</cite></span> -have perhaps had a similar power over German -minds; but, as far as I am aware, no German poet -has ever succeeded in inventing a metre suitable for -dramatic purposes, which yet retained the mediæval -ballad’s sonorous swing and rich aroma. The explanation -of the powerful impression produced in its -day by Henrik Hertz’s <cite>Svend Dyring’s House</cite> is to be -found in the fact that in it, for the first time, the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxiii'>xxxiii</span>problem was solved of how to fashion a metre akin to -that of the heroic ballads, a metre possessing as great -mobility as the verse of the <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Niebelungenlied</cite></span>, along with -a dramatic value not inferior to that of the iambic -pentameter. Henrik Ibsen, it is true, has justly -pointed out that, as regards the mutual relations of -the principal characters, <cite>Svend Dyring’s House</cite> owes -more to Kleist’s <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Käthchen von Heilbronn</cite></span> than <cite>The -Feast at Solhoug</cite> owes to <cite>Svend Dyring’s House</cite>. But -the fact remains that the versified parts of the dialogue -of both <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> and <cite>Olaf Liliekrans</cite> are -written in that imitation of the tone and style of the -heroic ballad, of which Hertz was the happily-inspired -originator. There seems to me to be no depreciation -whatever of Ibsen in the assertion of Hertz’s right to -rank as his model. Even the greatest must have learnt -from some one.”</p> - -<p class='c012'>The question is, to put it in a nutshell: Supposing -Hertz had never adapted the ballad measures to dramatic -purposes, would Ibsen have written <cite>The Feast -at Solhoug</cite>, at any rate in its present form? I think -we must answer: Almost certainly, no.</p> - -<p class='c012'>But while the influence of Danish lyrical romanticism -is apparent in the style of the play, the structure, -as it seems to me, shows no less clearly that influence -of the French plot-manipulators which we found so -unmistakably at work in <cite>Lady Inger</cite>. Despite its -lyrical dialogue, <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> has that crispness -of dramatic action which marks the French plays -of the period. It may indeed be called Scribe’s -<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Bataille de Dames</cite></span> writ tragic. Here, as in the <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Bataille -de Dames</cite></span> (one of the earliest plays produced under -Ibsen’s supervision), we have the rivalry of an older -and a younger woman for the love of a man who is -proscribed on an unjust accusation, and pursued by -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxiv'>xxxiv</span>the emissaries of the royal power. One might even, -though this would be forcing the point, find an analogy -in the fact that the elder woman (in both plays a -strong and determined character) has in Scribe’s comedy -a cowardly suitor, while in Ibsen’s tragedy, or melodrama, -she has a cowardly husband. In every other -respect the plays are as dissimilar as possible; yet it -seems to me far from unlikely that an unconscious -reminiscence of the <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><cite>Bataille de Dames</cite></span> may have contributed -to the shaping of <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> in -Ibsen’s mind. But more significant than any resemblance -of theme is the similarity of Ibsen’s whole -method to that of the French school—the way, for -instance, in which misunderstandings are kept up -through a careful avoidance of the use of proper names, -and the way in which a cup of poison, prepared for -one person, comes into the hands of another person, -is, as a matter of fact, drunk by no one, but occasions -the acutest agony to the would-be poisoner. All this -ingenious dovetailing of incidents and working-up of -misunderstandings, Ibsen unquestionably learned from -the French. The French language, indeed, is the only -one which has a word—<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>quiproquo</i></span>—to indicate the class -of misunderstanding which, from <cite>Lady Inger</cite> down to -<cite>The League of Youth</cite>, Ibsen employed without scruple.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Ibsen’s first visit to the home of his future wife took -place five days after the production of <cite>The Feast at -Solhoug</cite>. It seems doubtful whether this was actually -his first meeting with her;<a id='r11' /><a href='#f11' class='c016'><sup>[11]</sup></a> but at any rate we can -scarcely suppose that he knew her during the previous -summer, when he was writing his play. It is a curious -coincidence, then, that he should have found in -Susanna Thoresen and her sister Marie very much the -same contrast of characters which had occupied him in -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxv'>xxxv</span>his first dramatic effort, <cite>Catilina</cite>, and which had formed -the main subject of the play he had just produced. -It is less wonderful that the same contrast should so -often recur in his later works, even down to <cite>John -Gabriel Borkman</cite>. Ibsen was greatly attached to his -gentle and retiring sister-in-law, who died unmarried -in 1874.</p> - -<p class='c017'><cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> has been translated by Miss -Morison and myself, only because no one else could be -found to undertake the task. We have done our best; -but neither of us lays claim to any great metrical skill, -and the light movement of Ibsen’s verse is often, if -not always, rendered in a sadly halting fashion. It is, -however, impossible to exaggerate the irregularity of -the verse in the original, or its defiance of strict metrical -law. The normal line is one of four accents; but -when this is said, it is almost impossible to arrive at -any further generalisation. There is a certain lilting -melody in many passages, and the whole play has not -unfairly been said to possess the charm of a northern -summer night, in which the glimmer of twilight gives -place only to the gleam of morning. But in the main -(though much better than its successor, <cite>Olaf Liliekrans</cite>) -it is the weakest thing that Ibsen admitted into -the canon of his works. He wrote of it in 1870 as “a -study which I now disown”; and had he continued in -that frame of mind, the world would scarcely have -quarrelled with his judgment. At worst, then, my -collaborator and I cannot be accused of marring a -masterpiece; but for which assurance we should probably -have shrunk from the attempt.</p> - -<div class='c014'>W. A.</div> -<hr class='c019' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f10'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r10'>10</a>. <cite>Ibsen and Björnson.</cite> London, Heinemann, 1899, p. 88.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f11'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r11'>11</a>. See <a href='#f6'>note</a>, p. xxv.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxvi'>xxxvi</span> - <h2 class='c008'>LOVE'S COMEDY</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>INTRODUCTION</h3> - -<p class='c011'><span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Kærlighedens Komedie</cite></span> was published at Christiania -in 1862. The polite world—so far as such a thing -existed at that time in the Northern capital—received -it with an outburst of indignation not now entirely -easy to understand. It has indeed faults enough. The -character-drawing is often crude, the action, though -full of effective by-play, extremely slight, and the -sensational climax has little relation to human nature -as exhibited in Norway, or out of it, at that or any -other time. But the sting lay in the unflattering -veracity of the piece as a whole; in the merciless -portrayal of the trivialities of persons, or classes, -high in their own esteem; in the unexampled effrontery -of bringing a clergyman upon the stage. All -these have long since passed in Scandinavia, into the -category of the things which people take with their -Ibsen as a matter of course, and the play is welcomed -with delight by every Scandinavian audience. But -in 1862 the matter was serious, and Ibsen meant it to -be so.</p> - -<p class='c012'>For they were years of ferment—those six or seven -which intervened between his return to Christiania -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxvii'>xxxvii</span>from Bergen in 1857, and his departure for Italy in -1864. As director of the newly founded “Norwegian -Theatre,” Ibsen was a prominent member of the little -knot of brilliant young writers who led the nationalist -revolt against Danish literary tradition, then still -dominant in well-to-do, and especially in official, -Christiania. Well-to-do and official Christiania met -the revolt with contempt. Under such conditions, -the specific literary battle of the Norwegian with the -Dane easily developed into the eternal warfare of -youthful idealism with “respectability” and convention. -Ibsen had already started work upon the greatest -of his Norse Histories—<cite>The Pretenders</cite>. But history -was for him little more than material for the illustration -of modern problems; and he turned with zest -from the task of breathing his own spirit into the -stubborn mould of the thirteenth century, to hold up -the satiric mirror to the suburban drawing-rooms of -Christiania, and to the varied phenomena current -there,—and in suburban drawing-rooms elsewhere,—under -the name of Love.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Yet <cite>Love’s Comedy</cite> is much more than a satire, and -its exuberant humour has a bitter core; the laughter -that rings through it is the harsh, implacable laughter -of Carlyle. His criticism of commonplace love-making -is at first sight harmless and ordinary enough. -The ceremonial formalities of the continental <cite>Verlobung</cite>, -the shrill raptures of aunts and cousins over the -engaged pair, the satisfied smile of enterprising materfamilias -as she reckons up the tale of daughters or of -nieces safely married off under her auspices; or, -again, the embarrassments incident to a prolonged -<cite>Brautstand</cite> following a hasty wooing, the deadly effect -of familiarity upon a shallow affection, and the anxious -efforts to save the appearance of romance when its -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxviii'>xxxviii</span>zest has departed—all these things had yielded such -“comedy” as they possess to many others before Ibsen, -and an Ibsen was not needed to evoke it. But if we -ask what, then, is the right way from which these -“comic” personages in their several fashions diverge; -what is the condition which will secure courtship -from ridicule, and marriage from disillusion, Ibsen -abruptly parts company with all his predecessors. -“‘Of course,’ reply the rest in chorus, ‘a deep and -sincere love’;—‘together,’ add some, 'with prudent -good sense.'” The prudent good sense Ibsen allows; -but he couples with it the startling paradox that the -first condition of a happy marriage is the absence of -love, and the first condition of an enduring love the -absence of marriage.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The student of the latter-day Ibsen is naturally -somewhat taken aback to find the grim poet of -Doubt, whose task it seems to be to apply a corrosive -criticism to modern institutions in general and -to marriage in particular, gravely defending the -“marriage of convenience.” And his amazement -is not diminished by the sense that the author of -this plea for the loveless marriage, which poets -have at all times scorned and derided, was himself -beyond question a poet, ardent, brilliant, and -young, and himself, what is more, quite recently -and beyond question happily, married. The truth -is that there are two men—in Ibsen an idealist, -exalted to the verge of sentimentality, and a critic, -hard, inexorable, remorseless, to the verge of cynicism. -What we call his “social philosophy” is a -<span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>modus vivendi</i></span> arrived at between them. Both agree -in repudiating “marriage for love”; but the idealist -repudiates it in the name of love, the critic in the -name of marriage. Love, for the idealist Ibsen, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xxxix'>xxxix</span>is a passion which loses its virtue when it reaches -its goal, which inspires only while it aspires, and -flags bewildered when it attains. Marriage, for -the critic Ibsen, is an institution beset with pitfalls -into which those are surest to step who enter -in blinded with love. In the latter dramas the -tragedy of married life is commonly generated by -other forms of blindness—the childish innocence of -Nora, the maidenly ignorance of Helena Alving, -neither of whom married precisely “for love”; here -it is blind Love alone who, to the jealous eye of the -critic, plays the part of the Serpent in the Edens -of wedded bliss. There is, it is clear, an element of -unsolved contradiction in Ibsen’s thought;—Love is -at once so precious and so deadly, a possession so -glorious that all other things in life are of less worth, -and yet capable of producing only disastrously illusive -effects upon those who have entered into the relations -to which it prompts. But with Ibsen—and it is a -grave intellectual defect—there is an absolute antagonism -between spirit and form. An institution is -always, with him, a shackle for the free life of souls, -not an organ through which they attain expression; -and since the institution of marriage cannot but be, -there remains as the only logical solution that which -he enjoins—to keep the soul’s life out of it. To -“those about to marry,” Ibsen therefore says in effect, -“Be sure you are not in love!” And to those who -are in love he says, “Part!”</p> - -<p class='c012'>It is easy to understand the irony with which a man -who thought thus of love contemplated the business -of “love-making,” and the ceremonial discipline of -Continental courtship. The whole unnumbered tribe -of wooing and plighted lovers were for him unconscious -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xl'>xl</span>actors in a world-comedy of Love’s contriving—naïve -fools of fancy, passionately weaving the cords that -are to strangle passion. Comedy like this cannot be -altogether gay; and as each fresh romance decays -into routine, and each aspiring passion goes out -under the spell of a vulgar environment, or submits -to the bitter salvation of a final parting, the -ringing laughter grows harsh and hollow, and notes -of ineffable sadness escape from the poet’s Stoic self-restraint.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Ibsen had grown up in a school which cultivated the -romantic, piquant, picturesque in style; which ran -riot in wit, in vivacious and brilliant imagery, in -resonant rhythms and telling double rhymes. It must -be owned that this was not the happiest school for a -dramatist, nor can <cite>Love’s Comedy</cite> be regarded, in the -matter of style, as other than a risky experiment which -nothing but the sheer dramatic force of an Ibsen could -have carried through. As it is, there are palpable -fluctuations, discrepancies of manner; the realism of -treatment often provokes a realism of style out of -keeping with the lyric afflatus of the verse; and we -pass with little warning from the barest colloquial -prose to strains of high-wrought poetic fancy. Nevertheless, -the style, with all its inequalities, becomes in -Ibsen’s hands a singularly plastic medium of dramatic -expression. The marble is too richly veined for ideal -sculpture, but it takes the print of life. The wit, -exuberant as it is, does not coruscate indiscriminately -upon all lips; and it has many shades and -varieties—caustic, ironical, imaginative, playful, -passionate—which take their temper from the speaker’s -mood.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The present version of the play retains the metres -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xli'>xli</span>of the original, and follows it in general line for line. -For a long passage, occupying substantially the first -twenty pages, the translator is indebted to the editor -of the present work; and two other passages—Falk’s -tirades on pp. <a href='#Page_343'>58</a> and <a href='#Page_385'>100</a>—result from a fusion of -versions made independently by us both.</p> - -<div class='c014'>C. H. H.</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_1'>1</span> - <h2 class='c008'><span class='xlarge'>LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT</span> <br /> (1855)</h2> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_2'>2</span> - <h3 class='c015'>CHARACTERS</h3> -</div> - - <ul class='ul_1 c000'> - <li><span class='sc'>Lady Inger Ottisdaughter Römer</span>, <i>widow of High Steward Nils - Gyldenlöve.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span>, <i>her daughter.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>, <i>Danish knight and councillor.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span>, <i>an outlawed Norwegian noble.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke</span>, <i>Swedish commander.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Biörn</span>, <i>majordomo at Östråt.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Finn</span>, <i>a servant.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Einar Huk</span>, <i>bailiff at Östråt.</i> - </li> - <li><i>Servants, peasants, and Swedish men-at-arms.</i> - </li> - </ul> - -<hr class='c020' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c021'> - <div><i>The action takes place at Östråt Manor, on the Trondhiem Fiord, in the year 1528.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c017'>[<span class='sc'>Pronunciation of Names.</span>—Östråt = <i>Östrot</i>; Elina -(Norwegian, Eline) = <i>Eleena</i>; Stensson = <i>Staynson</i>; Biörn = -<i>Byörn</i>; Jens Bielke = <i>Yens Byelke</i>; Huk = <i>Hook</i>. The <i>g</i>'s -in “Inger” and in “Gyldenlöve” are, of course, hard. The -final <i>e</i>'s and the <i>ö</i>'s pronounced much as in German.]</p> -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_3'>3</span><span class='large'>LADY INGER OF ÖSTRÅT</span> | DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS</div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c023' /> - -<h3 class='c015'>ACT FIRST</h3> - -<p class='c024'><i>A room at Östråt. Through an open door in the -back, the Banquet Hall is seen in faint -moonlight, which shines fitfully through a -deep bow-window in the opposite wall. To -the right, an entrance-door; further forward, -a curtained window. On the left, a -door leading to the inner rooms; further -forward a large open fireplace, which casts -a glow over the room. It is a stormy evening.</i></p> -<p class='c025'><span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span> <i>are sitting by the fireplace. -The latter is occupied in polishing a helmet. -Several pieces of armour lie near -them, along with a sword and shield.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a pause.</i>] Who was Knut<a id='r12' /><a href='#f12' class='c016'><sup>[12]</sup></a> Alfson?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My Lady says he was the last of Norway’s -knighthood.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_4'>4</span><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And the Danes killed him at Oslo-fiord?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If you know not that, ask any child of five.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So Knut Alfson was the last of our knighthood? -And now he’s dead and gone! [<i>Holds -up the helmet.</i>] Well, thou must e’en be content -to hang scoured and bright in the Banquet -Hall; for what art thou now but an empty nut-shell? -The kernel—the worms have eaten that -many a winter agone.</p> - -<p class='c027'>What say you, Biörn—may not one call Norway’s -land an empty nut-shell, even like the -helmet here; bright without, worm-eaten within?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hold your peace, and mind your task!—Is -the helmet ready?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It shines like silver in the moonlight.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then put it by.—See here; scrape the rust -off the sword.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Turning the sword over and examining it.</i>]</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is it worth while?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_5'>5</span><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The edge is gone.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What’s that to you? Give it me.—Here, take -the shield.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As before.</i>] There is no grip to it!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Mutters.</i>] Let me get a grip on <em class='gesperrt'>you</em>——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Finn</span> <i>hums to himself for a while.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What now?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>An empty helmet, a sword with no edge, a -shield with no grip—so it has all come to that. -Who can blame Lady Inger if she leaves such -weapons to hang scoured and polished on the -walls, instead of rusting them in Danish blood?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Folly! Is there not peace in the land?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peace? Ay, when the peasant has shot away -his last arrow, and the wolf has reft the last -lamb from the fold, then is there peace between -them. But ’tis a strange friendship. Well, well; -let that pass. ’Tis fitting, as I said, that the -harness hang bright in the hall; for you know -<span class='pageno' id='Page_6'>6</span>the old saw: “Call none a man but the knightly -man.” So now that we have never a knight in -the land, we have never a man; and where no -man is, there must women order things; therefore——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Therefore—therefore I bid you hold your -foul prate!</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>Rises.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>The evening wears on. Enough; you may -hang the helmet and armour in the hall again.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Nay, best let it be till to-morrow.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What, do you fear the dark?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not by day. And if so be I fear it at even, -I am not the only one. Ah, you may look; I -tell you in the housefolk’s room there is talk of -many things. [<i>Lower.</i>] They say that, night -by night, a tall figure, clad in black, walks the -Banquet Hall.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Old wives’ tales!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, but they all swear ’tis true.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That I well believe.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_7'>7</span><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The strangest of all is that Lady Inger -thinks the same——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starting.</i>] Lady Inger? What does she -think?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What Lady Inger thinks? I warrant few can -tell that. But sure it is that she has no rest -in her. See you not how day by day she grows -thinner and paler? [<i>Looks keenly at him.</i>] -They say she never sleeps—and that it is because -of the black figure——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>While he is speaking,</i> <span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span> -<i>has appeared in the half-open door on -the left. She stops and listens, unobserved.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you believe such follies?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, half and half. There be folk, too, that -read things another way. But that is pure -malice, I’ll be bound.—Hearken, Biörn—know -you the song that is going round the country?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A song?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ’tis on all folks’ lips. ’Tis a shameful -scurril thing, for sure; yet it goes prettily. Just -listen:</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>Sings in a low voice.</i></div> -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_8'>8</span>Dame Inger sitteth in Östråt fair,</div> - <div class='line'>She wraps her in costly furs—</div> - <div class='line'>She decks her in velvet and ermine and vair,</div> - <div class='line'>Red gold are the beads that she twines in her hair—</div> - <div class='line'>But small peace in that soul of hers.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dame Inger hath sold her to Denmark’s lord.</div> - <div class='line'>She bringeth her folk ’neath the stranger’s yoke—</div> - <div class='line'>In guerdon whereof—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>enraged, seizes him by the throat.</i> -<span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span> <i>withdraws without -having been seen.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will send you guerdonless to the foul fiend, -if you prate of Lady Inger but one unseemly -word more.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Breaking from his grasp.</i>] Why—did <i>I</i> -make the song?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>The blast of a horn is heard from the right.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hark—what is that?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A horn. Then there come guests to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>At the window.</i>] They are opening the gate. -I hear the clatter of hoofs in the courtyard. It -must be a knight.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_9'>9</span><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A knight? Nay, that can scarce be.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why not?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Did you not say yourself: the last of our -knighthood is dead and gone?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out to the right.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The accursed knave, with his prying and peering! -What avails all my striving to hide and -hush things? They whisper of her even -now—; soon all men will be shouting aloud -that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes in again through the door on the left; -looks round her, and says with suppressed emotion:</i>] -Are you alone, Biörn?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is it you, Mistress Elina?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Come, Biörn, tell me one of your stories; I -know you can tell others than those that-—-</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A story? Now—so late in the evening——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If you count from the time when it grew dark -at Östråt, then ’tis late indeed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_10'>10</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What ails you? Has aught crossed you? -You seem so restless.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>May be so.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is something amiss. I have hardly -known you this half year past.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Bethink you: this half year past my dearest -sister Lucia has been sleeping in the vault below.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is not all, Mistress Elina—it is not that -alone that makes you now thoughtful and white -and silent, now restless and ill at ease, as you -are to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not that alone, you think? And wherefore -not? Was she not gentle and pure and fair as -a summer night? Biörn,—I tell you, Lucia -was dear to me as my life. Have you forgotten -how many a time, when we were children, we -sat on your knee in the winter evenings? You -sang songs to us, and told us tales——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, then you were blithe and gay.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, then, Biörn! Then I lived a glorious life -in fable-land, and in my own imaginings. Can -<span class='pageno' id='Page_11'>11</span>it be that the sea-strand was naked then as now? -If it was so, I knew it not. ’Twas there I loved -to go weaving all my fair romances; my heroes -came from afar and sailed again across the sea; -I lived in their midst, and set forth with them -when they sailed away. [<i>Sinks on a chair.</i>] -Now I feel so faint and weary; I can live no -longer in my tales. They are only—tales. -[<i>Rising, vehemently.</i>] Biörn, know you what -has made me sick? A truth; a hateful, hateful -truth, that gnaws me day and night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do you remember how sometimes you would -give us good counsel and wise saws? Sister -Lucia followed them; but I—ah, well-a-day!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Consoling her.</i>] Well, well—-!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know it—I was proud, overweening! In all -our games, I would still be the Queen, because -I was the tallest, the fairest, the wisest! I -know it!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is true.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Once you took me by the hand and looked earnestly -at me, and said: “Be not proud of your -<span class='pageno' id='Page_12'>12</span>fairness, or your wisdom; but be proud as the -mountain eagle as often as you think: I am -Inger Gyldenlöve’s daughter!”</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And was it not matter enough for pride?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You told me so often enough, Biörn! Oh, you -told me many a tale in those days. [<i>Presses his -hand.</i>] Thanks for them all!—Now, tell me -one more; it might make me light of heart again, -as of old.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are a child no longer.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, indeed! But let me dream that I am.—Come, -tell on!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Throws herself into a chair.</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>sits -on the edge of the high hearth.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Once upon a time there was a high-born -knight——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has been listening restlessly in the direction -of the hall, seizes his arm and breaks out -in a vehement whisper.</i>] Hush! No need to -shout so loud; I can hear well!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_13'>13</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>More softly.</i>] Once upon a time there was -a high-born knight, of whom there went the -strange report——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Elina</span> <i>half rises, and listens in anxious -suspense in the direction of the hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Mistress Elina,—what ails you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Sits down again.</i>] Me? Nothing. Go on.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, as I was saying—did this knight but -look straight in a woman’s eyes, never could she -forget it after; her thoughts must follow him -wherever he went, and she must waste away -with sorrow.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have heard that tale.—Moreover, ’tis no tale -you are telling, for the knight you speak of is -Nils Lykke, who sits even now in the Council -of Denmark——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>May be so.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, let it pass—go on!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Now it happened once on a time——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_14'>14</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises suddenly.</i>] Hush; be still!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What now? What is the matter?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Listening.</i>] Do you hear?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is there! Yes, by the cross of Christ, it -<em class='gesperrt'>is</em> there!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div>[<i>Rises.</i>] <em class='gesperrt'>What</em> is there? Where?</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>She herself—in the hall——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes hastily towards the hall.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Following.</i>] How can you think—? Mistress -Elina,—go to your chamber!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush; stand still! Do not move; do not let -her see you! Wait—the moon is coming out. -Can you not see the black-robed figure——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>By all the saints——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_15'>15</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do you see—she turns Knut Alfson’s picture -to the wall. Ha-ha; be sure it looks her too -straight in the eyes!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Mistress Elina, hear me!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Going back towards the fireplace.</i>] Now I -know what I know!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Then it is true!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who was it, Biörn? Who was it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You saw as plainly as I.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well? Whom did I see?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You saw your mother.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Half to herself.</i>] Night after night I have -heard her steps in there. I have heard her -whispering and moaning like a soul in pain. -And what says the song—? Ah, now I know! -Now I know that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_16'>16</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters rapidly -from the hall, without noticing the -others; she goes to the window, draws -the curtain, and gazes out as if watching -for some one on the high road; after a -while, she turns and goes slowly back -into the hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, following her with her eyes.</i>] White, -white as the dead——!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>An uproar of many voices is heard outside -the door on the right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What can this be?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Go out and see what is amiss.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Einar Huk</span>, <i>the bailiff, appears in the -anteroom, with a crowd of</i> <span class='sc'>Retainers</span> -<i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Peasants</span>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In the doorway.</i>] Straight in to her! And -be not abashed!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What seek you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Lady Inger herself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_17'>17</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Lady Inger? So late?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Late, but time enough, I wot.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yes, yes; she must hear us now!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>The whole rabble crowds into the room. -At the same moment</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span> <i>appears -in the doorway of the hall. A sudden -silence.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What would you with me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>We sought you, noble lady, to——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well—say on!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why, we are not ashamed of our errand. In -one word—we come to pray you for weapons -and leave——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Weapons and leave—? And for what?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There has come a rumour from Sweden that -the people of the Dales have risen against King -Gustav——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_18'>18</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The people of the Dales?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, so the tidings run, and they seem sure -enough.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well—if it were so—what have you to do -with, the Dale-folk’s rising?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>We will join them! We will help. We will -free ourselves!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Can the time be come?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>From all our borderlands the peasants are -pouring across to the Dales. Even outlaws that -have wandered for years in the mountains are -venturing down to the homesteads again, and -drawing men together, and whetting their rusty -swords.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a pause.</i>] Tell me, men—have you -thought well of this? Have you counted the -cost, if King Gustav’s men should win?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly and imploringly to</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span>.] -Count the cost to the Danes if King Gustav’s -men should lose.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_19'>19</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div>[<i>Evasively.</i>] That reckoning is not for me</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>to make. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Turns to the people.</i></span></p> - -<p class='c027'>You know that King Gustav is sure of help -from Denmark. King Frederick is his friend, -and will never leave him in the lurch—-—-</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But if the people were now to rise all over -Norway’s land?—if we all rose as one man, -nobles and peasants together?—Ay, Lady Inger -Gyldenlöve, the time we have waited for is -surely come. We have but to rise now to drive -the strangers from the land.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, out with the Danish sheriffs! Out with -the foreign masters! Out with the Councillors’ -lackeys!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Ah, there is metal in them; -and yet, yet——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] She is of two minds. [<i>To -Elina.</i>] What say you now, Mistress Elina—have -you not sinned in misjudging your mother?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Biörn—if my eyes have lied to me, I could -tear them out of my head!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_20'>20</span><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>See you not, my noble lady, King Gustav -must be dealt with first. Were <em class='gesperrt'>his</em> power once -gone, the Danes cannot long hold this land——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then we shall be free. We shall have no -more foreign masters, and can choose ourselves -a king, as the Swedes have done before us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With animation.</i>] A king for ourselves! -Are you thinking of the Sture<a id='r13' /><a href='#f13' class='c016'><sup>[13]</sup></a> stock?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>King Christiern and others after him have -swept bare our ancient houses. The best of our -nobles are outlaws on the mountain paths, if so -be they still live. Nevertheless, it might still -be possible to find one or other shoot of the old -stems——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hastily.</i>] Enough, Einar Huk, enough! -[<i>To herself.</i>] Ah, my dearest hope!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Turns to the</i> <span class='sc'>Peasants</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Retainers</span>.</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have warned you, now, as well as I can. I -have told you how great is the risk you run. -But if you are fixed in your purpose, ’twere -folly in me to forbid what I have no power to -prevent.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_21'>21</span><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then we have your leave to——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You have your own firm will; take counsel -with <em class='gesperrt'>that</em>. If it be as you say, that you are -daily harassed and oppressed——I know but -little of these matters. I will not know more! -What can I, a lonely woman—? Even if you -were to plunder the Banquet Hall—and there’s -many a good weapon on the walls—you are the -masters at Östråt to-night. You must do as -seems good to you. Good-night!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Loud cries of joy from the multitude. -Candles are lighted; the</i> <span class='sc'>Retainers</span> <i>bring -out weapons of different kinds from the -hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seizes</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger’s</span> <i>hand as she is going.</i>] -Thanks, my noble and high-souled mistress! I, -that have known you from childhood up—I have -never doubted you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush, Biörn—’tis a dangerous game I have -ventured this night. The others stake only their -lives; but I, trust me, a thousandfold more!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How mean you? Do you fear for your power -and your favour with——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My power? O God in Heaven!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_22'>22</span><span class='sc'>A Retainer.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Comes from the hall with a large sword.</i>]</div> - -<p class='c027'>See, here’s a real good wolf’s-tooth! With this -will I flay the blood-suckers’ lackeys!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To another.</i>] What is that you have found?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Retainer.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The breastplate they call Herlof Hyttefad’s.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis too good for such as you. Look, here is -the shaft of Sten Sture’s<a id='r14' /><a href='#f14' class='c016'><sup>[14]</sup></a> lance; hang the -breastplate upon it, and we shall have the noblest -standard heart can desire.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes from the door on the left, with a letter -in his hand, and goes towards</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span>.] I -have sought you through all the house——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What would you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hands her the letter.</i>] A messenger is come -from Trondhiem<a id='r15' /><a href='#f15' class='c016'><sup>[15]</sup></a> with a letter for you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Let me see! [<i>Opening the letter.</i>] From -Trondhiem? What can it be? [<i>Runs through -<span class='pageno' id='Page_23'>23</span>the letter.</i>] O God! From him! and here in -Norway——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Reads on with strong emotion, while the -men go on bringing out arms from the -hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] He is coming here. He is -coming here to-night!—Ay, then ’tis with our -wits we must fight, not with the sword.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Enough, enough, good fellows; we are well -armed now. Set we forth now on our way!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a sudden change of tone.</i>] No man -shall leave my house to-night!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But the wind is fair, noble lady; ’twill take -us quickly up the fiord, and——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It shall be as I have said.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar Huk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Are we to wait till to-morrow, then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Till to-morrow, and longer still. No armed -man shall go forth from Östråt yet awhile.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Signs of displeasure among the crowd.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_24'>24</span><span class='sc'>Some of the Peasants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>We will go all the same, Lady Inger!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Cry Spreads.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay; we <em class='gesperrt'>will</em> go!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Advancing a step towards them.</i>] Who dares -to move?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A silence. After a moment’s pause, she -adds:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have thought for you. What do you common -folk know of the country’s needs? How -dare you judge of such things? You must e’en -bear your oppressions and burdens yet awhile. -Why murmur at that, when you see that we, -your leaders, are as ill bested as you?——Take -all the weapons back to the hall. You shall -know my further will hereafter. Go!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Retainers</span> <i>take back the arms, and -the whole crowd then withdraws by the -door on the right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly to</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn</span>.] Say you still that I have -sinned in misjudging—the Lady of Östråt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Beckons to</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn</span>, <i>and says</i>.] Have a guest-chamber -ready.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well, Lady Inger!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_25'>25</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And let the gate be open to whoever shall -knock.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The gate open!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The gate open. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Goes out to the right.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Elina</span>, <i>who has already reached the door -on the left.</i>] Stay here!——Elina—my child—I -have something to say to you alone.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I hear you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Elina——you think evil of your mother.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I think, to my sorrow, what your deeds have -forced me to think.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you answer as your bitter spirit bids you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who has filled my spirit with bitterness? -From my childhood I had been wont to look up -to you as a great and high-souled woman. ’Twas -<span class='pageno' id='Page_26'>26</span>in your likeness that I pictured the women of -the chronicles and the Book of Heroes. I -thought the Lord God himself had set his seal -on your brow, and marked you out as the leader -of the helpless and the oppressed. Knights and -nobles sang your praise in the feast-hall; and -even the peasants, far and near, called you the -country’s pillar and its hope. All thought that -through you the good times were to come again! -All thought that through you a new day was to -dawn over the land! The night is still here; and -I scarce know if through you I dare look for any -morning.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis easy to see whence you have learnt such -venomous words. You have let yourself give -ear to what the thoughtless rabble mutters and -murmurs about things it can little judge of.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>“Truth is in the people’s mouth,” was your -word when they praised you in speech and song.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>May be so. But if indeed I chose to sit here -idle, though it was my part to act—think you -not that such a choice were burden enough for -me, without your adding to its weight?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The weight I add to your burden crushes me -no less than you. Lightly and freely I drew -the breath of life, so long as I had you to believe -<span class='pageno' id='Page_27'>27</span>in. For my pride is my life; and well -might I have been proud, had you remained -what once you were.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And what proves to you that I have not? -Elina—how know you so surely that you are -not doing your mother wrong?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Vehemently.</i>] Oh, that I were!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peace! You have no right to call your -mother to account.—With a single word I -could——; but ’twould be an ill word for you -to hear; you must await what time shall bring; -may be that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Turns to go.</i>] Sleep well, my mother!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hesitates.</i>] Nay—stay with me; I have still -somewhat—— Come nearer;—you must hear -me, Elina!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sits down by the table in front of the -window.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I hear you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For as silent as you are, I know well that -you often long to be gone from here. Östråt is -too lonely and lifeless for you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_28'>28</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do you wonder at that, my mother?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It rests with you whether all this shall henceforth -be changed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Listen.—I look for a guest to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes nearer.</i>] A guest?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A guest, who must remain a stranger to all. -None must know whence he comes or whither he -goes.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Throws herself, with a cry of joy, at her -mother’s feet, and seizes her hands.</i>] My -mother! My mother! Forgive me, if you can, -all the wrong I have done you!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What do you mean? Elina, I do not understand -you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then they were all deceived! You are still -true at heart!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_29'>29</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Rise, rise and tell me——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Think you I do not know who the stranger is?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You know? And yet——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Think you the gates of Östråt shut so close, -that never a whisper of the country’s woe can -slip through them? Think you I do not know -that the heir of many a noble line wanders outlawed, -without rest or shelter, while Danish -masters lord it in the home of his fathers?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And what then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know well that many a high-born knight -is hunted through the woods like a hungry -wolf. No hearth has he to rest by, no bread -to eat——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Coldly.</i>] Enough! Now I understand you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Continuing.</i>] And that is why the gates of -Östråt must stand open by night! That is why -he must remain a stranger to all, this guest of -whom none must know whence he comes or -<span class='pageno' id='Page_30'>30</span>whither he goes! You are setting at naught the -harsh decree that forbids you to harbour or succour -the outlaw——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Enough, I say!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a short silence, adds with an effort:</i> -You mistake, Elina—’tis no outlaw I look for.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises.</i>] Then I have understood you ill -indeed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Listen to me, my child; but think as you -listen; if indeed you can tame that wild spirit -of yours.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am tame, till you have spoken.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Attend, then, to what I have to tell you.—I -have sought, so far as lay in my power, to keep -you in ignorance of all our griefs and miseries. -What could it avail to fill your young heart with -wrath and care? ’Tis not women’s weeping -and wailing that can deliver us; we need the -courage and strength of men.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who has told you that, when courage and -strength are needed, I shall be found wanting?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush, child;—I might take you at your word.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_31'>31</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How mean you, my mother?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I might call on you for both; I might——; -but let me say my say out first.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Know then that the time seems now to be -drawing nigh, towards which the Danish Council -have been working for many a year—the -time, I mean, for them to strike the last blow -at our rights and our freedom. Therefore must -we now——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Eagerly.</i>] Openly rebel, my mother?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No; we must gain breathing-time. The -Council is now assembled at Copenhagen, considering -how best to go to work. Most of them -hold, ’tis said, that there can be no end to dissensions -till Norway and Denmark are one; for -should we still possess our rights as a free land -when the time comes to choose the next king, ’tis -most like that the feud will break out openly. -Now the Danish councillors would hinder -this——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, they would hinder it—! But are we to -endure such things? Are we to look on quietly -while——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, we will not endure it. But to take up -arms—to declare open war—what would come -<span class='pageno' id='Page_32'>32</span>of that, so long as we are not united? And -were we ever less united in this land than we -are even now?—No, if aught is to be accomplished, -it must be secretly and in silence. -Even as I said, we must have time to draw -breath. In the South, a good part of the nobles -are for the Dane; but here in the North they -are still in doubt. Therefore has King Frederick -sent hither one of his most trusted councillors, -to assure himself with his own eyes how -we stand affected.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In suspense.</i>] Well—and then——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He is the guest I look for to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He comes hither? And to-night?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A trading ship brought him to Trondhiem -yesterday. News has just reached me of his -approach; he may be here within the hour.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you do not bethink you, my mother, how -’twill endanger your fame thus to receive the -Danish envoy? Do not the people already look -on you with distrustful eyes? How can you hope -that, when the time comes, they will let you -rule and guide them, if it be known that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_33'>33</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fear not. All this I have fully weighed; but -there is no danger. His errand in Norway is a -secret; he has come unknown to Trondhiem, and -unknown shall he be our guest at Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And the name of this Danish lord——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It sounds well, Elina; Denmark has scarce a -nobler name.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But what then do you purpose? I cannot yet -grasp your meaning.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You will soon understand.—Since we cannot -trample on the serpent, we must bind it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Take heed that it burst not your bonds.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It rests with you to tighten them as you will.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>With me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have long seen that Östråt is as a cage to -you. The young falcon chafes behind the iron -bars.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_34'>34</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My wings are clipped. Even if you set me -free—’twould avail me little.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your wings are not clipped, save by your own -will.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Will? My will is in your hands. Be what -you once were, and I too——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Enough, enough. Hear me further.—It would -scarce break your heart to leave Östråt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Maybe not, my mother!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You told me once, that you lived your happiest -life in your tales and histories. What if -that life were to be yours once more?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Elina—if a mighty noble were to come and -lead you to his castle, where you should find -damsels and squires, silken robes and lofty halls -awaiting you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A noble, you say?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_35'>35</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A noble.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>More softly.</i>] And the Danish envoy comes -hither to-night?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If so be, then I fear to read the meaning -of your words.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is naught to fear if you misread them -not. It is far from my thought to put force -upon you. You shall choose for yourself in -this matter, and follow your own rede.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes a step nearer.</i>] Know you the tale of -the mother who drove across the hills by night, -with her little children in the sledge? The -wolves were on her track; ’twas life or death -with her;—and one by one she cast out her -little ones, to win time and save herself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nursery tales! A mother would tear the heart -from her breast, before she would cast her child -to the wolves!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Were I not my mother’s daughter, I would -say you were right. But you are like that -<span class='pageno' id='Page_36'>36</span>mother; one by one have you cast out your -daughters to the wolves. The eldest went first. -Five years ago Merete<a id='r16' /><a href='#f16' class='c016'><sup>[16]</sup></a> went forth from Östråt; -now she dwells in Bergen, and is Vinzents -Lunge’s<a id='r17' /><a href='#f17' class='c016'><sup>[17]</sup></a> wife. But think you she is happy as -the Danish noble’s lady? Vinzents Lunge is -mighty, well-nigh as a king; Merete has damsels -and squires, silken robes and lofty halls; -but the day has no sunshine for her, and the -night no rest; for she has never loved him. He -came hither and he wooed her, for she was the -greatest heiress in Norway, and ’twas then needful -for him to gain a footing in the land. I know -it; I know it well! Merete bowed to your will; -she went with the stranger lord.—But what has -it cost her? More tears than a mother should -wish to answer for at the day of reckoning!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know my reckoning, and I fear it not.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your reckoning ends not here. Where is -Lucia, your second child?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ask God, who took her.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis you I ask; ’tis you must answer for her -young life. She was glad as a bird in spring -<span class='pageno' id='Page_37'>37</span>when she sailed from Östråt to be Merete’s -guest. A year passed, and she stood in this -room once more; but her cheeks were white, and -death had gnawed deep into her breast. Ah, I -startle you, my mother! You thought the ugly -secret was buried with her;—but she told me all. -A courtly knight had won her heart. He would -have wedded her. You knew that her honour -was at stake; yet your will never bent—and -your child had to die. You see, I know all!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>All? Then she told you his name?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>His name? No; his name she did not tell me. -She shrank from his name as though it stung -her;—she never uttered it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Relieved, to herself.</i>] Ah, then you do <em class='gesperrt'>not</em> -know all——</p> - -<p class='c027'>Elina—’tis true that the whole of this matter -was well known to me. But there is one thing -it seems you have overlooked. The lord whom -Lucia met in Bergen was a Dane——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That, too, I know.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And his love was a lie. With guile and soft -speeches he had ensnared her.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_38'>38</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know it; but nevertheless she loved him; and -had you had a mother’s heart, your daughter’s -honour had been more to you than all.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not more than her happiness. Think you -that, with Merete’s lot before my eyes, I could -sacrifice my second child to a man that loved -her not?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Cunning words may beguile many, but they -beguile not me——</p> - -<p class='c027'>Think not I know nothing of all that is passing -in our land. I understand your counsels -but too well. I know that in you the Danish -lords have no true friend. It may be that you -hate them; but you fear them too. When you -gave Merete to Vinzents Lunge, the Danes held -the mastery on all sides throughout our land. -Three years later, when you forbade Lucia to -wed the man to whom, though he had deceived -her, she had given her life—things were far -different then. The King’s Danish governors -had shamefully misused the common people, and -you deemed it not wise to link yourself still -more closely to the foreign tyrants.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And what have you done to avenge her that -was sent so young to her grave? You have done -nothing. Well then, I will act in your stead; I -will avenge all the shame they have brought -upon our people and our house!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_39'>39</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You? What will you do?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will go my way, even as you go yours. -What I shall do I myself know not; but I feel -within me the strength to dare all for our righteous -cause.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then have you a hard fight before you. I -once promised as you do now—and my hair has -grown grey under the burden of that promise.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good-night! Your guest will soon be here, -and at that meeting I should be one too many.</p> - -<p class='c027'>It may be there is yet time for you——; -well, God strengthen and guide you on your -path! Forget not that the eyes of many thousands -are fixed on you. Think on Merete, weeping -late and early over her wasted life. Think -on Lucia, sleeping in her black coffin.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And one thing more. Forget not that in the -game you play this night, your stake is your -last child. [<i>Goes out to the left</i>.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks after her awhile.</i>] My last child? -You know not how true was that word——But -the stake is not my child only. God help me, -I am playing to-night for the whole of Norway’s -land.</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_40'>40</span>Ah—is not that some one riding through the -gateway? [<i>Listens at the window.</i></p> - -<p class='c027'>No; not yet. Only the wind; it blows cold -as the grave——</p> - -<p class='c027'>Has God a right to do this?—To make me a -woman—and then to lay on my shoulders a -man’s work?</p> - -<p class='c027'>For I have the welfare of the country in -my hands. It is in my power to make them -rise as one man. They look to <em class='gesperrt'>me</em> for the signal; -and if I give it not now—it may never -be given.</p> - -<p class='c027'>To delay? To sacrifice the many for the -sake of one?—Were it not better if I could——? -No, no, no—I <em class='gesperrt'>will</em> not! I <em class='gesperrt'>cannot</em>!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Steals a glance towards the Banquet Hall, -but turns away again as if in dread, and -whispers:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I can see them in there now. Pale spectres—dead -ancestors—fallen kinsfolk.—Ah, those -eyes that pierce me from every corner!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Makes a gesture of repulsion, and cries:</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Sten Sture! Knut Alfson! Olaf Skaktavl! -Back—back!—I <em class='gesperrt'>cannot</em> do this!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A</i> <span class='sc'>Stranger</span>, <i>strongly built, and with -grizzled hair and beard, has entered from -the Banquet Hall. He is dressed in a -torn lambskin tunic; his weapons are -rusty.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Stranger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Stops in the doorway, and says in a low -voice.</i>] Hail to you, Inger Gyldenlöve!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_41'>41</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Turns with a scream.</i>] Ah, Christ in heaven -save me!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Falls back into a chair. The</i> <span class='sc'>Stranger</span> -<i>stands gazing at her, motionless, leaning -on his sword.</i></p> -</div> - -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_42'>42</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT SECOND</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c031'><i>The room at Östråt, as in the first Act.</i></p> - -<p class='c029'><span class='sc'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve</span> <i>is seated at the table -on the right, by the window.</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> -<i>is standing a little way from her. -Their faces show that they have been engaged -in a heated discussion.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For the last time, Inger Gyldenlöve—you are -not to be moved from your purpose?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I can do nought else. And my counsel to you -is: do as I do. If it be Heaven’s will that -Norway perish utterly, perish it must, for all we -may do to save it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='fss'>OLAF SKAKTAVL.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And think you I can content my heart with -that belief? Shall I sit and look idly on, now -that the hour is come? Do you forget the reckoning -I have against them? They have robbed -me of my lands, and parcelled them out among -themselves. My son, my only child, the last -of my race, they have slaughtered like a dog. -Myself they have outlawed and hunted through -<span class='pageno' id='Page_43'>43</span>forest and fell these twenty years.—Once and -again have folk whispered of my death; but this -I believe, that they shall not lay me beneath the -sod before I have seen my vengeance.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is there a long life before you. What -have you in mind to do?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do? How should I know what I will do? It -has never been my part to plot and plan. That -is where you must help me. You have the wit -for that. I have but my sword and my two -arms.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your sword is rusted, Olaf Skaktavl! All the -swords in Norway are rusted.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is doubtless why some folk fight only -with their tongues.—Inger Gyldenlöve—great -is the change in you. Time was when the heart -of a man beat in your breast.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Put me not in mind of what <em class='gesperrt'>was</em>.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis for that very purpose I am here. You -<em class='gesperrt'>shall</em> hear me, even if——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_44'>44</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Be it so then; but be brief; for—I must say -it—this is no place of safety for you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Östråt is no place of safety for an outlaw? -That I have long known. But you forget that -an outlaw is unsafe wheresoever he may wander.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Speak then; I will not hinder you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis nigh on thirty years now since first I -saw you. It was at Akershus<a id='r18' /><a href='#f18' class='c016'><sup>[18]</sup></a> in the house of -Knut Alfson and his wife. You were little -more than a child then; yet were you bold as the -soaring falcon, and wild and headstrong too at -times. Many were the wooers around you. I -too held you dear—dear as no woman before or -since. But you cared for nothing, thought of -nothing, save your country’s evil case and its -great need.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I counted but fifteen summers then—remember -that! And was it not as though a frenzy -had seized us all in those days?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Call it what you will; but one thing I know—even -the old and sober men among us thought -<span class='pageno' id='Page_45'>45</span>it written in the counsels of the Lord on high -that you were she who should break our thraldom -and win us all our rights again. And -more: you yourself then thought as we did.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas a sinful thought, Olaf Skaktavl. ’Twas -my proud heart, and not the Lord’s call, that -spoke in me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You <em class='gesperrt'>could</em> have been the chosen one had -you but willed it. You came of the noblest -blood in Norway; power and riches were soon -to be yours; and you had an ear for the cries -of anguish—then!</p> - -<p class='c027'>Do you remember that afternoon when Henrik -Krummedike and the Danish fleet anchored -off Akershus? The captains of the fleet offered -terms of peace, and, trusting to the safe-conduct, -Knut Alfson rowed on board. Three -hours later, we bore him through the castle -gate——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A corpse; a corpse!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The best heart in Norway burst, when -Krummedike’s hirelings struck him down. Methinks -I still can see the long procession that -passed into the banquet-hall, heavily, two by -two. There he lay on his bier, white as a spring -cloud, with the axe-cleft in his brow. I may -safely say that the boldest men in Norway -<span class='pageno' id='Page_46'>46</span>were gathered there that night. Lady Margrete -stood by her dead husband’s head, and we -swore as one man to venture lands and life to -avenge this last misdeed and all that had gone -before.—Inger Gyldenlöve,—who was it that -burst through the circle of men? A maiden—almost -a child—with fire in her eyes and her -voice half choked with tears.—What was it she -swore? Shall I repeat your words?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I swore what the rest of you swore; neither -more nor less.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You remember your oath—and yet you have -forgotten it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And how did the others keep their promise? -I speak not of you, Olaf Skaktavl, but of your -friends, all Norway’s nobles? Not one of them, -in all these years, has had the courage to be a -man; yet they lay it to my charge that I am a -woman.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know what you would say. Why have they -bent to the yoke, and not defied the tyrants to -the last? ’Tis but too true; there is base metal -enough in our noble houses nowadays. But had -they held together—who knows what then might -have been? And you could have held them together, -for before you all had bowed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_47'>47</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My answer were easy enough, but ’twould -scarce content you. So let us leave speaking of -what cannot be changed. Tell me rather what -has brought you to Östråt. Do you need harbour? -Well, I will try to hide you. If you -would have aught else, speak out; you shall find -me ready——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For twenty years have I been homeless. In -the mountains of Jæmteland my hair has grown -grey. My dwelling has been with wolves and -bears.—You see, Lady Inger—<i>I</i> need you not; -but both nobles and people stand in sore need -of you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The old burden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, it sounds but ill in your ears, I know; -yet hear it you must, for all that. In brief, then: -I come from Sweden: troubles are brewing: the -Dales are ready to rise.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peter Kanzler<a id='r19' /><a href='#f19' class='c016'><sup>[19]</sup></a> is with us—secretly, you understand.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starting.</i>] Peter Kanzler?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_48'>48</span><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis he that has sent me to Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises.</i>] Peter Kanzler, say you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He himself;—but mayhap you no longer -know him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Half to herself.</i>] Only too well!—But tell -me, I pray you,—what message do you bring?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>When the rumour of the rising reached the -border mountains, where I then was, I set off -at once into Sweden. ’Twas not hard to guess -that Peter Kanzler had a finger in the game. -I sought him out and offered to stand by him;—he -knew me of old, as you know, and knew that -he could trust me; so he has sent me hither.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Impatiently.</i>] Yes yes,—he sent you hither -to——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With secrecy.</i>] Lady Inger—a stranger -comes to Östråt to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Surprised.</i>] What? Know you that——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_49'>49</span><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Assuredly I know it. I know all. ’Twas to -meet him that Peter Kanzler sent me hither.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To meet him? Impossible, Olaf Skaktavl,—impossible!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis as I tell you. If he be not already come, -he will soon——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Doubtless, doubtless; but——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then you knew of his coming?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, surely. He sent me a message. ’Twas -therefore they opened to you as soon as you -knocked.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Listens.</i>] Hush!—some one is riding along -the road. [<i>Goes to the window.</i>] They are -opening the gate.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks out.</i>] It is a knight and his attendant. -They are dismounting in the courtyard.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis he then. His name?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_50'>50</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You know not his name?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peter Kanzler refused to tell it me. He -would say no more than that I should find him -at Östråt the third evening after Martinmas——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay; even to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He was to bring letters with him; and from -them, and from you, I was to learn who he is.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then let me lead you to your chamber. You -have need of rest and refreshment. You shall -soon have speech with the stranger.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, be it as you will.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Both go out to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>After a short pause</i>, <span class='sc'>Finn</span> <i>enters cautiously -by the door on the right, looks -round the room, and peeps into the Banquet -Hall; he then goes back to the door, -and makes a sign to some one outside. -Immediately after, enter</i> <span class='sc'>Councillor -Nils Lykke</span> <i>and the Swedish Commander</i>, -<span class='sc'>Jens Bielke</span>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_51'>51</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] No one?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In the same tone.</i>] No one, master!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And we may depend on you in all things?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The commandant in Trondhiem has ever -given me a name for trustiness.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well; he has said as much to me. First -of all, then—has there come any stranger to -Östråt to-night, before us?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay; a stranger came an hour since.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, to</i> <span class='sc'>Jens Bielke</span>.] He is here. -[<i>Turns again to</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span>.] Would you know -him again? Have you seen him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, none has seen him, that I know, but -the gatekeeper. He was brought at once to -Lady Inger, and she——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well? What of her? He is not gone again -already?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_52'>52</span><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No; but it seems she holds him hidden in one -of her own rooms; for——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispers.</i>] Then the first thing is to put -a guard on the gate; so are we sure of him.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a smile.</i>] H’m! [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span>.] Tell -me—is there any way of leaving the castle, save -by the gate? Gape not at me so! I mean—can -one escape from Östråt unseen, though the -castle gate be barred?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, that I know not. ’Tis true they talk of -secret ways in the vaults beneath; but no one -knows them save Lady Inger—and mayhap Mistress -Elina.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The devil!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well. You may go.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Should you need me in aught again, you have -but to open the second door on the right in the -Banquet Hall, and I shall presently be at hand.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_53'>53</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Points to the entrance-door.</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span> <i>goes -out.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Now, by my soul, dear friend and brother—this -campaign is like to end but scurvily for both -of us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a smile.</i>] Oh—not for me, I hope.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Say you so? First of all, there is little honour -to be won in hunting an overgrown whelp -like this Nils Sture. Are we to think him mad -or in his sober senses after the pranks he has -played? First he breeds bad blood among the -peasants; promises them help and all their hearts -can desire;—and then, when it comes to the -pinch, off he runs to hide behind a petticoat!</p> - -<p class='c027'>Moreover, to say truth, I repent that I followed -your counsel and went not my own way.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Your repentance comes somewhat -late, my brother!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For, let me tell you, I have never loved digging -at a badger’s earth. I looked for quite -other sport. Here have I ridden all the way -from Jæmteland with my horsemen, and have -<span class='pageno' id='Page_54'>54</span>got me a warrant from the Trondhiem commandant -to search for the rebel wheresoever I please. -All his tracks point towards Östråt——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He is here! He is here, I tell you!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Were it not liker, in that case, that we had -found the gate barred and well guarded? -Would that we had; then could I have found -use for my men-at-arms——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But instead, the gate is very courteously -thrown open to us. Mark now—if Inger Gyldenlöve’s -fame belie her not, I warrant she will -not let her guests lack for either meat or drink.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, to turn us aside from our errand! And -what wild whim was that of yours to have me -leave my horsemen half a league from the -castle? Had we come in force——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>She had made us none the less welcome for -<em class='gesperrt'>that</em>. But mark well that then our coming -had made a stir. The peasants round about had -held it for an outrage against Lady Inger; she -had risen high in their favour once more—and -with that, look you, we were ill served.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_55'>55</span><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>May be so. But what am I to do now? -Count Sture is in Östråt, you say. Ay, but how -does that profit me? Be sure Lady Inger Gyldenlöve -has as many hiding-places as the fox, -and more than one outlet to them. You and I, -alone, may go snuffing about here as long as we -please. I would the devil had the whole affair!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, then, my friend—if you like not the -turn your errand has taken, you have but to -leave the field to me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To you? What will you do?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Caution and cunning may in this matter prove -of more avail than force of arms.—And to say -truth, Captain Jens Bielke—something of the -sort has been in my mind ever since we met in -Trondhiem yesterday.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Was that why you persuaded me to leave the -men-at-arms?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Both your purpose at Östråt and mine could -best be served without them; and so——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_56'>56</span><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The foul fiend seize you—I had almost said! -And me to boot! Might I not have known that -there is guile in all your dealings?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Be sure I shall need all my guile here, if I -am to face my foe with even weapons. And let -me tell you, ’tis of the utmost moment to me that -I acquit me of my mission secretly and well. -You must know that when I set forth I was -scarce in favour with my lord the King. He -held me in suspicion; though I dare swear -I have served him as well as any man could, in -more than one ticklish charge.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That you may safely boast. God and all men -know you for the craftiest devil in all the three -kingdoms.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I thank you! Though, after all, ’tis not much -to say. But this present errand I count as indeed -a crowning test of my powers; for here I -have to outwit a woman——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ha-ha-ha! In <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> art you have long since -given crowning proofs of your skill, dear -brother. Think you we in Sweden know not the -song— -<span class='pageno' id='Page_57'>57</span>Fair maidens a-many they sigh and they pine: -“Ah God, that Nils Lykke were mine, mine, -mine!”</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Alas, ’tis women of twenty and thereabouts -that ditty speaks of. Lady Inger Gyldenlöve -is nigh on fifty, and wily to boot beyond all -women. ’Twill be no light matter to overmatch -her. But it <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> be done—at any cost. -Should I contrive to win certain advantages over -her that the King has long desired, I can reckon -on the embassy to France next spring. You -know that I spent three years at the University -in Paris? My whole soul is set on coming -thither again, most of all if I can appear in -lofty place, a king’s ambassador.—Well, then—is -it agreed—do you leave Lady Inger to me? -Remember—when you were last at Court in -Copenhagen, I made way for you with more -than one fair lady——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, truly now—that generosity cost you little; -one and all of them were at your beck and -call. But let that pass; now that I have begun -amiss in this matter, I had as lief that you -should take it on your shoulders. Yet <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> -thing you must promise—if the young Count -Sture be in Östråt, you will deliver him into -my hands, dead or alive!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You shall have him all alive. I, at any rate, -mean not to kill him. But now you must ride -<span class='pageno' id='Page_58'>58</span>back and join your people. Keep guard on the -road. Should I mark aught that mislikes me, -you shall know it forthwith.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good, good. But how am I to get out——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The fellow that brought us in will show the -way. But go quietly——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Of course, of course. Well—good fortune to -you!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fortune has never failed me in a war with -women. Haste you now!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Jens Bielke</span> <i>goes out to the right.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Stands still for a while; then walks about the -room, looking round him; then he says softly:</i>] -At last, then, I am at Östråt—the ancient hall -whereof a child, two years ago, told me so much.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Lucia. Ay, two years ago she was still a -child. And now—now she is dead. [<i>Hums -with a half-smile.</i>] “Blossoms plucked are -blossoms withered——”</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Looks round him again.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Östråt. ’Tis as though I had seen it all before; -as though I were at home here.—In there -<span class='pageno' id='Page_59'>59</span>is the Banquet Hall. And underneath is—the -grave-vault. It must be there that Lucia lies.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>In a lower voice, half seriously, half with -forced gaiety.</i></p> -</div> -<p class='c027'>Were I timorous, I might well find myself -fancying that when I set foot within Östråt gate -she turned about in her coffin; as I crossed the -courtyard she lifted the lid; and when I named -her name but now, ’twas as though a voice summoned -her forth from the grave-vault.—Maybe -she is even now groping her way up the stairs. -The face-cloth blinds her, but she gropes on -and on in spite of it.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Now she has reached the Banquet Hall! She -stands watching me from behind the door!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Turns his head backwards over one shoulder, -nods, and says aloud:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Come nearer, Lucia! Talk to me a little! -Your mother keeps me waiting. ’Tis tedious -waiting—and you have helped me to while away -many a tedious hour——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Passes his hand over his forehead, and -takes one or two turns up and down.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, there!—Right, right; there is the deep -curtained window. ’Tis there that Inger Gyldenlöve -is wont to stand gazing out over the -road, as though looking for one that never -comes. In there—[<i>looks towards the door on -the left</i>]—somewhere in there is Sister Elina’s -chamber. Elina? Ay, Elina is her name.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Can it be that she is so rare a being—so wise -and so brave as Lucia fancied her? Fair, too, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_60'>60</span>they say. But for a wedded wife—? I should -not have written so plainly.——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Lost in thought, he is on the point of sitting -down by the table, but stands up -again.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How will Lady Inger receive me?—She will -scarce burn the castle over our heads, or slip -me through a trap-door. A stab from behind—? No, -not that way either——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Listens towards the hall.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Aha!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters from -the hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Coldly.</i>] My greeting to you, Sir Councillor——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Bows deeply.</i>] Ah—the Lady of Östråt!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——and my thanks that you have forewarned -me of your visit.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I could do no less. I had reason to think -that my coming might surprise you——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Truly, Sir Councillor, therein you judged -aright. Nils Lykke was indeed the last guest -I looked to see at Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_61'>61</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And still less, mayhap, did you think to see -him come as a friend?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As a friend? You add mockery to all the -shame and sorrow you have heaped upon my -house? After bringing my child to the grave, -you still dare——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>With your leave, Lady Inger Gyldenlöve—on -that matter we should scarce agree; for you -count as nothing what <i>I</i> lost by that same unhappy -chance. I purposed nought but in honour. -I was tired of my unbridled life; my thirtieth -year was already past; I longed to mate -me with a good and gentle wife. Add to all this -the hope of becoming your son-in-law——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Beware, Sir Councillor! I have done all in -my power to hide my child’s unhappy fate. -But because it is out of sight, think not it is -out of mind. There may yet come a time——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You threaten me, Lady Inger? I have offered -you my hand in amity; you refuse to take -it. Henceforth, then, it is to be open war between -us?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I knew not there had ever been aught else?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_62'>62</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not on <em class='gesperrt'>your</em> side, mayhap. <i>I</i> have never -been your enemy,—though, as a subject of the -King of Denmark, I lacked not good cause.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I understand you. I have not been pliant -enough. It has not proved so easy as some of -you hoped to lure me over into your camp.—Yet -methinks you have nought to complain of. -My daughter Merete’s husband is your countryman—further -I cannot go. My position is no -easy one, Nils Lykke!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That I can well believe. Both nobles and -people here in Norway think they have an ancient -claim on you—a claim, ’tis said, you have -but half fulfilled.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your pardon, Sir Councillor,—I account for -my doings to none but God and myself. If it -please you, then, let me understand what brings -you hither.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Gladly, Lady Inger! The purpose of my -mission to this country can scarce be unknown -to you——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know the mission that report assigns you. -Our King would fain know how the Norwegian -nobles stand affected towards him.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_63'>63</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Assuredly.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then that is why you visit Östråt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In part. But it is far from my purpose to -demand any profession of loyalty from you——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hearken to me, Lady Inger! You said yourself -but now that your position is no easy one. -You stand half way between two hostile camps, -whereof neither dares trust you fully. Your -own interest must needs bind you to <em class='gesperrt'>us</em>. On -the other hand, you are bound to the disaffected -by the bond of nationality, and—who knows?—mayhap -by some secret tie as well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] A secret tie! Oh God, can -he——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Notices her emotion, but makes no sign, and -continues without change of manner.</i>] You cannot -but see that such a position must ere long -become impossible.—Suppose, now, it lay in my -power to free you from these embarrassments -which——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_64'>64</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In your power, you say?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>First of all, Lady Inger, I would beg you to -lay no stress on any careless words I may have -used concerning that which lies between us two. -Think not that I have forgotten for a moment -the wrong I have done you. Suppose, now, I -had long purposed to make atonement, as far -as might be, where I had sinned. Suppose it -were for that reason I had contrived to have -this mission assigned me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Speak your meaning more clearly, Sir Councillor;—I -cannot follow you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I can scarce be mistaken in thinking that you, -as well as I, know of the threatened troubles in -Sweden. You know, or at least you can guess, -that this rising is of far wider aim than is commonly -supposed, and you understand therefore -that our King cannot look on quietly and let -things take their course. Am I not right?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Go on.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Searchingly, after a short pause.</i>] There is -<em class='gesperrt'>one</em> possible chance that might endanger Gustav -Vasa’s throne——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_65'>65</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Whither is he tending?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——the chance, namely, that there should -exist in Sweden a man entitled by his birth to -claim election to the kingship.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Evasively.</i>] The Swedish nobles have been -even as bloodily hewn down as our own, Sir -Councillor. Where would you seek for——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a smile.</i>] Seek? The man is found -already——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starts violently.</i>] Ah! He is found?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——and he is too closely akin to you, Lady -Inger, to be far from your thoughts at this -moment. [<i>Looks fixedly at her.</i></p> - -<p class='c027'>The last Count Sture left a son——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a cry.</i>] Holy Saviour, how know -you——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Surprised.</i>] Be calm, Madam, and let me -finish.—This young man has till now lived -quietly with his mother, Sten Sture’s widow.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_66'>66</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Breathes more freely.</i>] With—? Ah, yes—true, -true!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But now he has come forward openly. He -has shown himself in the Dales as leader of the -peasants; their numbers are growing day by -day; and—as mayhap you know—they are finding -friends among the peasants on this side of -the border-hills.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Who has in the meantime regained her composure.</i>]</div> - -<p class='c027'>Sir Councillor,—you speak of all these -matters as though they must of necessity be -known to me. What ground have I given you -to believe so? I know, and wish to know, nothing. -All my care is to live quietly within my -own domain; I give no countenance to disturbers -of the peace; but neither must you reckon -on me if it be your purpose to suppress them.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Would you still be inactive, -were it my purpose to come to their aid?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How am I to understand you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Have you not seen, then, whither I have been -aiming all this time?—Well, I will tell you all, -frankly and openly. Know, then, that the King -<span class='pageno' id='Page_67'>67</span>and his Council see clearly that we can have no -sure footing in Norway so long as the nobles -and the people continue, as now, to think themselves -wronged and oppressed. We understand -to the full that willing allies are better than sullen -subjects; and we have therefore no heartier -wish than to loosen the bonds that hamper us, -in effect, even as straitly as you. But you will -scarce deny that the temper of Norway towards -us makes such a step too dangerous—so long as -we have no sure support behind us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And this support——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Should naturally come from Sweden. But, -mark well, not so long as Gustav Vasa holds the -helm; his reckoning with Denmark is not yet -settled, and mayhap never will be. But a new -king of Sweden, who had the people with him, -and who owed his throne to the help of Denmark——. -Well, you begin to understand me? -<em class='gesperrt'>Then</em> we could safely say to you Norwegians: -“Take back your old ancestral rights; choose -you a ruler after your own mind; be our friends -in need, as we will be yours!”—Mark you well, -Lady Inger, herein is our generosity less than -it may seem; for you must see that, far from -weakening, ’twill rather strengthen us.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And now that I have opened my heart to you -so fully, do you too cast away all mistrust. -And therefore [<i>confidently</i>]—the knight from -Sweden, who came hither an hour before me——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_68'>68</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then you already know of his coming?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Most certainly. ’Tis he whom I seek.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Strange! Then it must be as -Olaf Skaktavl said. [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>.] I -pray you wait here, Sir Councillor! I will go -bring him to you.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out through the Banquet Hall.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks after her a while in exultant astonishment.</i>] -She is bringing him! Ay, truly—she -is bringing him! The battle is half won. I -little thought it would go so smoothly.—</p> - -<p class='c027'>She is deep in the counsels of the rebels; she -started in terror when I named Sten Sture’s -son.—</p> - -<p class='c027'>And now? H’m! Since Lady Inger has been -simple enough to walk into the snare, Nils Sture -will not make many difficulties. A hot-blooded -boy, thoughtless and rash——. With my promise -of help he will set forth at once—unhappily -Jens Bielke will snap him up by the way—and -the whole rising will be nipped in the bud.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And then? Then one further point to our -advantage. It is spread abroad that the young -Count Sture has been at Östråt,—that a Danish -envoy has had audience of Lady Inger—that -thereupon the young Count Nils has been -<span class='pageno' id='Page_69'>69</span>snapped up by King Gustav’s men-at-arms a -mile from the castle.——Let Inger Gyldenlöve’s -name among the people stand never so -high—’twill scarce recover from such a blow. -[<i>Starts up in sudden uneasiness.</i></p> - -<p class='c027'>By all the devils—! What if she has scented -mischief! It may be he is even now slipping -through our fingers—[<i>Listens towards the -hall, and says with relief.</i>] Ah, there is no -fear. Here they come.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters from -the hall, accompanied by</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavi</span>.</p> - -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>.] Here is the man you -seek.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Powers of hell—what means this?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have told this knight your name and all -that you have imparted to me——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Irresolutely.</i>] Ay? Have you so? Well——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——and I will not hide from you that his -faith in your help is none of the strongest.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is it not?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_70'>70</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Can you marvel at that? Surely you know -both his way of thinking and his bitter fate——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This man’s—? Ah—yes, truly——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>.] But seeing ’tis Peter -Kanzler himself that has appointed us this -meeting——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peter Kanzler—? [<i>Recovers himself quickly.</i>] -Ay, right,—I have a mission from Peter Kanzler——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He must know best whom he can trust. So -why should I trouble my head with pondering -how——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, you are right, noble Sir; why waste time -over that?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Rather let us come straight to the matter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Straight to the point; no beating about the -bush—’tis ever my fashion.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_71'>71</span><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then will you tell me your errand here?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Methinks you can partly guess my errand——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peter Kanzler said something of papers -that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Papers? Ay, true, the papers!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Doubtless you have them with you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Of course; safely bestowed; so safely that I -cannot at once——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Appears to search the inner pockets of his -doublet; says to himself:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who the devil is he? What pretext can I -make? I may be on the brink of great discoveries——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Notices that the</i> <span class='sc'>Servants</span> <i>are laying the -table and lighting the lamps in the Banquet -Hall, and says to</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span>:</p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, I see Lady Inger has taken order for the -evening meal. Mayhap we could better talk of -our affairs at table.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good; as you will.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_72'>72</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Time gained—all gained!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span> <i>with a show of great -friendliness:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And meanwhile we might learn what part -Lady Inger Gyldenlöve purposes to take in our -design?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I?—None.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke and Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>None!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Can ye marvel, noble Sirs, that I venture -not on a game wherein loss would mean loss of -all? And that, too, when none of my allies dare -trust me fully.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That reproach touches not me. I trust you -blindly; I pray you be assured of that.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who should believe in you, if not your countrymen?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Truly,—this confidence rejoices me.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes to a cupboard in the back wall and -fills two goblets with wine.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Curse her, will she slip out of the -noose?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_73'>73</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hands a goblet to each.</i>] And since so it -is, I offer you a cup of welcome to Östråt. -Drink, noble knights! Pledge me to the last -drop!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Looks from one to the other after they -have drunk, and says gravely</i>:</p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But now I must tell you—one goblet held a -welcome for my friend; the other—death for -my enemy!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Throws down the goblet.</i>] Ah, I am poisoned!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>At the same time, clutches his sword.</i>] -Death and hell, have you murdered me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span>, <i>pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils -Lykke</span>.] You see the Danes’ confidence in -Inger Gyldenlöve——</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>, <i>pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span>.] ——and -likewise my countrymen’s faith -in me! <span class='float-right'>[<i>To both of them.</i></span></p> - -<p class='c027'>Yet you would have me place myself in your -power? Gently, noble Sirs—gently! The Lady -of Östråt is not yet in her dotage.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters by the door on -the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I heard loud voices—. What is amiss?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_74'>74</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>.] My daughter Elina.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] Elina! I had not pictured her -thus.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Elina</span> <i>catches sight of</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>, <i>and -stands still, as in surprise, gazing at him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Touches her arm.</i>] My child—this knight -is——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Motions her mother back with her hand, still -looking intently at him, and says:</i>] There is no -need! I see who he is. He is Nils Lykke.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside, to</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span>.] How? Does she -know me? Can Lucia have—? Can she -know——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush! She knows nothing.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] I knew it;—even so must Nils -Lykke appear.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaches her.</i>] Yes, Elina Gyldenlöve,—you -have guessed aright. And as it seems -that, in some sense, you know me,—and, moreover, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_75'>75</span>as I am your mother’s guest,——you will -not deny me the flower-spray you wear in your -bosom. So long as it is fresh and fragrant, I -shall have in it an image of yourself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Proudly, but still gazing at him.</i>] Pardon -me, Sir Knight——’twas plucked in my own chamber, -and <em class='gesperrt'>there</em> can grow no flower for you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Loosening a spray of flowers that he wears -in the front of his doublet.</i>] At least you will -not disdain this humble gift. ’Twas a farewell -token from a courtly dame when I set forth -from Trondhiem this morning.——But mark me, -noble maiden,——were I to offer you a gift that -were fully worthy of you, it could be nought -less than a princely crown.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has taken the flowers passively.</i>] And -were it the royal crown of Denmark you held -forth to me——before I shared it with <em class='gesperrt'>you</em>, I -would crush it to pieces between my hands, and -cast the fragments at your feet!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Throws down the flowers at his feet, and -goes into the Banquet Hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Mutters to himself.</i>] Bold——as Inger Ottisdaughter -by Knut Alfson’s bier!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_76'>76</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, after looking alternately at</i> <span class='sc'>Elina</span> -<i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>.] The wolf <em class='gesperrt'>can</em> be tamed. -Now to forge the fetters.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Picks up the flowers and gazes in rapture -after</i> <span class='sc'>Elina</span>.] God’s holy blood, but she is -proud and fair!</p> - -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_77'>77</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT THIRD</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>The Banquet Hall. A high bow-window in the -background; a smaller window in front on -the left. Several doors on each side. The -ceiling is supported by massive wooden pillars, -on which, as well as on the walls, are -hung all sorts of weapons. Pictures of -saints, knights, and ladies hang in long -rows. Pendent from the ceiling a large -many-branched lamp, alight. In front, on -the right, an ancient carven high-seat. In -the middle of the hall, a table with the remnants -of the evening meal.</i></p> - -<p class='c029'><span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters from the left, slowly -and in deep thought. Her expression shows -that she is going over again in her mind -the scene with</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>. <i>At last she -repeats the motion with which she flung -away the flowers, and says in a low voice:</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——And then he gathered up the fragments -of the crown of Denmark—no, ’twas the flowers—and: -“God’s holy blood, but she is proud and -fair!”</p> - -<p class='c027'>Had he whispered the words in the most -secret spot, long leagues from Östråt,—still had -I heard them!</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_78'>78</span>How I hate him! How I have always hated -him,—this Nils Lykke!—There lives not another -man like him, ’tis said. He plays with -women—and treads them under his feet.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And ’twas to <em class='gesperrt'>him</em> my mother thought to offer -me!—How I hate him!</p> - -<p class='c027'>They say Nils Lykke is unlike all other men. -It is not true! There is nothing strange in him. -There are many, many like him! When Biörn -used to tell me his tales, all the princes looked -as Nils Lykke looks. When I sat lonely here -in the hall and dreamed my histories, and my -knights came and went,—they were one and all -even as he.</p> - -<p class='c027'>How strange and how good it is to hate! -Never have I known how sweet it can be—till -to-night. Ah—not to live a thousand years -would I sell the moments I have lived since I -saw him!—</p> - -<p class='c027'>“God’s holy blood, but she is proud——”</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes slowly towards the back, opens the -window and looks out.</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> -<i>comes in by the first door on the right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] “Sleep well at Östråt, Sir -Knight,” said Inger Gyldenlöve as she left me. -Sleep well? Ay, ’tis easily said, but——Out -there, sky and sea in tumult; below, in the -grave-vault, a young girl on her bier; the fate -of two kingdoms in my hand;—and in my breast -a withered flower that a woman has flung at my -feet. Truly, I fear me sleep will be slow of -coming.</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_79'>79</span></p><div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Notices</i> <span class='sc'>Elina</span>, <i>who has left the window, -and is going out on the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There she is. Her haughty eyes seem veiled -with thought.—Ah, if I but dared—. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Aloud.</i>]</span> -Mistress Elina!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Stops at the door.</i>] What will you? Why -do you pursue me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You err; I pursue you not$1 $2am myself -pursued.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>By a multitude of thoughts. Therefore ’tis -with sleep as with you:—it flees me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Go to the window, and there you will find -pastime;—a storm-tossed sea——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiles.</i>] A storm-tossed sea? That may I -find in you as well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, of that our first meeting has assured me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And that offends you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_80'>80</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, in nowise; yet I could wish to see you -of milder mood.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Proudly.</i>] Think you that you will ever -have your wish?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am sure of it. I have a welcome word to -say to you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What is it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Farewell.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes a step nearer him.</i>] Farewell? You -are leaving Östråt—so soon?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This very night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seems to hesitate for a moment; then says -coldly.</i>] Then take my greeting, Sir Knight!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Bows and is about to go.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Elina Gyldenlöve,—I have no right to keep -you here; but ’twill be unlike your nobleness if -you refuse to hear what I have to say to you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_81'>81</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I hear you, Sir Knight.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know you hate me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are keen-sighted, I perceive.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But I know, too, that I have fully merited -your hate. Unseemly and wounding were the -words I wrote of you in my letter to Lady -Inger.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Like enough; I have not read them.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But at least their purport is not unknown to -you; I know your mother has not left you in -ignorance of the matter; at the least she has -told you how I praised the lot of the man -who—; surely you know the hope I nursed—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Sir Knight—if ’tis of that you would speak—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I speak of it, only to ask pardon for my -words; for no other reason, I swear to you. If -my fame—as I have too much cause to fear—has -gone before me to Östråt, you must needs -know enough of my life not to wonder that in -<span class='pageno' id='Page_82'>82</span>such things I should go to work something boldly. -I have met many women, Elina Gyldenlöve; -but not one have I found unyielding. Such lessons, -look you, teach a man to be secure. He -loses the habit of roundabout ways——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>May be so. I know not of what metal those -women can have been made.</p> - -<p class='c027'>For the rest, you err in thinking ’twas your -letter to my mother that aroused my soul’s hatred -and bitterness against you. It is of older date.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Uneasily.</i>] Of older date? What mean -you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis as you guessed:—your fame has gone before -you, to Östråt, even as over all the land. -Nils Lykke’s name is never spoken save with -the name of some woman whom he has beguiled -and cast off. Some speak it in wrath, others -with laughter and wanton jeering at those weak-souled -creatures. But through the wrath and -the laughter and the jeers rings the song they -have made of you, full of insolent challenge, like -an enemy’s song of triumph.</p> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis all this together that has begotten my -hate for you. You were ever in my thoughts, -and ever I longed to meet you face to face, that -you might learn that there are women on whom -your subtle speeches are lost—if you should -think to use them.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_83'>83</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You judge me unjustly, if you judge from -what rumour has told of me. Even if there be -truth in all you have heard,—you know not the -causes behind it.—As a boy of seventeen I began -my course of pleasure. I have lived full -fifteen years since then. Light women granted -me all that I would—even before the wish had -shaped itself into a prayer; and what I offered -them they seized with eager hands. You are -the first woman that has flung back a gift of -mine with scorn at my feet.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Think not I reproach you. Rather I honour -you for it, as never before have I honoured -woman. But for this I reproach my fate—and -the thought is a gnawing pain to me—that you -and I were not sooner brought face to face.——Elina -Gyldenlöve! Your mother has told me -of you. While far from Östråt life ran its restless -course, you went your lonely way in silence, -living in your dreams and histories. Therefore -you will understand what I have to tell you.—Know, -then, that once I too lived even such a -life as yours. Methought that when I stepped -forth into the great world, a noble and stately -woman would come to meet me, and would -beckon to me and point out the path towards a -glorious goal.—I was deceived, Elina Gyldenlöve! -Women came to meet me; but <em class='gesperrt'>she</em> was -not among them. Ere yet I had come to full -manhood, I had learnt to despise them all.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Was it my fault? Why were not the others -even as you?—I know the fate of your fatherland -lies heavy on your soul; and you know the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_84'>84</span>part I have in these affairs——. ’Tis said of -me that I am false as the sea-foam. Mayhap I -am; but if I be, it is women who have made -me so. Had I sooner found what I sought,—had -I met a woman proud and noble and high-souled -even as you, then had my path been different -indeed. At this moment, maybe, I had -been standing at your side as the champion of -all that suffer wrong in Norway’s land. For -<em class='gesperrt'>this</em> I believe: a woman is the mightiest power -in the world, and in her hand it lies to guide -a man whither God Almighty would have him -go.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Can it be as he says? Nay, -nay; there is falsehood in his eyes and deceit -on his lips. And yet—no song is sweeter than -his words.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Coming closer, speaks low and more intimately.</i>] -As you have dwelt here at Östråt, -alone with your changeful thoughts, how often -have you felt your bosom stifling; how often -have the roof and walls seemed to shrink together -till they crushed your very soul. Then -have your longings taken wing with you; then -have you yearned to fly far from here, you knew -not whither.—How often have you not wandered -alone by the fiord; far out a ship has -sailed by in fair array, with knights and ladies -on her deck, with song and music of stringed -instruments;—a faint, far-off rumour of great -events has reached your ears;—and you have -felt a longing in your breast, an unconquerable -<span class='pageno' id='Page_85'>85</span>craving to know all that lies beyond the sea. -But you have not understood what ailed you. -At times you have thought it was the fate of -your fatherland that filled you with all these -restless broodings. You deceived yourself;—a -maiden so young as you has other food for -musing.——Elina Gyldenlöve! Have you -never had visions of an unknown power—a -strong mysterious might, that binds together the -destinies of mortals? When you dreamed of -the many-coloured life far out in the wide world—when -you dreamed of knightly jousts and -joyous festivals—saw you never in your dreams -a knight, who stood in the midst of the gayest -rout, with a smile on his lips and with bitterness -in his heart,—a knight that had once -dreamed a dream as fair as yours, of a woman -noble and stately, for whom he went ever a-seeking, -and ever in vain?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who are you, that have power to clothe my -most secret thoughts in words? How can you -tell me what I have borne in my inmost soul—yet -knew it not myself? How know you——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>All that I have told you, I have read in your -eyes.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Never has any man spoken to me as you have -spoken. I have understood you but dimly; and -yet—all, all seems changed since——</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_86'>86</span>[<i>To herself.</i>] Now I understand why they -said that Nils Lykke was unlike all others.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is one thing in the world that might -drive a man to madness, but to think of it; and -that is the thought of what might have been, -had things but fallen out in this way or that. -Had I met you on my path while the tree of my -life was yet green and budding, at this hour, -mayhap, you had been——</p> - -<p class='c027'>But forgive me, noble lady! Our speech of -these past few moments has made me forget -how we stand one to another. ’Twas as though -a secret voice had told me from the first that -to you I could speak openly, without flattery or -dissimulation.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That can you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well;—and it may be that this openness -has already in part reconciled us. Ay—my -hope is yet bolder. The time may yet come -when you will think of the stranger knight -without hate or bitterness in your soul. Nay,—mistake -me not! I mean not <em class='gesperrt'>now</em>—but some -time, in the days to come. And that this may -be the less hard for you—and as I have begun -once for all to speak to you plainly and openly -—let me tell you——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Sir Knight——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_87'>87</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling.</i>] Ah, I see the thought of my letter -still affrights you. Fear nought on that -score. I would from my heart it were unwritten, -for—I know ’twill concern you little -enough, so I may even say it right out—for I -love you not, and shall never come to love you. -Fear nothing, therefore, as I said before; I shall -in nowise seek to——</p> - -<p class='c027'>But what ails you——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Me? Nothing, nothing.—Tell me but one -thing: why do you still wear those flowers? -What would you with them?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>These? Are they not a gage of battle you -have thrown down to the wicked Nils Lykke, on -behalf of all womankind? What could I do but -take it up?</p> - -<p class='c027'>You asked what I would with them? [<i>Softly.</i>] -When I stand again amid the fair ladies of -Denmark—when the music of the strings is -hushed and there is silence in the hall—then -will I bring forth these flowers and tell a tale -of a young maiden sitting alone in a gloomy -black-beamed hall, far to the north in Norway——<span class='float-right'>[<i>Breaks off and bows respectfully.</i></span></p> - -<p class='c027'>But I fear I detain the noble daughter of the -house too long. We shall meet no more; for -before daybreak I shall be gone. So now I bid -you farewell.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_88'>88</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fare you well, Sir Knight! [<i>A short silence.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Again you are deep in thought, Elina Gyldenlöve! -Is it the fate of your fatherland that -weighs upon you still?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Shakes her head, absently gazing straight in -front of her.</i>] My fatherland?—I think not of -my fatherland.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then ’tis the strife and misery of the time -that disquiets you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The time? I had forgotten it——You -go to Denmark? Said you not so</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I go to Denmark.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Can I look towards Denmark from this hall?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Points to the window on the left.</i>] Ay, from -this window. Denmark lies there, to the south.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And is it far from here? More than a hundred -leagues?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_89'>89</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Much more. The sea lies between you and -Denmark.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] The sea? Thought has seagulls’ -wings. The sea cannot stay it.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks after her awhile; then says:</i>] If I -could but spare two days now—or even one—I -would have her in my power, even as the others.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And yet is there rare stuff in this maiden. -She is proud. Might I not after all——? No; -rather humble her——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Paces the room.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Verily, I believe she has set my blood afire. -Who would have thought it possible after all -these years?—Enough of this! I must get out -of the tangle I have here thrust myself into.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Sits in a chair on the right.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>What is the meaning of it? Both Olaf Skaktavl -and Inger Gyldenlöve seem blind to the mistrust -’twill waken, when ’tis rumoured that I am -in their league.—Or can Lady Inger have seen -through my purpose? Can she have seen that -all my promises were but designed to lure Nils -Sture forth from his hiding-place?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Springs up.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Damnation! Is it I that have been fooled? ’Tis -like enough that Count Sture is not at Östråt at -all. It may be the rumour of his flight was but -<span class='pageno' id='Page_90'>90</span>a feint. He may be safe and sound among his -friends in Sweden, while I——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Walks restlessly up and down.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>And to think I was so sure of success! If I -should effect nothing? If Lady Inger should -penetrate all my designs—and publish my discomfiture—-. -To be a laughing-stock both here -and in Denmark! To have sought to lure Lady -Inger into a trap—and given her cause the help -it most needed—strengthened her in the people’s -favour——! Ah, I could well-nigh sell myself -to the Evil One, would he but help me to lay -hands on Count Sture.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>The window in the background is pushed -open.</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span> <i>appears outside.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Clutches at his sword.</i>] Who is there?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Jumps down on to the floor.</i>] Ah; here I am -at last then!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] What means this?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God’s peace, master!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Thanks, good Sir! Methinks you have -chosen a strange way of entrance.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_91'>91</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, what the devil was I to do? The gate -was shut. Folk must sleep in this house like -bears at Yuletide.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God be thanked! Know you not that a good -conscience is the best pillow?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, it must be even so; for with all my rattling -and thundering, I——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——You won not in?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You have hit it. So I said to myself: As you -are bidden to be in Östråt to-night, if you have -to go through fire and water, you may surely -make free to creep through a window.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Ah, if it should be——!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Moves a step or two nearer.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Was it, then, of the last necessity that you -should reach Östråt to-night?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Was it? Ay, faith but it was. I love not to -keep folk waiting, I can tell you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_92'>92</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aha,—then Lady Inger Gyldenlöve looks for -your coming?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve? Nay, that I can -scarce say for certain; [<i>with a sly smile</i>] but -there might be some one else——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiles in answer.</i>] Ah, so there might be -some one else—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Tell me—are you of the house?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I? Well, in so far that I am Lady Inger’s -guest this evening.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A guest?—Is not to-night the third night -after Martinmas?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The third night after—? Ay, right enough.—Would -you seek the lady of the house at once? -I think she is not yet gone to rest. But might -not <em class='gesperrt'>you</em> sit down and rest awhile, dear young -Sir? See, here is yet a flagon of wine remaining, -and doubtless you will find some food. -Come, fall to; you will do wisely to refresh your -strength.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_93'>93</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are right, Sir; ’twere not amiss.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Sits down by the table and eats and drinks.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Both roast meat and sweet cakes! Why, you -live like lords here! When one has slept, as I -have, on the naked ground, and lived on bread -and water for four or five days——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at him with a smile.</i>] Ay, such a -life must be hard for one that is wont to sit at -the high-table in noble halls——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Noble halls——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But now can you take your ease at Östråt, as -long as it likes you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Pleased.</i>] Ay? Can I truly? Then I am -not to begone again so soon?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, that I know not. Sure you yourself can -best say that.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] Oh, the devil! [<i>Stretches himself -in the chair.</i>] Well, you see—’tis not yet certain. -I, for my part, were nothing loath to stay -quiet here awhile; but——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_94'>94</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——But you are not in all points your own -master? There be other duties and other affairs——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, that is just the rub. Were I to choose, -I would rest me at Östråt at least the winter -through; I have for the most part led a soldier’s -life, and——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Interrupts himself suddenly, fills a goblet, -and drinks.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your health, Sir!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A soldier’s life? H’m!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, what I would have said is this: I have -long been eager to see Lady Inger Gyldenlöve, -whose fame has spread so wide. She must be a -queenly woman,—is’t not so?——The one thing I -like not in her, is that she is so cursedly slow -to take open action.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Open action?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay, you understand me; I mean she is so -loath to take a hand in driving the foreign masters -out of the land.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_95'>95</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, there you are right. But if now you do -what you can, you will doubtless move her.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I? God knows ’twould but little serve if -<i>I</i>——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yet ’tis strange you should seek her here if -you have so little hope.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?—Tell me, know you Lady -Inger?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Surely; since I am her guest——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, but it in nowise follows that you know -her. I too am her guest, yet have I never seen -so much as her shadow.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yet did you speak of her——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——as all folk speak. Why should I not? -And besides, I have often enough heard from -Peter Kanzler——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Stops in confusion, and falls to eating -busily.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_96'>96</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You would have said——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Eating.</i>] I? Nay, ’tis all one.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Nils Lykke laughs.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why laugh you, Sir?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>At nothing, Sir!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Drinks.</i>] A pretty vintage ye have in this -house.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaches him confidentially.</i>] Listen—were -it not time now to throw off the mask?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling.</i>] The mask? Why, do as seems -best to you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then off with all disguise. You are known, -Count Sture!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Bursts out laughing.</i>] Count Sture? Do -you too take me for Count Sture?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Rises from the table.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>You mistake, Sir! I am not Count Sture.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_97'>97</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are not? Then who are you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My name is Nils Stensson.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at him with a smile.</i>] H’m! Nils -Stensson? But you are not Sten Sture’s son -Nils? The name chimes at least.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>True enough; but God knows what right I -have to bear it. My father I never knew; my -mother was a poor peasant-woman, that was -robbed and murdered in one of the old feuds. -Peter Kanzler chanced to be on the spot; he -took me into his care, brought me up, and taught -me the trade of arms. As you know, King Gustav -has been hunting him this many a year; and -I have followed him faithfully, wherever he -went.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peter Kanzler has taught you more than the -trade of arms, meseems.——Well, well; then -you are not Nils Sture. But at least you come -from Sweden. Peter Kanzler has sent you -hither to find a stranger, who——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Nods cunningly.</i>]——who is found already.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_98'>98</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Somewhat uncertain.</i>] And whom you do not -know?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As little as you know me; for I swear to you -by God himself: I am not Count Sture!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In sober earnest, Sir?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As truly as I live! Wherefore should I deny -it, if I were?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But where, then, is Count Sture?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Ay, <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> is just the secret.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispers.</i>] Which is known to you? Is’t -not so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Nods.</i>] And which I am to tell you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To tell me? Well then,—where is he?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span> <i>points upwards.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Up there? Lady Inger holds him hidden in -the loft-room?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_99'>99</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, nay; you mistake me.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Looks round cautiously.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Nils Sture is in Heaven!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Dead? And where?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In his mother’s castle,—three weeks since.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, you are deceiving me! ’Tis but five or six -days since he crossed the frontier into Norway.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, that was I.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But just before that the Count had appeared -in the Dales. The people, who were restless already, -broke out openly and would have chosen -him for king.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ha-ha-ha; that was me too!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will tell you how it came about. One day -Peter Kanzler called me to him and gave me to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_100'>100</span>know that great things were preparing. He -bade me set out for Norway and fare to Östråt, -where I must be on a certain fixed day——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Nods.</i>] The third night after Martinmas.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There I was to meet a stranger——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, right; I am he.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>From him I should learn what more I had -to do. Moreover, I was to let him know that the -Count was dead of a sudden, but that as yet ’twas -known to no one save to his mother the Countess, -together with Peter Kanzler and a few old -servants of the Stures.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I understand. The Count was the peasants’ -rallying-point. Were the tidings of his death -to spread, they would fall asunder,—and ’twould -all come to nought.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, maybe so; I know little of such matters.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But how came you to give yourself out for -the Count?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_101'>101</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How came I to——? Nay, what know I? -Many’s the mad prank I have hit on in my day. -And yet ’twas not I hit on it neither; for whereever -I appeared in the Dales, the people crowded -round me and hailed me as Count Sture. Deny -it as I pleased, ’twas wasted breath. The Count -had been there two years before, they said—and -the veriest child knew me again. Well, so be it, -thought I; never again will you be a Count in -this life; why not try what ’tis like for once?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well,—and what did you more?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I? I ate and drank and took my ease. The -only pity was that I had to take the road again -so soon. But when I set forth across the frontier—ha-ha-ha—I -promised them I would soon -be back with three or four thousand men—I -know not how many I said—and then we would -lay on in earnest.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you did not bethink you that you were -acting rashly?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, afterwards; but then, to be sure, ’twas -too late.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_102'>102</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I grieve for you, my young friend; but you -will soon come to feel the effects of your folly. -Let me tell you that you are pursued. A troop -of Swedish men-at-arms is out after you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>After me? Ha-ha-ha! Nay, that is rare! -And when they come and think they have Count -Sture in their clutches—ha-ha-ha!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Gravely.</i>]——Then ’tis all over with you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>All over——? But I am not Count Sture.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You have called the people to arms. You -have given seditious promises, and raised troubles -in the land.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, but ’twas only in jest!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>King Gustav will scarce take that view of the -affair.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Truly, there is something in what you say. -To think I could be so featherwitted——Well, -well, I’m not a dead man yet! You will protect -<span class='pageno' id='Page_103'>103</span>me; and besides—-the men-at-arms can -scarce be at my heels yet.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But what else have you to tell me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I? Nothing. When once I have given you -the packet——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Off his guard.</i>] The packet?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, sure you know——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, right, right; the papers from Peter Kanzler——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>See, here they all are.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Takes out a packet from inside his doublet, -and hands it to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Letters and papers for Olaf Skaktavl. <span class='float-right'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span>.</span></p> - -<p class='c027'>The packet is open, I see. ’Tis like you -know what it contains?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, good sir; I love not to read writing; and -for reason good.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_104'>104</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I understand; you have given most care to the -trade of arms.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sits down by the table on the right, and -runs through the papers.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aha! Here is light enough and to spare on -what is brewing.</p> - -<p class='c027'>This small letter tied with a silken thread—[<i>Examines -the address.</i>] This too for Olaf -Skaktavl. [<i>Opens the letter, and glances -through its contents.</i>] From Peter Kanzler. I -thought as much. [<i>Reads under his breath.</i>] -“I am hard bested, for—”; ay, sure enough; -here it stands,—“Young Count Sture has been -gathered to his fathers, even at the time fixed -for the revolt to break forth”—“—but all may -yet be made good—” What now? [<i>Reads on -in astonishment.</i>] “You must know, then, Olaf -Skaktavl, that the young man who brings you -this letter is a son of—” Heaven and earth—can -it be so?—Ay, by the cross of Christ, even -so ’tis written! [<i>Glances at</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span>] -Can he be—? Ah, if it were so! [<i>Reads on.</i>] -“I have nurtured him since he was a year old; -but up to this day I have ever refused to give -him back, trusting to have in him a sure hostage -for Inger Gyldenlöve’s faithfulness to us and to -our friends. Yet in that respect he has but little -availed us. You may marvel that I told you -not this secret when you were with me here of -late; therefore will I confess freely that I feared -you might seize upon him, even as I had done, -and to the same intent. But now, when you have -seen Lady Inger, and have doubtless assured -<span class='pageno' id='Page_105'>105</span>yourself how loath she is to have a hand in our -undertaking, you will see that ’tis wisest to give -her back her own as soon as may be. Well might -it come to pass that in her joy and security and -thankfulness—” —— “—that is now our last -hope.”</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sits for a while as though struck dumb -with surprise; then exclaims in a low -voice:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aha,—what a letter! Gold would not buy it!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis plain I have brought you weighty tidings. -Ay, ay,—Peter Kanzler has many irons -in the fire, folk say.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] What to do with all this? A -thousand paths are open to me—What if I -were—? No, ’twere to risk too much. But if—ah, -if I—? I will venture it!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Tears the letter across, crumples up the -pieces, and hides them inside his doublet; -puts back the other papers into the -packet, which he thrusts inside his belt; -rises and says:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A word, my young friend!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaching him.</i>] Well—your looks say -that the game goes bravely.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_106'>106</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, by my soul it does. You have given me -a hand of nought but court cards,—queens and -knaves——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But what of me, that have brought all these -good tidings? Have I nought more to do?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You? Ay, that have you. You belong to the -game. You are a king—and king of trumps too.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I a king? Oh, now I understand; you are -thinking of my exaltation——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your exaltation?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay; that which you foretold for me, if King -Gustav’s men got me in their clutches——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Makes a motion to indicate hanging.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>True enough;—but let that trouble you no -more. It now lies with yourself alone whether -within a month you shall have the hempen noose -or a chain of gold about your neck.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A chain of gold? And it lies with me?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> <i>nods.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_107'>107</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why then, the devil take doubting! Do you -but tell me what I am to do.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will. But first you must swear me a solemn -oath that no living creature in the wide world -shall know what I confide to you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is that all? You shall have ten oaths, if you -will.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not so lightly, young Sir! ’Tis no jesting -matter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, well; I am grave enough.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In the Dales you called yourself a Count’s -son;—is’t not so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay—begin you now on <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> again? Have -I not made free confession——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You mistake me. What you said in the Dales -was the truth.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The truth? What mean you by that? Tell -me but——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_108'>108</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>First your oath! The holiest, the most inviolable -you can swear.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That you shall have. Yonder on the wall -hangs the picture of the Holy Virgin——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The Holy Virgin has grown infirm of late. -Know you not what the monk of Wittenberg -maintains?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fie! how can you heed the monk of Wittenberg? -Peter Kanzler says he is a heretic.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, let us not dispute the matter. Here -can I show you a saint will serve full well to -make oath by.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Points to a picture hanging on one of the -panels.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Come hither,—swear that you will be silent till -I myself release your tongue—silent, as you -hope for Heaven’s salvation for yourself and for -the man whose picture hangs there.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaching the picture.</i>] I swear it—so -help me God’s holy word!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Falls back a step in amazement.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>But—Christ save me——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_109'>109</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What now?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The picture—! Sure ’tis I myself!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis old Sten Sture, even as he lived and -moved in his youthful years.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Sten Sture!—And the likeness—? And—said -you not I spoke the truth, when I called -myself a Count’s son? Was’t not so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So it was.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, I have it, I have it! I am——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are Sten Sture’s son, good Sir!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With the quiet of amazement.</i>] <i>I</i> Sten -Sture’s son!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>On the mother’s side too your blood is noble. -Peter Kanzler spoke not the truth, if he said -that a poor peasant woman was your mother.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_110'>110</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh strange! oh marvellous!—But can I believe——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You may believe all that I tell you. But remember, -all this will be merely your ruin, if -you should forget what you swore to me by your -father’s salvation.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Forget it? Nay, <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> you may be sure I -never shall.—But you, to whom I have given -my word,—tell me—who are you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My name is Nils Lykke.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Surprised.</i>] Nils Lykke? Surely not the -Danish Councillor?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Even so.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And it was you—? ’Tis strange. How come -you——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——to be receiving missives from Peter -Kanzler? You marvel at that?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I cannot deny it. He has ever named you as -our bitterest foe——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_111'>111</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And therefore you mistrust me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, not wholly that; but—well, the devil -take musing!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well said. Go but your own way, and you -are as sure of the halter as you are of a Count’s -title and a chain of gold if you trust to me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That will I. My hand upon it, dear Sir! -Do you but help me with good counsel as long as -there is need; when counsel gives place to blows, -I shall look to myself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well. Come with me now into yonder -chamber, and I will tell you how all these matters -stand, and what you have still to do.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out to the right.</i></div> - -<div class='c028'><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a glance at the picture.</i>] <i>I</i> Sten -Sture’s son! Oh, marvellous as a dream——!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out after</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_112'>112</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT FOURTH</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>The Banquet Hall, as before, but without the -supper-table.</i></p> - -<p class='c029'><span class='sc'>Biörn</span>, <i>the majordomo, enters carrying a lighted -branch-candlestick, and lighting in</i> <span class='sc'>Lady -Inger</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> <i>by the second -door on the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span> <i>has a bundle -of papers in her hand.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn.</span>] And you are sure my daughter -had speech with the knight, here in the hall?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Putting down the branch-candlestick on the -table on the left</i>.] Sure as may be. I met her -even as she stepped into the passage.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And she seemed greatly moved? Said you -not so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>She looked all pale and disturbed. I asked -if she were sick; she answered not, but said: -“Go to my mother and tell her the knight sets -forth from here ere daybreak; if she have letters -<span class='pageno' id='Page_113'>113</span>or messages for him, beg her not to delay him -needlessly.” And then she added somewhat -that I heard not rightly.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Did you not hear it at all?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It sounded to me as though she said:—“Almost -I fear he has already tarried too long at -Östråt.”</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And the knight? Where is he?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In his chamber belike, in the gate-wing.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well. What I have to send by him is -ready. Go to him and say I await him here in -the hall. [<span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>goes out to the right.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Know you, Lady Inger,—’tis true that in such -things I am blind as a mole; yet seems it to me -as though——h’m!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——as though Nils Lykke bore a mind to -your daughter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_114'>114</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then ’twould seem you are not so blind after -all; for I am the more deceived if you be not -right. Marked you not at the supper-board how -eagerly he listened to the least word I let fall -concerning Elina?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He forgot both food and drink.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And our secret affairs as well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, and what is more—the papers from Peter -Kanzler.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And from all this you conclude——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>From all this I chiefly conclude that, as you -know Nils Lykke and the name he bears, especially -in all that touches women——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——I should be right glad to know him outside -my gates?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay; and that as soon as may be.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_115'>115</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling.</i>] Nay—the case is just the contrary, -Olaf Skaktavl!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If things be as we both think, Nils Lykke -must in nowise depart from Östråt yet awhile.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at her with disapproval.</i>] Are you -again embarked on crooked courses, Lady -Inger? What guile are you now devising? -Something that may increase your own power -at the cost of our——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh this blindness, that makes you all do me -such wrong! I see well you think I purpose to -make Nils Lykke my daughter’s husband. Were -such a thought in my mind, why had I refused -to take part in what is afoot in Sweden, when -Nils Lykke and all the Danish crew seem willing -to support it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then if it be not your wish to win him and -bind him to you—what would you with him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_116'>116</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will tell you in few words. In a letter to -me, Nils Lykke has spoken of the high fortune -it were to be allied to our house; and I do not -say but, for a moment, I let myself think of the -matter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, see you!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To wed Nils Lykke to one of my house were -doubtless a great step toward stanching many -discords in our land.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Meseems your daughter Merete’s marriage -with Vinzents Lunge might have taught you -what comes of such a step. Scarce had my lord -gained firm footing among us, when he began -to make free with both our goods and our -rights——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know it even too well, Olaf Skaktavl! But -times there be when my thoughts are manifold -and strange. I cannot impart them fully either -to you or to any one else. Often I know not -the right course to choose. And yet—a second -time to make a Danish lord my son-in-law,—nought -but the uttermost need could drive me -to that resource; and heaven be praised—things -have not yet come to <em class='gesperrt'>that</em>!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_117'>117</span><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am no wiser than before, Lady Inger;—why -would you keep Nils Lykke at Östråt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Because I owe him an undying -hate. Nils Lykke has done me deadlier -wrong than any other man. I cannot tell you -wherein it lies; but never shall I rest till I am -avenged on him. See you not now? Say that -Nils Lykke were to love my daughter—as meseems -were like enough. I will persuade him -to tarry here; he shall learn to know Elina well. -She is both fair and wise.—Ah, if he should one -day come before me, with hot love in his heart, -to beg for her hand! Then—to chase him away -like a dog; to drive him off with jibes and -scorn; to make it known over all the land that -Nils Lykke had come a-wooing to Östråt in -vain—! I tell you I would give ten years of -my life but to see that day!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In faith and truth, Inger Gyldenlöve—is -<em class='gesperrt'>this</em> your purpose towards him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This and nought else, as sure as God lives! -Trust me, Olaf Skaktavl, I mean honestly by -my countrymen; but I am in nowise my own -mistress. Things there be that must be kept -hidden, or ’twere my death-blow. But let me -once be secure on <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> side, and you shall see -<span class='pageno' id='Page_118'>118</span>if I have forgotten the oath I swore by Knut -Alfson’s bier.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Shakes her by the hand.</i>] Thanks for those -words! I am loath indeed to think evil of you.—Yet, -touching your design towards this knight, -methinks ’tis a venturesome game you would -play. What if you had misreckoned? What if -your daughter—? ’Tis said no woman can -stand against this subtle devil.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My daughter? Think you that she—? Nay, -have no fear of that; I know Elina better. All -she has heard of his renown has but made her -hate him the more. You saw with your own -eyes——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, but—a woman’s mind is shifting ground -to build on. ’Twere best you looked well before -you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That will I, be sure; I will watch them narrowly. -But even were he to succeed in luring -her into his toils, I have but to whisper two -words in her ear, and——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——She will shrink from him as though he -came straight from the foul Tempter himself.</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_119'>119</span>Hist, Olaf Skaktavl! Here he comes. Now -be cautious.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> <i>enters by the foremost door -on the right.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span> <i>courteously.</i>] My -noble hostess has summoned me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have learned through my daughter that you -are minded to leave us to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Even so, to my sorrow;—since my business -at Östråt is over.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not before I have the papers.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>True, true. I had well-nigh forgot the -weightiest part of my errand. ’Twas the fault -of our noble hostess. With such gracious skill -did she keep her guests in talk at table——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That you no longer remembered what had -brought you hither? I rejoice to hear it; for -that was my design. Methought that if my -guest, Nils Lykke, were to feel at his ease in -Östråt, he must forget——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_120'>120</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What, lady?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——First of all his errand—and then all that -had gone before it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span>, <i>as he takes out the -packet and hands it to him.</i>] The papers from -Peter Kanzler. You will find in them a full -account of our partizans in Sweden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sits down by the table on the left, where -he opens the packet and examines its -contents.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And now, Lady Inger Gyldenlöve,—I know -not that there is aught else for me to do here.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Had it been things of state alone that brought -us together, you might be right. But I should -be loath to think so.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You would say——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I would say that ’twas not alone as a Danish -Councillor or as the ally of Peter Kanzler that -<span class='pageno' id='Page_121'>121</span>Nils Lykke came to be my guest.—Do I err in -fancying that somewhat you may have heard -down in Denmark may have made you curious -to know more of the Lady of Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Far be it from me to deny——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Turning over the papers.</i>] Strange. No -letter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——Lady Inger Gyldenlöve’s fame is all too -widely spread that I should not long have been -eager to see her face to face.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So I thought. But what, then, is an hour’s -jesting talk at the supper-table? Let us try -to sweep away all that has till now lain between -us; it may well come to pass that the Nils -Lykke I know may wipe out the grudge I bore -the one I knew not. Prolong your stay here -but a few days, Sir Councillor! I dare not persuade -Olaf Skaktavl thereto, since his secret -charge in Sweden calls him hence. But as for -you, doubtless your sagacity has placed all -things beforehand in such train that your presence -can scarce be needed. Trust me, your time -shall not pass tediously with us; at least you -will find both me and my daughter heartily disposed -to do all in our power to pleasure you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_122'>122</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I doubt neither your goodwill towards me nor -your daughter’s; of that I have had ample proof. -And I trust you will not doubt that my presence -elsewhere must be vitally needful, since, despite -of all, I must declare my longer stay at Östråt -impossible.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is it even so!—Know you, Sir Councillor, -were I evilly minded, I might fancy you had -come to Östråt to try a fall with me, and that, -having lost, you cared not to linger on the battlefield -among the witnesses of your defeat.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling.</i>] There might be some show of -reason for such a reading of the case; but sure -it is that as yet <i>I</i> hold not the battle lost.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>However that may be, it might at any rate -be retrieved, if you would tarry some days with -us. You see yourself, I am still halting and -wavering at the parting of the ways,—persuading -my redoubtable assailant not to quit the field.—Well, -to speak plainly, the thing is this: your -alliance with the disaffected in Sweden still -seems to me somewhat—how shall I call it?—somewhat -miraculous, Sir Councillor! I tell -you this frankly, dear Sir! The thought that -has moved the King’s Council to this secret step -is in truth most politic; but ’tis strangely at -variance with the deeds of certain of your countrymen -<span class='pageno' id='Page_123'>123</span>in bygone years. Be not offended, then, -if my trust in your fair promises needs to be -somewhat strengthened ere I can place my whole -welfare in your hands.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A longer stay at Östråt would scarce help -towards that end; since I purpose not to make -any further effort to shake your resolve.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then must I pity you from my heart. Ay, -Sir Councillor—’tis true I stand here an unfriended -widow; yet may you trust my word -when I foretell that this visit to Östråt will -strew your future path with thorns.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a smile.</i>] Is that your forecast, Lady -Inger?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Truly it is! What can one say, dear Sir? -’Tis an age of tattling tongues. Many a scurril -knave will make jeering rhymes at your expense. -Ere half a year is out, you will be all men’s -fable; people will stop and gaze after you on -the high roads; ’twill be: “Look, look; there -rides Sir Nils Lykke, that fared north to Östråt -to trap Inger Gyldenlöve, and was caught in his -own nets.”—Softly, softly, Sir Knight, why so -impatient! ’Tis not that <i>I</i> think so; I do but -forecast the thoughts of the malicious and evil-minded; -and of them, alas! there are many.— -<span class='pageno' id='Page_124'>124</span>Ay, ’tis shame; but so it is—you will reap -nought but mockery—mockery, because a woman -was craftier than you. “Like a cunning -fox,” men will say, “he crept into Östråt; like a -beaten hound he slunk away.”—And one thing -more: think you not that Peter Kanzler and his -friends will forswear your alliance, when ’tis -known that <i>I</i> venture not to fight under a standard -borne by you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You speak wisely, lady! Wherefore to secure -me from mockery—and not to endanger the alliance -with all our dear friends in Sweden—I -must needs——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hastily.</i>] ——prolong your stay at Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has been listening.</i>] He is in the trap!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, my noble lady;—I must needs bring you -to terms within this hour.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But what if you should fail?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I shall <em class='gesperrt'>not</em> fail.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_125'>125</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You lack not confidence, it seems.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What shall be the wager that you make not -common cause with myself and Peter Kanzler?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Östråt Castle against your knee-buckles!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Slaps his breast and cries:</i>] Olaf Skaktavl—here -stands the master of Östråt!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Sir Councillor——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises from the table.</i>] What now?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span>] I accept not the wager; -for in a moment you will gladly give Östråt -Castle, and more to boot, to be freed from the -snare wherein not I but you are tangled.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your jest, Sir, grows a vastly merry one.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twill be merrier yet—at least for me. You -boast that you have overreached me. You -<span class='pageno' id='Page_126'>126</span>threaten to heap on me all men’s scorn and mockery. -Ah, beware that you stir not up my vengefulness; -for with two words I can bring you to -your knees at my feet.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ha-ha——!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Stops suddenly, as if struck by a foreboding.</i></p> -</div> -<p class='c027'>And these two words, Nils Lykke?—these two -words——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——The secret of Sten Sture’s son and yours.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a shriek.</i>] Oh, God in heaven——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Inger Gyldenlöve’s son! What say you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Half kneeling to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span>] Mercy! oh, -be merciful——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Raises her up.</i>] Collect yourself, and let us -talk together calmly.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice, as though bewildered.</i>] Did -you hear it, Olaf Skaktavl? Or was it but a -dream? Heard you what he said?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_127'>127</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It was no dream, Lady Inger!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Clasping her hands.</i>] And you know it! -You,—you!—Where is he then? Where have -you got him? What would you do with him? -[<i>Screams.</i>] Do not kill him, Nils Lykke! -Give him back to me! Do not kill my child!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, I begin to understand——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And this fear—this torturing dread! Through -all these weary years it has been ever with me——and -then all fails at last, and I must bear -this agony!—Oh Lord my God, is it right of -thee? Was it for this thou gavest him to me?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Controls herself and says with forced composure:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nils Lykke—tell me <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> thing. Where have -you got him? Where is he?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>With his foster-father.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Still with his foster-father. Oh, that merciless -man—! For ever to deny me—. But it -<em class='gesperrt'>must</em> not go on thus! Help me, Olaf Skaktavl!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_128'>128</span><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There will be no need, if only you——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hearken, Sir Councillor! What you know -you shall know thoroughly. And you too, my -old and faithful friend!</p> - -<p class='c027'>Listen then. To-night you bade me call to -mind that fatal day when Knut Alfson was slain -at Oslo. You bade me remember the promise I -made as I stood by his corpse amid the bravest -men in Norway. I was scarce full-grown then; -but I felt God’s strength in me, and methought, -as many have thought since, that the Lord -himself had set his mark on me and chosen -me to fight in the forefront for my country’s -cause.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Was it pride of heart? Or was it a calling -from on high? That I have never clearly -known. But woe to whoso is charged with a -mighty task.</p> - -<p class='c027'>For seven years I fear not to say that I kept -my promise faithfully. I stood by my countrymen -in all their sufferings and their need. -Playmates of mine, all over the land, were wives -and mothers now. I alone could give ear to no -wooer—not to one. That you know best, Olaf -Skaktavl!</p> - -<p class='c027'>Then I saw Sten Sture for the first time. -Fairer man had never met my sight.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_129'>129</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, now it grows clear to me! Sten Sture -was then in Norway on a secret errand. We -Danes were not to know that he wished your -friends well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In the guise of a mean serving-man he lived -a whole winter under one roof with me.</p> - -<p class='c027'>That winter I thought less and less of the -country’s weal.——So fair a man had I never -seen—and I had lived well-nigh five-and-twenty -years.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Next autumn Sten Sture came once more; and -when he departed again he took with him, in all -secrecy, a little child. ’Twas not folk’s evil -tongues I feared; but our cause would have -suffered had it got abroad that Sten Sture stood -so near to me.</p> - -<p class='c027'>The child was given to Peter Kanzler to rear. -I waited for better times, that were soon to come. -They never came. Sten Sture took a wife two -years later in Sweden, and, when he died, he -left a widow——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——And with her a lawful heir to his name -and rights.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Time after time I wrote to Peter Kanzler beseeching -him to give me back my child. But -he was ever deaf to my prayers. “Cast in your -lot with us once for all,” he said, “and I send -your son back to Norway; not before.” But -<span class='pageno' id='Page_130'>130</span>’twas even that I dared not do. We of the disaffected -party were then ill regarded by many -timorous folk in the land. Had these learnt how -things stood—oh, I know it!—to cripple the -mother they had gladly meted to the child the -fate that would have been King Christiern’s had -he not saved himself by flight.<a id='r20' /><a href='#f20' class='c016'><sup>[20]</sup></a></p> - -<p class='c027'>But, besides that, the Danes, too, were active. -They spared neither threats nor promises to -force me to join them.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas but reason. The eyes of all men were -fixed on you as on the vane that should show -them how to shape their course.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then came Herlof Hyttefad’s rising. Do you -remember that time, Olaf Skaktavl? Was it -not as though a new spring had dawned over -the whole land! Mighty voices summoned me -to come forth;—yet I dared not. I stood doubting—far -from the strife—in my lonely castle. -At times it seemed as though the Lord God -himself were calling me; but then would come -the killing dread again to benumb my will. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_131'>131</span>“Who will win?”—<em class='gesperrt'>that</em> was the question that -was ever ringing in my ears.</p> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas but a short spring that had come to -Norway. Herlof Hyttefad, and many more with -him, were broken on the wheel during the -months that followed. None could call me to -account; yet there lacked not covert threats -from Denmark. What if they knew the secret? -At last methought they <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> know; I knew -not how else to understand their words.</p> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas even in that time of agony that Gyldenlöve, -the High Steward, came hither and -sought me in marriage. Let any mother anguished -for her child think herself in my place!—A -month after, I was the High Steward’s wife—and homeless -in the hearts of my countrymen.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Then came the quiet years. No one raised his -head any more. Our masters might grind us -down even as heavily as they listed. There -were times when I loathed myself; for what -had I to do? Nought but to endure terror and -scorn and bring forth daughters into the world. -My daughters! God must forgive me if I have -had no mother’s heart towards them. My wifely -duties were as serfdom to me; how then could -I love my daughters? Oh, how different with -my son! <em class='gesperrt'>He</em> was the child of my very soul. -He was the one thing that brought to mind the -time when I was a woman and nought but a -woman.—And him they had taken from me! He -was growing up among strangers, who might, -mayhap, be sowing in him the seed of corruption! -Olaf Skaktavl—had I wandered, like you, -on the lonely hills, hunted and forsaken, in winter -<span class='pageno' id='Page_132'>132</span>and storm—if I had but held my child in -my arms,—trust me, I had not sorrowed and -wept so sore as I have sorrowed and wept for -him from his birth even to this hour!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is my hand. I have judged you too -hardly, Lady Inger! Command me even as before; -I will obey.—Ay, by all the saints, I know -what it is to sorrow for a child.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yours was slain by men of blood. But what -is death to the restless terror of all these long -years?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Mark, then—’tis in your power to end this -terror. You have but to make peace between -the jarring factions, and neither will think of -seizing on your child as a pledge of your faith.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] This is the vengeance of -Heaven. [<i>Looks at him.</i>] In one word, what -do you demand?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I demand first that you shall call the people -of the northern districts to arms, in support of -the disaffected in Sweden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And next——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_133'>133</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——that you do your best to advance young -Count Sture’s ancestral claim to the throne of -Sweden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>His? You demand that I——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] It is the wish of many Swedes, -and ’twould serve our turn too.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You hesitate, lady? You tremble for your -son’s safety. What better can you wish than to -see his half-brother on the throne?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In thought.</i>] True—true——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at her sharply.</i>] Unless there be -other plans afoot——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Inger Gyldenlöve might have a mind to be—a -king’s mother.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, no! Give me back my child, and let who -will have the crowns.</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_134'>134</span>But know you so surely that Count Sture is -willing——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Of that he will himself assure you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Himself? And when?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Even now.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How now?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What say you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In one word, Count Sture is in Östråt.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Here?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> Lady Inger.] You have doubtless heard -that another rode through the gate along with -me? The Count was my attendant.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] I am in his power. I have no -longer any choice.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Looks at him and says:</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well, Sir Councillor—you shall have full -assurance of my support.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_135'>135</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In writing?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As you will.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes to the table on the left, sits down, -and takes writing materials from the -drawer.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside, standing by the table on the right.</i>] -At last, then, I win!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a moment’s thought, turns suddenly in -her chair to</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> <i>and whispers.</i>] -Olaf Skaktavl—I am certain of it now—Nils -Lykke is a traitor!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] What? You think——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He has treachery in his heart.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Lays the paper before her and dips the -pen in the ink.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And yet you would give him a written promise -that may be your ruin?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_136'>136</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush; leave me to act. Nay, wait and listen -first——[<i>Talks with him in a whisper.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, watching them.</i>] Ah, take counsel -together as much as ye list! All danger is over -now. With her written consent in my pocket, I -can denounce her whenever I please. A secret -message to Jens Bielke this very night—. I -tell him but the truth—that the young Count -Sture is not at Östråt. And then to-morrow, -when the road is open—to Trondhiem with my -young friend, and thence by ship to Copenhagen -with him as my prisoner. Once we have -him safe in the castle-tower, we can dictate to -Lady Inger what terms we will. And I—? -After this, methinks, the King will scarce place -the French mission in other hands than mine.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Still whispering to</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span>] Well, -you understand me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, fully. Let us make the venture, even as -you will. [<i>Goes out by the back, to the right.</i></p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span> <i>comes in by the first door -on the right, unseen by</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span>, <i>who -has begun to write.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Sir Knight,—Sir Knight!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_137'>137</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Moves towards him.</i>] Rash boy! What -would you here? Said I not you should wait -within until I called you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How could I? Now you have told me that -Inger Gyldenlöve is my mother, I thirst more -than ever to see her face to face——</p> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, it is she! How proud and high her mien! -Even thus did I ever picture her. Fear not, -dear Sir,—I shall do nought rashly. Since I -have learnt this secret, I feel, as it were, older -and wiser. I will no longer be wild and heedless; -I will be even as other well-born youths.—Tell -me,—knows she that I am here? Surely -you have prepared her?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, sure enough; but——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>——She will not own you for her son.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Will not own me? But she is my mother.—Oh, -if it be that she doubts <em class='gesperrt'>that</em>—[<i>takes out -a ring which he wears on a cord round his neck</i>]—show -her this ring. I have worn it since my -earliest childhood; she must surely know its -history.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_138'>138</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hide the ring, man! Hide it, I say!</p> - -<p class='c027'>You mistake me. Lady Inger doubts not at all -that you are her child; but—ay, look about you; -look at all this wealth; look at these mighty -forefathers and kinsmen whose pictures deck the -walls both high and low; look lastly at herself, -the haughty dame, used to bear sway as the first -noblewoman in the kingdom. Think you it can -be to her mind to take a poor ignorant youth -by the hand before all men’s eyes and say: Behold -my son!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, doubtless you are right. I am poor and -ignorant. I have nought to offer her in return -for what I crave. Oh, never have I felt my -poverty weigh on me till this hour! But tell me—what -think you I should do to win her favour? -Tell me, dear Sir; sure you must know!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You must win your father’s kingdom. But -until that may be, look well that you wound not -her ears by hinting at kinship or the like. She -will bear her as though she believed you to be -the real Count Sture, until you have made yourself -worthy to be called her son.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, but tell me——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush; hush!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_139'>139</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises and hands him a paper.</i>] Sir Knight—here -is my promise.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I thank you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Notices</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span>] Ah,—this young -man is——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, Lady Inger, he is Count Sture.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside, looks at him stealthily.</i>] Feature for -feature;—ay, by God,—it is Sten Sture’s son!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Approaches him and says with cold -courtesy:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I bid you welcome under my roof, Count! It -rests with you whether or not we shall bless this -meeting a year hence.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>With me? Oh, do but tell me what I must -do! Trust me, I have both courage and will——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Listens uneasily.</i>] What is this noise and -uproar, Lady Inger? There are people pressing -hitherward. What does this mean?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_140'>140</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a loud voice.</i>] ’Tis the spirits awaking!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl, Einar Huk, Biörn, -Finn</span>, <i>and a number of</i> <span class='sc'>Peasants</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Retainers</span> <i>come in from the back, on the -right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasants and Retainers.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hail to Lady Inger Gyldenlöve!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span>] Have you told them -what is afoot?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have told them all they need to know.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To the</i> <span class='sc'>Crowd.</span>] Ay, now, my faithful -house-folk and peasants, now must ye arm you -as best you can and will. That which earlier -to-night I forbade you, ye have now my fullest -leave to do. And here I present to you the -young Count Sture, the coming ruler of Sweden—and -Norway too, if God will it so.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Whole Crowd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hail to him! Hail to Count Sture!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>General excitement. The</i> <span class='sc'>Peasants</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Retainers</span> <i>choose out weapons and put -on breastplates and helmets, amid great -noise</i>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_141'>141</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly and uneasily.</i>] The spirits awaking, -she said? I but feigned to conjure up the devil -of revolt—’twere a cursed spite if he got the -upper hand of us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span>] Here I give you the -first earnest of our service—thirty mounted men, -to follow you as a bodyguard. Trust me—ere -you reach the frontier many hundreds will have -ranged themselves under my banner and yours. -Go, then, and God be with you!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Thanks,—Inger Gyldenlöve! Thanks—and -be sure you shall never have cause to shame you -for—for Count Sture! If you see me again, I -shall have won my father’s kingdom.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Ay, <em class='gesperrt'>if</em> she see you again!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The horses wait, good fellows! Are ye -ready——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay, ay!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Uneasily</i>, to <span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span>] What?, You -mean not to-night, even now——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_142'>142</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This very moment, Sir Knight!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, nay, impossible!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have said it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span>] Obey her not!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How can I do aught else? I <em class='gesperrt'>will</em>; I <em class='gesperrt'>must</em>!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But ’tis your certain ruin——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What then! <em class='gesperrt'>Her</em> must I obey in all -things——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With authority.</i>] And <em class='gesperrt'>me</em>?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I shall keep my word; be sure of that. The -secret shall not pass my lips till you yourself -release me. But she is my mother!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] And Jens Bielke in wait on the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_143'>143</span>road! Damnation! He will snatch the prize -out of my fingers——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - -<p class='c027'>Wait till to-morrow!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span>] Count Sture—do you -obey me or not?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>To horse!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes up towards the background.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] Unhappy boy! He knows not what -he does.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, since so it must be,—farewell!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Bows hastily, and begins to move away.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Lady Inger.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Detains him.</i>] Nay, stay! Not so, Sir -Knight,—not so!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Nils Lykke—you are a -traitor! Hush! Let no one see there is discord -in the camp of the leaders. You have won -Peter Kanzler’s trust by some devilish wile that -as yet is dark to me. You have forced me to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_144'>144</span>rebellious acts—not to help our cause, but to -further your own plots, whatever they may be. -I can draw back no more. But think not therefore -that you have conquered! I shall know -how to make you harmless——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Lays his hand involuntarily on his sword.</i>]</div> -<p class='c027'>Lady Inger!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Be calm, Sir Councillor! Your life is safe. -But you come not outside the gates of Östråt -before victory is ours.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Death and destruction!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It boots not to resist. You come not from -this place. So rest you quiet; ’tis your wisest -course.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Ah,—I am overreached. She -has been craftier than I. [<i>A thought strikes -him.</i>] But if I yet——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span>] Ride with Count -Sture’s troops to the frontier; then without pause -to Peter Kanzler, and bring me back my child. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_145'>145</span>Now has he no longer any plea for keeping from -me what is my own.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Adds, as</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> <i>is going:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Wait; a token—. He that wears Sten Sture’s -ring, he is my son.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>By all the saints, you shall have him!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Thanks,—thanks, my faithful friend!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span>, <i>whom he has beckoned to him unobserved, -and with whom he has been whispering.</i>] Good—now contrive to slip out. Let none -see you. The Swedes are in ambush half a -league hence. Tell the commander that Count -Sture is dead. The young man you see there -must on no account be touched. Tell the commander -so. Tell him the boy’s life is worth -thousands to me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It shall be done.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has meanwhile been watching</i> <span class='sc'>Nils -Lykke.</span>] And now go, all of you, and God be -with you! [<i>Points to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span>] This noble -knight cannot find it in his heart to leave his -friends at Östråt so hastily. He will abide here -with me till the tidings of your victory arrive.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_146'>146</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Devil!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seizes his hand.</i>] Trust me—you shall not -have long to wait!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It is well; it is well! [<i>Aside.</i>] All may yet -be saved. If only my message reach Jens -Bielke in time——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Einar Huk</span>, <i>the bailiff, pointing to</i> -<span class='sc'>Finn.</span>] And let <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> man be placed under -close guard in the castle dungeon.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Finn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Bailiff and the Servants.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Finn!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] My last anchor gone!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Imperatively.</i>] To the dungeon with him!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Einar Huk, Biörn</span>, <i>and a couple of the -house-servants lead</i> <span class='sc'>Finn</span> <i>out to the left</i>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_147'>147</span><span class='sc'>All the Rest.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Except</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span>, <i>rushing out to the -right.</i>] Away! To horse,—to horse! Hail to -Lady Inger Gyldenlöve!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Passing close to</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> <i>as she goes out -after the others.</i>] Who wins?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Remains alone.</i>] Who? Ay, woe to you;—your -victory will cost you dear. <i>I</i> wash my -hands of it. ’Tis not <i>I</i> that am murdering him.</p> - -<p class='c027'>But my prey is escaping me none the less; -and the revolt will grow and spread!—Ah, ’tis -a foolhardy, a frantic game I have here taken -in hand!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Listens at the window.</i>.</div> - -<p class='c027'>There they ride clattering out through the gateway.—Now -’tis closed after them—and I am -left here a prisoner.</p> - -<p class='c027'>No way of escape! Within half-an-hour the -Swedes will be upon him. He has thirty well-armed -horsemen with him. ’Twill be life or -death.</p> - -<p class='c027'>But if, after all, they should take him alive?—Were -I but free, I could overtake the Swedes -ere they reach the frontier, and make them deliver -him up. [<i>Goes towards the window in the -background and looks out.</i>] Damnation! -Guards outside on every hand. Can there be -no way of escape?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Comes quickly forward again; suddenly -stops and listens.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_148'>148</span>What is that? Music and singing. It seems -to come from Elina’s chamber. Ay, ’tis she that -is singing. Then she is still awake——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>A thought seems to strike him.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Elina!—Ah, if <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> could be! Were it possible -to—And why should I not? Am I not still -myself? Says not the song:—</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fair maidens a-many they sigh and they pine:</div> - <div class='line'>“Ah God, that Nils Lykke were mine, mine, mine.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'>And she—? ——Elina Gyldenlöve shall set -me free!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes quickly but stealthily towards the -first door on the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_149'>149</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT FIFTH</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c024'><i>The Banquet Hall. It is still night. The hall -is but dimly lighted by a branch-candlestick -on the table, in front, on the right.</i></p> -<p class='c025'><span class='sc'>Lady Inger</span> <i>is sitting by the table, deep in -thought.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a pause.</i>] They call me keen-witted -beyond all others in the land. I believe they -are right. The keenest-witted—No one knows -how I became so. For more than twenty years -I have fought to save my child. <em class='gesperrt'>That</em> is the -key to the riddle. Ay, that sharpens the wits!</p> - -<p class='c027'>My wits? Where have they flown to-night? -What has become of my forethought? There -is a ringing and rushing in my ears. I see -shapes before me, so lifelike that methinks I -could lay hold on them.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Springs up.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Lord Jesus—what is this? Am I no longer mistress -of my reason? Is it to come to that——?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Presses her clasped hands over her head; -sits down again, and says more calmly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, ’tis nought. ’Twill pass. There is no -fear;—it will pass.</p> - -<p class='c027'>How peaceful it is in the hall to-night! No -<span class='pageno' id='Page_150'>150</span>threatening looks from forefathers or kinsfolk. -No need to turn their faces to the wall.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Rises again.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ’twas well that I took heart at last. We -shall conquer;—and then am I at the goal of -all my longings. I shall have my child again.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Takes up the light as if to go, but stops -and says musingly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>At the goal? The goal? To have him back? -Is that all?—is there nought further?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Sets the light down on the table.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>That heedless word that Nils Lykke threw forth -at random—. How could he see my unborn -thought?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>More softly.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>A king’s mother? A king’s mother, he said—And -why not? Have not my fathers before me -ruled as kings, even though they bore not the -kingly name? Has not <em class='gesperrt'>my</em> son as good a title -as the other to the rights of the house of Sture? -In the sight of God he has—if so be there is -justice in Heaven.</p> - -<p class='c027'>And in an hour of terror I have signed away -his rights. I have recklessly squandered them, -as a ransom for his freedom.</p> - -<p class='c027'>If they could be recovered?—Would Heaven -be angered, if I—? Would it call down fresh -troubles on my head if I were to—? Who -knows;—who knows! It may be safest to refrain. -[<i>Takes up the light again.</i>] I shall -have my child again. <em class='gesperrt'>That</em> must content me. -I will try to rest. All these desperate thoughts,—I -will sleep them away.</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_151'>151</span></p><div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes towards the back, but stops in the -middle of the hall, and says broodingly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A king’s mother!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes slowly out at the back, to the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>After a short pause, <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> and -<span class='sc'>Elina Gyldenlöve</span> enter noiselessly by -the first door on the left. <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke</span> -has a small lantern in his hand.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Throws the light from his lantern around, -so as to search the room.</i>] All is still. I must -begone.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, let me look but once more into your eyes, -before you leave me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Embraces her.</i>] Elina!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a short pause.</i>] Will you come nevermore -to Östråt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How can you doubt that I will come? Are -you not henceforth my betrothed?—But will -<em class='gesperrt'>you</em> be true to <em class='gesperrt'>me</em>, Elina? Will you not forget -me ere we meet again?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do you ask if I <em class='gesperrt'>will</em> be true? Have I any -will left then? Have I power to be untrue to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_152'>152</span>you, even if I would?—You came by night; you -knocked upon my door;—and I opened to you. -You spoke to me. What was it you said? You -gazed in my eyes. What was the mystic might -that turned my brain, and lured me as into a -magic net? [<i>Hides her face on his shoulder.</i>] -Oh, look not on me, Nils Lykke! You must -not look upon me after this—True, say you? -Do you not own me? I am yours;—I <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> -be yours—to all eternity.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Now, by my knightly honour, ere the year be -past, you shall sit as my wife in the hall of my -fathers!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No vows, Nils Lykke! No oaths to me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What ails you? Why do you shake your head -so mournfully?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Because I know that the same soft words -wherewith you turned my brain, you have whispered -to so many a one before. Nay, nay, be -not angry, my beloved! In nowise do I reproach -you, as I did while yet I knew you not. Now -I understand how high above all others is your -goal. How can love be aught to <em class='gesperrt'>you</em> but a -pastime, or woman but a toy?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Elina,—hear me!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_153'>153</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As I grew up, your name was ever in my ears. -I hated the name, for meseemed that all women -were dishonoured by your life. And yet,—how -strange!—when I built up in my dreams the -life that should be mine, you were ever my hero, -though I knew it not. Now I understand it all. -What was it that I felt? It was a foreboding, -a mysterious longing for you, you only one—for -you that were one day to come and reveal -to me all the glory of life.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside, putting down the lantern on the -table.</i>] How is it with me? This dizzy fascination—. -If this it be to love, then have I never -known it till this hour.—Is there not yet time—? -Oh horror—Lucia! <span class='float-right'>[<i>Sinks into the chair.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What is amiss with you? So heavy a sigh——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>O, ’tis nought,—nought!</p> - -<p class='c027'>Elina,—now will I confess all to you. I have -beguiled many with both words and glances; I -have said to many a one what I whispered to you -this night. But trust me——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush! No more of that. My love is no exchange -for that you give me. No, no; I love -you because your every glance commands it like -a king’s decree. [<i>Lies down at his feet.</i> -<span class='pageno' id='Page_154'>154</span>Oh, let me once more stamp that kingly mandate -deep into my soul, though well I know it -stands imprinted there for all time and eternity.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Dear God—how little I have known myself! -’Twas but to-night I said to my mother: “My -pride is my life.” And what is now my pride? -Is it to know my countrymen free, or my house -held in honour throughout many lands? Oh, -no, no! My love is my pride. The little dog -is proud when he may sit by his master’s feet -and eat bread-crumbs from his hand. Even so -am I proud, so long as I may sit at your feet, -while your looks and your words nourish me -with the bread of life. See, therefore, I say to -you, even as I said but now to my mother: “My -love is my life;” for therein lies all my pride, -now and evermore.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Raises her up on his lap.</i>] Nay, nay—not -at my feet, but at my side is your place,—how -high soever fate may exalt me. Ay, Elina—you -have led me into a better path; and should it one -day be granted me to atone by a deed of fame -for the sins of my reckless youth, then shall the -honour be yours and mine together.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, you speak as though I were still that -Elina who but this evening flung down the -flowers at your feet.</p> - -<p class='c027'>I have read in my books of the many-coloured -life in far-off lands. To the winding of horns, -the knight rides forth into the greenwood, with -<span class='pageno' id='Page_155'>155</span>his falcon on his wrist. Even so do you go your -way through life;—your name rings out before -you whithersoever you fare.—All that <i>I</i> desire -of the glory, is to rest like the falcon on your -arm. Like him was I, too, blind to light and -life, till you loosed the hood from my eyes and -set me soaring high over the tree-tops.—But -trust me—bold as my flight may be, yet shall I -ever turn back to my cage.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rises.</i>] Then will I bid defiance to the -past! See now;—take this ring, and be <em class='gesperrt'>mine</em> -before God and men—<em class='gesperrt'>mine</em>,—ay, though it -should trouble the dreams of the dead.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You make me tremble. What is it that——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis nought. Come, let me place the ring on -your finger.—Even so—now are you my betrothed!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><i>I</i> Nils Lykke’s bride! It seems but a dream, -all that has befallen this night. Oh, but so fair -a dream! My breast is so light. No longer is -there bitterness and hatred in my soul. I will -atone to all whom I have wronged. I have been -unloving to my mother. To-morrow will I go -to her; she must forgive me where I have erred.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And give her consent to our bond.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_156'>156</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That will she. Oh, I am sure she will. My -mother is kind; all the world is kind;—I can -no longer feel hatred for any living soul—save -<em class='gesperrt'>one</em>.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Save <em class='gesperrt'>one</em>?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, ’tis a mournful history. I had a sister——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Lucia?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Did you know Lucia?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, no; I have but heard her name.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>She too gave her heart to a knight. He betrayed -her;—now she is in Heaven.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I hate him.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hate him not! If there be mercy in your -heart, forgive him his sin. Trust me, he bears -his punishment in his own breast.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_157'>157</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Him will I never forgive! I <em class='gesperrt'>cannot</em>, even -if I would; for I have sworn so dear an oath——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Listening.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush! Can you hear——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What? Where?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Without; far off. The noise of many horsemen -on the high-road.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, ’tis <em class='gesperrt'>they</em>! And I had forgotten—! -They are coming hither. Then is the danger -great! I must begone!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But whither? Oh, Nils Lykke, what are you -hiding——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Tomorrow, Elina—; for as God lives, I will -return tomorrow.—Quickly now—where is the -secret passage whereof you told me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Through the grave-vault. See,—here is the -trap-door——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The grave-vault! [<i>To himself.</i>] No matter, -he <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> be saved!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_158'>158</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>By the window.</i>] The horsemen have reached -the gate—— <span class='float-right'>[<i>Hands him the lantern.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, then—— <span class='float-right'>[<i>Begins to descend.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Go forward along the passage till you reach -the coffin with the death’s-head and the black -cross; it is Lucia’s——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Climbs back hastily and shuts the trapdoor.</i>] -Lucia’s! Pah——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What said you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, nothing. ’Twas the air of the graves -that made me dizzy.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hark; they are hammering at the gate!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Lets the lantern fall.</i>] Ah! too late——!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>enters hurriedly from the right, -carrying a light.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Goes towards him.</i>] What is amiss, Biörn? -What is it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_159'>159</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>An ambuscade! Count Sture——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Count Sture? What of him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Have they killed him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To Elina.</i>] Where is your mother?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Two Retainers.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rushing in from the right.</i>] Lady Inger! -Lady Inger!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Lady Inger Gyldenlöve</span> <i>enters by the -furthest back door on the left, with a -branch-candlestick, lighted, in her hand, -and says quickly:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know all. Down with you to the courtyard! -Keep the gate open for our friends, but closed -against all others!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Puts down the candlestick on the table to -the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>and the two</i> <span class='sc'>Retainers</span> -<i>go out again to the right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span>] So <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> was the trap, -Sir Councillor!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_160'>160</span><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Inger Gyldenlöve, believe me——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>An ambuscade that was to snap him up as -soon as you had secured the promise that should -destroy me!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Takes out the paper and tears it to pieces.</i>] -There is your promise. I keep nothing that can -bear witness against you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What is this?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>From this hour will I put your thoughts of -me to shame. If I have sinned against you,—by -Heaven I will strive to repair my crime. But -now I <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> out, if I have to hew my way -through the gate!—Elina—tell your mother all!—And -you, Lady Inger, let our reckoning be -forgotten! Be generous—and silent! Trust -me, ere dawn of day you shall owe me a life’s -gratitude. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Goes out quickly to the right.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks after him with exultation.</i>] ’Tis well! -I understand him.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Turns to</i> <span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - -<p class='c027'>Nils Lykke—? Well——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_161'>161</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He knocked upon my door, and set this ring -upon my finger.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And from his soul he holds you dear?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He has said so, and I believe him.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Bravely done, Elina! Ha-ha, Sir Knight, -now is it my turn!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My mother—you are so strange. Ah, yes—I -know—’tis my unloving ways that have angered -you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Not so, dear Elina! You are an obedient -child. You have opened your door to him; you -have hearkened to his soft words. I know full -well what it must have cost you; for I know -your hatred——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But, my mother——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush! We have played into each other’s -hands. What wiles did you use, my subtle -daughter? I saw the love shine out of his eyes. -Hold him fast now! Draw the net closer and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_162'>162</span>closer about him; and then—Ah, Elina, if we -could but rend asunder his perjured heart within -his breast!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Woe is me—what is it you say?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Let not your courage fail you. Hearken to -me. I know a word that will keep you firm. -Know then— [<i>Listening.</i>] They are fighting -before the gate. Courage! Now comes the -pinch! [<i>Turns again to</i> <span class='sc'>Elina.</span>] Know then: -Nils Lykke was the man that brought your sister -to her grave.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a shriek.</i>] Lucia!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He it was, as truly as there is an Avenger -above us!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then Heaven be with me!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Appalled.</i>] Elina——?!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am his bride in the sight of God.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Unhappy child,—what have you done?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_163'>163</span><span class='sc'>Elina.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a toneless voice.</i>] Made shipwreck of -my soul.—Good-night, my mother!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>She goes out to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ha-ha-ha! It goes down-hill apace with -Inger Gyldenlöve’s house. <em class='gesperrt'>There</em> went the -last of my daughters.</p> - -<p class='c027'>Why could I not keep silence? Had she -known nought, it may be she had been happy—after -a kind.</p> - -<p class='c027'>It <em class='gesperrt'>was</em> to be so. It is written up yonder in -the stars that I am to break off one green -branch after another till the trunk stand leafless -at last.</p> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well, ’tis well! I shall have my son -again. Of the others, of my daughters, I will -not think.</p> - -<p class='c027'>My reckoning? To face my reckoning?—It -falls not due till the last great day of wrath.—<em class='gesperrt'>That</em> -comes not yet awhile.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calling from outside on the right.</i>] Ho—shut -the gate!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Count Sture’s voice——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rushes in, unarmed, and with his clothes -torn, and shouts with a laugh of desperation.</i>] -Well met again, Inger Gyldenlöve!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_164'>164</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What have you lost?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My kingdom and my life!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And the peasants? My servants?—where are -they?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You will find the carcasses along the highway. -Who has the rest, I cannot tell you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Outside on the right.</i>] Count Sture! Where -are you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Here, here!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> <i>comes in with his right -hand wrapped in a clout.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Alas, Olaf Skaktavl, you too——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas impossible to break through.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are wounded, I see!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A finger the less; that is all.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_165'>165</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Where are the Swedes?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>At our heels. They are breaking open the -gate——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, God! No, no! I <em class='gesperrt'>cannot</em>—I <em class='gesperrt'>will</em> not -die.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A hiding-place, Lady Inger! Is there no corner -where we can hide him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But if they search the castle——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay; they will find me! And then to be -dragged away to prison, or be strung up——! -No, no, Inger Gyldenlöve,—I know full well,—you -will never suffer that to be!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Listening.</i>] There burst the lock.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>At the window.</i>] Many men rush in at the -gateway.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And to lose my life <em class='gesperrt'>now</em>! Now, when my -true life was but beginning! Now, when I have -so lately learnt that I have aught to live for. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_166'>166</span>No, no, no!—Think not I am a coward, Inger -Gyldenlöve! Might I but have time to -show——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I hear them now in the hall below.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Firmly to</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - -<p class='c027'>He <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> be saved—cost what it will!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seizes her hand.</i>] Oh, I knew it;—you are -noble and good!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But how? Since we cannot hide him——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah, I have it! I have it! The secret——!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The secret?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Even so; yours and mine!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Merciful Heaven—you know it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>From first to last. And now when ’tis life or -death—Where is Nils Lykke?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fled.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_167'>167</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Fled? Then God help me; for he alone can -unseal my lips.—But what is a promise against -a life! When the Swedish captain comes——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What then? What will you do?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Purchase life and freedom;—tell him all.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh no, no;—be merciful!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nought else can save me. When I have told -him what I know——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at him with suppressed agitation.</i>] -You will be safe?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, safe! Nils Lykke will speak for me. -You see, ’tis the last resource.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Composedly, with emphasis.</i>] The last resource? -Right, right—the last resource all are -free to try. [<i>Points to the left.</i>] See, meanwhile -you can hide in there.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_168'>168</span><span class='sc'>Nils Stensson.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice.</i>] Trust me—you will never -repent of this.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Half to herself.</i>] God grant that you speak -the truth!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span> <i>goes out hastily by the -furthest door on the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> -<i>is following; but Lady Inger detains -him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Did you understand his meaning?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The dastard! He would betray your secret. -He would sacrifice your son to save himself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>When life is at stake, he said, we must try -the last resource.—’Tis well, Olaf Skaktavl,—let -it be as he has said!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Life against life! One of them must perish.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah—you would——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_169'>169</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If we close not the lips of him that is within -ere he come to speech with the Swedish captain, -then is my son lost to me. But if, on the other -hand, he be swept from my path, when the time -comes I can claim all his rights for my own -child. Then shall you see that Inger Ottis’ -daughter has metal in her yet. Of this be assured—you -shall not have long to wait for the -vengeance you have thirsted after for twenty -years.—Hark! They are coming up the stairs! -Olaf Skaktavl,—it lies with you whether tomorrow -I shall be no more than a childless -woman, or ——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So be it! I have yet one sound hand left.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Gives her his hand.</i>] Inger Gyldenlöve—your -name shall not die out through me.</p> - -<div class='c028'><i>Follows</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Stensson</span> <i>into the inner room.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Pale and trembling.</i>] But dare I——?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A noise is heard in the room; she rushes -with a scream towards the door.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, no,—it must not be!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A heavy fall is heard within; she covers -her ears with her hands and hurries back -across the hall with a wild look. After -a pause she takes her hands cautiously -away, listens again, and says softly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Now it is over. All is still within——</p> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_170'>170</span>Thou sawest it, God—I repented me! But -Olaf Skaktavl was too swift of hand.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl</span> <i>comes silently into the hall.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a pause, without looking at him.</i>] Is -it done?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You need fear him no more; he will betray no -one.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As before.</i>] Then he is dumb?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Six inches of steel in his breast. I felled him -with my left hand.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay—the right was too good for such work.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Olaf Skaktavl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is your affair;—the thought was yours.—And -now to Sweden! Peace be with you -meanwhile! When next we meet at Östråt, I -shall bring another with me.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes out by the furthest door on the right.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Blood on my hands. Then ’twas to come to -that!—He begins to be dear-bought now.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>comes in, with a number of Swedish</i> -<span class='sc'>Men-at-Arms</span>, <i>by the first door on -the right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_171'>171</span><span class='sc'>One of the Men-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Pardon, if you are the lady of the house——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is it Count Sture ye seek?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The same.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then you are on the right track. The Count -has sought refuge with me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Refuge? Pardon, my noble lady,—you have -no power to harbour him; for——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That the Count himself has doubtless understood; -and therefore he has—ay, look for yourselves—therefore -he has taken his own life.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>His own life!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Look for yourselves, I say. You will find the -corpse within there. And since he already -stands before another judge, it is my prayer -that he may be borne hence with all the honour -that beseems his noble birth.—Biörn, you know -my own coffin has stood ready this many a year -<span class='pageno' id='Page_172'>172</span>in the secret chamber. [<i>To the</i> <span class='sc'>Men-at-Arms.</span>] -I pray that in it you will bear Count Sture’s -body to Sweden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>It shall be as you command. [<i>To one of the -others.</i>] Haste with these tidings to Jens -Bielke. He holds the road with the rest of the -troop. We others must in and——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><i>One of the</i> <span class='sc'>Men-at-Arms</span> <i>goes out to the -right; the others go with</i> <span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>into the -room on the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Moves about for a time in uneasy silence.</i>]</div> - -<p class='c027'>If Count Sture had not taken such hurried leave -of the world, within a month he had hung on a -gallows, or had lain for all his days in a dungeon. -Had he been better served with such a -lot?</p> - -<p class='c027'>Or else he had bought his life by betraying -my child into the hands of my foes. Is it <i>I</i>, -then, that have slain him? Does not even the -wolf defend her cubs? Who dare condemn me -for striking my claws into him that would have -reft me of my flesh and blood?—It had to be. -No mother but would have done even as I.</p> - -<p class='c027'>But ’tis no time for idle musings now. I must -to work.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Sits down by the table on the left.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>I will write to all my friends throughout the -land. They must rise as one man to support -<span class='pageno' id='Page_173'>173</span>the great cause. A new king,—regent first, and -then king——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><i>Begins to write, but falls into thought, and -says softly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Who will be chosen in the dead man’s place?—A -king’s mother—? ’Tis a fair word. It has -but one blemish—the hateful likeness to another -word.—King’s <em class='gesperrt'>mother</em> and—king’s <em class='gesperrt'>murderer</em>.<a id='r21' /><a href='#f21' class='c016'><sup>[21]</sup></a>—King’s -murderer—one that takes a king’s -life. King’s mother—one that gives a king life.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>She rises.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, then; I will make good what I have -taken.—My son shall be a king!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><i>She sits down again and begins writing, -but pushes the paper away again, and -leans back in her chair.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is ever an eerie feeling in a house where -lies a corpse. ’Tis therefore my mood is so -strange. [<i>Turns her head to one side as if -speaking to some one.</i>] Not therefore? Why -else should it be?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Broodingly.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Is there such a great gulf, then, between openly -striking down a foe and slaying one—thus? -Knut Alfson had cleft many a brow with his -sword; yet was his own as peaceful as a child’s. -Why then do I ever see this—[<i>makes a motion -as though striking with a knife</i>]—-this stab in -the heart—and the gush of red blood after?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><i>Rings, and goes on speaking while shifting -about her papers.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_174'>174</span>Hereafter I will have nought to do with such -ugly sights. I will be at work both day and -night. And in a month—in a month my son -will be here——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Entering.</i>] Did you strike the bell, my -lady?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Writing.</i>] Bring more lights. See to it in -future that there are many lights in the room.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>goes out again to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><i>After a pause, rises impetuously.</i>] No, no, -no;—I cannot guide the pen to-night! My head -is burning and throbbing——</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Startled, listens.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>What is <em class='gesperrt'>that</em>? Ah, they are screwing the lid -on the coffin.</p> - -<p class='c027'>They told me when I was a child the story -of Sir Aage,<a id='r22' /><a href='#f22' class='c016'><sup>[22]</sup></a> who rose up and walked with his -coffin on his back.—If <em class='gesperrt'>he</em> in there bethought -him one night to come with the coffin on his -back, and thank me for the loan? [<i>Laughs -quietly.</i>] H’m—what have we grown people -to do with childish fancies? [<i>Vehemently.</i>] -Nevertheless, such stories do no good! They -give uneasy dreams. When my son is king, they -shall be forbidden.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><i>Paces up and down once or twice; then -opens the window.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><span class='pageno' id='Page_175'>175</span>How long is it, commonly, ere a body begins -to rot? All the rooms must be aired. ’Tis not -wholesome here till that be done.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'><span class='sc'>Biörn</span> <i>comes in with two lighted branch-candlesticks, -which he places on the -tables.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has set to work at the papers again.</i>] -It is well. See you forget not what I have said. -Many lights on the table!</p> - -<p class='c027'>What are they about now in there?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>They are still screwing down the coffin-lid.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Writing.</i>] Are they screwing it down -<em class='gesperrt'>tight</em>?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>As tight as need be.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ay, ay—who can tell how tight it needs to -be? Do you see that ’tis well done.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Goes up to him with her hand full of -papers, and says mysteriously:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Biörn, you are an old man; but <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> counsel I -will give you. Be on your guard against all -men—both those that are dead and those that -are still to die.—Now go in—go in and see to -it that they screw the lid down tightly.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_176'>176</span><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, shaking his head.</i>] I cannot make -her out.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes back again into the room on the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Begins to seal a letter, but throws it down -half-closed; walks up and down awhile, and then -says vehemently:</i>] Were I a coward I had never -done it—never to all eternity! Were I a coward, -I had shrieked to myself: Refrain, while there -is yet a shred of hope for the saving of thy soul!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Her eye falls on Sten Sture’s picture; she -turns to avoid seeing it, and says softly:</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He is laughing down at me as though he were -alive! Pah!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Turns the picture to the wall without looking at it.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Wherefore did you laugh? Was it because I -did evil to your son? But the other,—is not he -your son too? And he is <em class='gesperrt'>mine</em> as well; mark -that!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Glances stealthily along the row of pictures.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>So wild as they are to-night, I have never -seen them yet. Their eyes follow me wherever -I may go. [<i>Stamps on the floor.</i>] I will not -have it! I will have peace in my house! [<i>Begins -to turn all the pictures to the wall.</i>] Ay, -if it were the Holy Virgin herself——Thinkest -thou <em class='gesperrt'>now</em> is the time——? Why didst thou -never hear my prayers, my burning prayers, -that I might have my child again? Why? Because -<span class='pageno' id='Page_177'>177</span>the monk of Wittenberg is right: There -is no mediator between God and man!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>She draws her breath heavily, and continues -in ever-increasing distraction.</i></p> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis well that I know what to think in such -things. There was no one to see what was done -in there. There is none to bear witness against -me.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Suddenly stretches out her hands and whispers:</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>My son! My beloved child! Come to me! -Here I am!—Hush! I will tell you something: -They hate me up there—beyond the stars—because -I bore you into the world. ’Twas their -will that I should bear the Lord God’s standard -over all the land. But I went my own way. -That is why I have had to suffer so much and -so long.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes from the room on the left.</i>] My lady, -I have to tell you—Christ save me—what is -this?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Has climbed up into the high-seat by the -right-hand wall.</i>] Hush! Hush! I am the -King’s mother. My son has been chosen king. -The struggle was hard ere it came to this—for -’twas with the Almighty One himself I had to -strive.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Comes in breathless from the right.</i>] He is -saved! I have Jens Bielke’s promise. Lady -Inger,—know that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_178'>178</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Peace, I say! look how the people swarm.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>A funeral hymn is heard from the room within.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>There comes the coronation train. What a -throng! All men bow themselves before the -King’s mother. Ay, ay; has she not fought for -her son—even till her hands grew red withal?—Where -are my daughters? I see them not.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God’s blood!—what has befallen here?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>My daughters—my fair daughters! I have -none any more. I had <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> left, and her I lost -even as she was mounting her bridal bed. -[<i>Whispers.</i>] In it lay Lucia dead. There was -no room for two.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ah—it has come to this! The Lord’s vengeance -is upon me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Can you see him? Look, look! ’Tis the -King. It is Inger Gyldenlöve’s son! I know -him by the crown and by Sten Sture’s ring that -he wears round his neck. Hark, what a joyful -sound! He is coming! Soon will he be in my -arms! Ha-ha!—who conquers, God or I?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Men-at-Arms</span> <i>come out with the coffin.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_179'>179</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Clutches at her head and shrieks.</i>] The -corpse! [<i>Whispers.</i>] Pah! ’Tis a hideous -dream. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Sinks back into the high-seat.</i></span></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has come in from the right, stops and -cries in astonishment.</i>] Dead! Then after -all——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>One of the Men-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas he himself that——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a look at</i> <span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span>] He himself——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Faintly, coming to herself.</i>] Ay, right;—now -I remember all.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To the</i> <span class='sc'>Men-at-Arms.</span>] Set down the -corpse. It is not Count Sture.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>One of the Men-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your pardon, Captain;—this ring that he -wore around his neck——</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seizes his arm.</i>] Be still!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_180'>180</span><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starts up.</i>] The ring? The ring!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Rushes up and snatches the ring from him.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>Sten Sture’s ring! [<i>With a shriek.</i>] Oh God, -oh God—my son!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Throws herself down on the coffin.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Men-at-Arms.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Her son?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>At the same time.</i>] Inger Gyldenlöve’s son?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Nils Lykke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So is it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Jens Bielke.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But why did you not tell me——?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Biörn.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Trying to raise her up.</i>] Help! help! My -lady—what ails you? what lack you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lady Inger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a faint voice, half raising herself.</i>] What -lack I? One coffin more. A grave beside my -child——</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sinks again, senseless, on the coffin.</i> <span class='sc'>Nils -Lykke</span> <i>goes hastily out to the right. -General consternation among the rest.</i></p> -</div> - -<hr class='c019' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f12'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r12'>12</a>. Pronounce <i>Knoot</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f13'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r13'>13</a>. Pronounce <i>Stoorë</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f14'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r14'>14</a>. Pronounce <i>Stayn Stoorë</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f15'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r15'>15</a>. Pronounce <i>Tronyem</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f16'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r16'>16</a>. Pronounce <i>Mayraytë</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f17'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r17'>17</a>. Pronounce <i>Loonghë</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f18'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r18'>18</a>. Pronounce <i>Ahkers-hoos</i>.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f19'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r19'>19</a>. That is, Peter the Chancellor.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f20'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r20'>20</a>. King Christian II. of Denmark (the perpetrator of the -massacre at Stockholm known as the Blood-Bath) fled to -Holland in 1523, five years before the date assigned to this -play, in order to escape death or imprisonment at the hands -of his rebellious nobles, who summoned his uncle, Frederick -I., to the throne. Returning to Denmark in 1532, Christian -was thrown into prison, where he spent the last twenty-seven -years of his life.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f21'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r21'>21</a>. The words in the original are “Kongemoder” and -“Kongemorder,” a difference of one letter only.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f22'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r22'>22</a>. Pronounce <i>Oaghë</i>.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_181'>181</span> - <h3 class='c030'>THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG <br /> (1856)</h3> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_183'>183</span> - <h3 class='c030'>THE AUTHOR’S PREFACE TO THE <br /> SECOND EDITION</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>I wrote <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> in Bergen in -the summer of 1855—that is to say, about -twenty-eight years ago.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The play was acted for the first time on -January 2, 1856, also at Bergen, as a gala performance -on the anniversary of the foundation -of the Norwegian Stage.</p> - -<p class='c012'>As I was then stage-manager of the Bergen -Theatre, it was I myself who conducted the rehearsals -of my play. It received an excellent, -a remarkably sympathetic interpretation. Acted -with pleasure and enthusiasm, it was received -in the same spirit. The “Bergen emotionalism,” -which is said to have decided the result -of the latest elections in those parts, ran high -that evening in the crowded theatre. The performance -ended with repeated calls for the author -and for the actors. Later in the evening -I was serenaded by the orchestra, accompanied -by a great part of the audience. I almost think -that I went so far as to make some kind of -speech from my window; certain I am that I -felt extremely happy.</p> - -<p class='c012'>A couple of months later, <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> -was played in Christiania. There also it -was received by the public with much approbation, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_184'>184</span>and the day after the first performance -Björnson wrote a friendly, youthfully ardent -article on it in the <span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Morgenblad</cite></span>. It was not a -notice or criticism proper, but rather a free, -fanciful improvisation on the play and the performance.</p> - -<p class='c012'>On this, however, followed the real criticism, -written by the real critics.</p> - -<p class='c012'>How did a man in the Christiania of those -days—by which I mean the years between 1850 -and 1860, or thereabouts—become a real literary, -and in particular dramatic, critic?</p> - -<p class='c012'>As a rule, the process was as follows: After -some preparatory exercises in the columns of -the <span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Samfundsblad</cite></span>, and after having frequently -listened to the discussions which went on in Treschow’s -café or at “Ingebret’s” after the play, -the future critic betook himself to Johan Dahl’s -bookshop and ordered from Copenhagen a copy -of J. L. Heiberg’s <cite>Prose Works</cite>, among which -was to be found—so he had heard it said—an -essay entitled <cite>On the Vaudeville</cite>. This essay -was in due course read, ruminated on, and -possibly to a certain extent understood. From -Heiberg’s writings the young man, moreover, -learned of a controversy which that author had -carried on in his day with Professor Oehlenschläger -and with the Sorö poet, Hauch. And -he was simultaneously made aware that J. L. -Baggesen (the author of <cite>Letters from the Dead</cite>) -had at a still earlier period made a similar attack -on the great author who wrote both <cite>Axel and -Valborg</cite> and <cite>Hakon Jarl</cite>.</p> - -<p class='c012'>A quantity of other information useful to a -<span class='pageno' id='Page_185'>185</span>critic was to be extracted from these writings. -From them one learned, for instance, that taste -obliged a good critic to be scandalised by a -hiatus. Did the young critical Jeronimuses of -Christiania encounter such a monstrosity in any -new verse, they were as certain as their prototype -in Holberg to shout their “Hoity-toity! the -world will not last till Easter!”</p> - -<p class='c012'>The origin of another peculiar characteristic -of the criticism then prevalent in the Norwegian -capital was long a puzzle to me. Every -time a new author published a book or had a -little play acted, our critics were in the habit -of flying into an ungovernable passion and behaving -as if the publication of the book or the -performance of the play were a mortal insult -to themselves and the newspapers in which they -wrote. As already remarked, I puzzled long -over this peculiarity. At last I got to the bottom -of the matter. Whilst reading the Danish -<cite>Monthly Journal of Literature</cite> I was struck by -the fact that old State-Councillor Molbech was -invariably seized with a fit of rage when a -young author published a book or had a play -acted in Copenhagen.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Thus, or in a manner closely resembling this, -had the tribunal qualified itself, which now, in -the daily press, summoned <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> -to the bar of criticism in Christiania. It was -principally composed of young men who, as regards -criticism, lived upon loans from various -quarters. Their critical thoughts had long ago -been thought and expressed by others; their -opinions had long ere now been formulated elsewhere. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_186'>186</span>Their æsthetic principles were borrowed; -their critical method was borrowed; the -polemical tactics they employed were borrowed -in every particular, great and small. Their very -frame of mind was borrowed. Borrowing, borrowing, -here, there, and everywhere! The single -original thing about them was that they invariably -made a wrong and unseasonable application -of their borrowings.</p> - -<p class='c012'>It can surprise no one that this body, the -members of which, as critics, supported themselves -by borrowing, should have presupposed -similar action on my part, as author. Two, possibly -more than two, of the newspapers promptly -discovered that I had borrowed this, that, and -the other thing from Henrik Hertz’s play, <cite>Svend -Dyring’s House</cite>.</p> - -<p class='c012'>This is a baseless and indefensible critical -assertion. It is evidently to be ascribed to the -fact that the metre of the ancient ballads is employed -in both plays. But my tone is quite different -from Hertz’s; the language of my play -has a different ring; a light summer breeze plays -over the rhythm of my verse; over that of -Hertz’s brood the storms of autumn.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Nor, as regards the characters, the action, and -the contents of the plays generally, is there any -other or any greater resemblance between them -than that which is a natural consequence of the -derivation of the subjects of both from the narrow -circle of ideas in which the ancient ballads -move.</p> - -<p class='c012'>It might be maintained with quite as much, -or even more, reason that Hertz in his <cite>Svend -<span class='pageno' id='Page_187'>187</span>Dyring’s House</cite> had borrowed, and that to no inconsiderable -extent, from Heinrich von Kleist’s -<span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Käthchen von Heilbronn</cite></span>, a play written at the -beginning of this century. Käthchen’s relation -to Count Wetterstrahl is in all essentials the -same as Ragnhild’s to the knight, Stig Hvide. -Like Ragnhild, Käthchen is compelled by a -mysterious, inexplicable power to follow the man -she loves wherever he goes, to steal secretly -after him, to lay herself down to sleep near him, -to come back to him, as by some innate compulsion, -however often she may be driven away. -And other instances of supernatural interference -are to be met with both in Kleist’s and in Hertz’s -play.</p> - -<p class='c012'>But does any one doubt that it would be possible, -with a little good- or a little ill-will, to -discover among still older dramatic literature a -play from which it could be maintained that -Kleist had borrowed here and there in his -<span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Käthchen von Heilbronn</cite></span>? I, for my part, do -not doubt it. But such suggestions of indebtedness -are futile. What makes a work of art the -spiritual property of its creator is the fact that -he has imprinted on it the stamp of his own -personality. Therefore I hold that, in spite of -the above-mentioned points of resemblance, -<i>Svend Dyring’s House</i> is as incontestably and -entirely an original work by Henrik Hertz as -<span lang="de" xml:lang="de"><cite>Käthchen von Heilbronn</cite></span> is an original work by -Heinrich von Kleist.</p> - -<p class='c012'>I advance the same claim on my own behalf -as regards <i>The Feast at Solhoug</i>, and I -trust that, for the future, each of the three -<span class='pageno' id='Page_188'>188</span>namesakes<a id='r23' /><a href='#f23' class='c016'><sup>[23]</sup></a> will be permitted to keep, in its entirety, -what rightfully belongs to him.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In writing of <i>The Feast at Solhoug</i> in connection -with <i>Svend Dyring’s House</i>, George -Brandes expresses the opinion, not that the -former play is founded upon any idea borrowed -from the latter, but that it has been written -under an influence exercised by the older author -upon the younger. Brandes invariably criticises -my work in such a friendly spirit that I -have all reason to be obliged to him for this -suggestion, as for so much else.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Nevertheless I must maintain that he, too, -is in this instance mistaken. I have never -specially admired Henrik Hertz as a dramatist. -Hence it is impossible for me to believe that he -should, unknown to myself, have been able to -exercise any influence on my dramatic production.</p> - -<p class='c012'>As regards this point and the matter in general, -I might confine myself to referring those -interested to the writings of Dr. Valfrid Vasenius, -lecturer on Æsthetics at the University of -Helsingfors. In the thesis which gained him his -degree of Doctor of Philosophy, <cite>Henrik Ibsen’s -Dramatic Poetry in its First Stage</cite> (1879), and -also in <cite>Henrik Ibsen: The Portrait of a Skald</cite> -(Jos. Seligman & Co., Stockholm, 1882), Vasenius -states and supports his views on the subject -of the play at present in question, supplementing -them in the latter work by what I told -him, very briefly, when we were together at -Munich three years ago.</p> - -<p class='c012'><span class='pageno' id='Page_189'>189</span>But, to prevent all misconception, I will now -myself give a short account of the origin of -<cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite>.</p> - -<p class='c012'>I began this Preface with the statement that -<cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite> was written in the summer -of 1855.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In 1854 I had written <cite>Lady Inger of Östråt</cite>. -This was a task which had obliged me to devote -much attention to the literature and history of -Norway during the Middle Ages, especially the -latter part of that period. I did my utmost to -familiarise myself with the manners and customs, -with the emotions, thoughts, and language, -of the men of those days.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The period, however, is not one over which -the student is tempted to linger, nor does it present -much material suitable for dramatic treatment.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Consequently I soon deserted it for the Saga -period. But the Sagas of the Kings, and in -general the more strictly historical traditions of -that far-off age, did not attract me greatly; at -that time I was unable to put the quarrels between -kings and chieftains, parties and clans, -to any dramatic purpose. This was to happen -later.</p> - -<p class='c012'>In the Icelandic “family” Sagas, on the -other hand, I found in abundance what I required -in the shape of human garb for the -moods, conceptions, and thoughts which at that -time occupied me, or were, at least, more or less -distinctly present in my mind. With these Old-Norse -contributions to the personal history of -our Saga period I had had no previous acquaintance; -<span class='pageno' id='Page_190'>190</span>I had hardly so much as heard them -named. But now N. M. Petersen’s excellent -translation—excellent, at least, as far as the -style is concerned—fell into my hands. In the -pages of these family chronicles, with their variety -of scenes and of relations between man -and man, between woman and woman, in short, -between human being and human being, there -met me a personal, eventful, really living life; -and as the result of my intercourse with all -these distinctly individual men and women, -there presented themselves to my mind’s eye the -first rough, indistinct outlines of <i>The Vikings -at Helgeland</i>.</p> - -<p class='c012'>How far the details of that drama then took -shape, I am no longer able to say. But I remember -perfectly that the two figures of which -I first caught sight were the two women who in -course of time became Hiördis and Dagny. -There was to be a great banquet in the play, -with passion-rousing, fateful quarrels during -its course. Of other characters and passions, -and situations produced by these, I meant to -include whatever seemed to me most typical of -the life which the Sagas reveal. In short, it -was my intention to reproduce dramatically exactly -what the Saga of the Volsungs gives in -epic form.</p> - -<p class='c012'>I made no complete, connected plan at that -time; but it was evident to me that such a drama -was to be my first undertaking.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Various obstacles intervened. Most of them -were of a personal nature, and these were probably -the most decisive; but it undoubtedly had -<span class='pageno' id='Page_191'>191</span>its significance that I happened just at this time -to make a careful study of Landstad’s collection -of Norwegian ballads, published two years previously. -My mood of the moment was more in -harmony with the literary romanticism of the -Middle Ages than with the deeds of the Sagas, -with poetical than with prose composition, with -the word-melody of the ballad than with the -characterisation of the Saga.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Thus it happened that the fermenting, formless -design for the tragedy, <cite>The Vikings at Helgeland</cite>, -transformed itself temporarily into the -lyric drama, <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite>.</p> - -<p class='c012'>The two female characters, the foster sisters -Hiördis and Dagny, of the projected tragedy, -became the sisters Margit and Signë of the -completed lyric drama. The derivation of the -latter pair from the two women of the Saga at -once becomes apparent when attention is drawn -to it. The relationship is unmistakable. The -tragic hero, so far only vaguely outlined, Sigurd, -the far-travelled Viking, the welcome guest -at the courts of kings, became the knight and -minstrel, Gudmund Alfson, who has likewise -been long absent in foreign lands, and has lived -in the king’s household. His attitude towards -the two sisters was changed, to bring it into accordance -with the change in time and circumstances; -but the position of both sisters to him -remained practically the same as that in the projected -and afterwards completed tragedy. The -fateful banquet, the presentation of which had -seemed to me of the first importance in my -original plan, became in the drama the scene -<span class='pageno' id='Page_192'>192</span>upon which its personages made their appearance; -it became the background against which -the action stood out, and communicated to the -picture as a whole the general tone at which I -aimed. The ending of the play was, undoubtedly, -softened and subdued into harmony with -its character as drama, not tragedy; but orthodox -æstheticians may still, perhaps, find it disputable -whether, in this ending, a touch of pure -tragedy has not been left behind, to testify to -the origin of the drama.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Upon this subject, however, I shall not enter -further at present. My object has simply been -to maintain and prove that the play under consideration, -like all my other dramatic works, is -an inevitable outcome of the tenor of my life -at a certain period. It had its origin within, -and was not the result of any outward impression -or influence.</p> - -<p class='c012'>This, and no other, is the true account of the -genesis of <cite>The Feast at Solhoug</cite>.</p> - -<div class='c014'><span class='sc'>Henrik Ibsen.</span></div> -<p class='c033'><span class='sc'>Rome</span>, April, 1883.</p> - -<hr class='c019' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f23'> -<p class='c012'><a href='#r23'>23</a>. Heinrich von Kleist, Henrik Hertz, Henrik Ibsen.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_193'>193</span> - <h3 class='c030'>CHARACTERS</h3> -</div> - - <ul class='ul_1 c000'> - <li><span class='sc'>Bengt Gauteson</span>, <i>Master of Solhoug.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Margit</span>, <i>his wife.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Signë</span>, <i>her sister.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Gudmund Alfson</span>, <i>their kinsman.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Knut Gesling</span>, <i>the King’s sheriff.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Erik of Heggë</span>, <i>his friend.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A House-carl.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Another House-carl.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The King’s Envoy.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>An Old Man.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A Maiden.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Guests, both Men and Ladies.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Men of Knut Gesling’s Train.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Serving-men and Maidens at Solhoug.</span> - </li> - </ul> - -<hr class='c020' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><i>The action passes at Solhoug in the Fourteenth Century.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'><span class='sc'>Pronunciation of Names</span>: Gudmund = <i>Goodmoond</i>. -The g in “Margit” and in “Gesling” is hard, as in “go,” -or, in “Gesling,” it may be pronounced as y—“Yesling.” -The first o in “Solhoug” ought to have the sound of a very -long “oo.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_195'>195</span> - <h2 class='c008'><span class='large'>THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG</span> <br /> PLAY IN THREE ACTS</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>ACT FIRST</h3> - -<p class='c025'><i>A stately room, with doors in the back and to -both sides. In front, on the right, a bay -window with small round panes, set in lead, -and near the window a table, on which is a -quantity of feminine ornaments. Along the -left wall, a longer table with silver goblets, -beakers and drinking-horns. The door in -the back leads out to a passage-way,<a id='r24' /><a href='#f24' class='c016'><sup>[24]</sup></a> -through which can be seen a spacious fiord-landscape.</i></p> -<p class='c025'><span class='sc'>Bengt Gauteson, Margit, Knut Gesling</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Erik of Heggë</span> <i>are seated around the table -on the left. In the background are</i> <span class='sc'>Knut’s</span> -<i>followers, some seated, some standing; one -or two flagons of ale are handed round -among them. Far off are heard church -bells, ringing to Mass.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c034'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rising at the table.</i>] In one word, now, -what answer have you to make to my wooing on -Knut Gesling’s behalf?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_196'>196</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Glancing uneasily towards his wife.</i>] Well, -I—to me it seems—[<i>As she remains silent.</i>] -H’m, Margit, let us first hear your thought in -the matter.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rising.</i>] Sir Knut Gesling, I have long -known all that Erik of Heggë has told of you. -I know full well that you come of a lordly -house; you are rich in gold and gear, and you -stand in high favour with our royal master.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] In high favour—so say I too.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And doubtless my sister could choose her no -doughtier mate—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>None doughtier; that is what <i>I</i> say too.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>—if so be that you can win her to think -kindly of you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Anxiously, and half aside.</i>] Nay—nay, my -dear wife—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Springing up.</i>] Stands it so, Dame Margit! -You think that your sister—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_197'>197</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seeking to calm him.</i>] Nay, nay, Knut Gesling! -Have patience, now. You must understand -us aright.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>There is naught in my words to wound you. -My sister knows you only by the songs that are -made about you—and these songs sound but ill -in gentle ears.</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No peaceful home is your father’s house.</div> - <div class='line in2'>With your lawless, reckless crew,</div> - <div class='line'>Day out, day in, must you hold carouse—</div> - <div class='line in2'>God help her who mates with you.</div> - <div class='line'>God help the maiden you lure or buy</div> - <div class='line in2'>With gold and with forests green—</div> - <div class='line'>Soon will her sore heart long to lie</div> - <div class='line in2'>Still in the grave, I ween.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, aye—true enough—Knut Gesling lives -not overpeaceably. But there will soon come a -change in that, when he gets him a wife in his -hall.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And this I would have you mark, Dame Margit: -it may be a week since, I was at a feast at -Heggë, at Erik’s bidding, whom here you see. -The ale was strong; and as the evening wore on -I vowed a vow that Signë, your fair sister, -should be my wife, and that before the year was -out. Never shall it be said of Knut Gesling -that he brake any vow. You can see, then, that -<span class='pageno' id='Page_198'>198</span>you must e’en choose me for your sister’s husband—be -it with your will or against it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ere <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> may be, I must tell you plain,</div> - <div class='line'>You must rid yourself of your ravening train.</div> - <div class='line'>You must scour no longer with yell and shout</div> - <div class='line'>O’er the country-side in a galloping rout;</div> - <div class='line'>You must still the shudder that spreads around</div> - <div class='line'>When Knut Gesling is to a bride-ale bound.</div> - <div class='line'>Courteous must your mien be when a-feasting you ride;</div> - <div class='line'>Let your battle-axe hang at home at the chimney-side—</div> - <div class='line'>It ever sits loose in your hand, well you know,</div> - <div class='line'>When the mead has gone round and your brain is aglow.</div> - <div class='line'>From no man his rightful gear shall you wrest,</div> - <div class='line'>You shall harm no harmless maiden;</div> - <div class='line'>You shall send to no man the shameless hest</div> - <div class='line'>That when his path crosses yours, he were best</div> - <div class='line'>Come with his grave-clothes laden.</div> - <div class='line'>And if you will so bear you till the year be past,</div> - <div class='line'>You may win my sister for your bride at last.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With suppressed rage.</i>] You know how to -order your words cunningly, Dame Margit. -Truly, you should have been a priest, and not -your husband’s wife.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, for that matter, I too could—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_199'>199</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Paying no heed to him.</i>] But I would have -you take note that had a sword-bearing man -spoken to me in such wise—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, but listen, Knut Gesling—you must understand -us!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As before.</i>] Well, briefly, he should have -learnt that the axe sits loose in my hand, as you -said but now.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly.</i>] There we have it! Margit, Margit, -this will never end well.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] You asked for a forthright answer, -and that I have given you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, well; I will not reckon too closely with -you, Dame Margit. You have more wit than all -the rest of us together. Here is my hand;—it -may be there was somewhat of reason in the -keen-edged words you spoke to me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This I like well; now are you already on the -right way to amendment. Yet one word more—to-day -we hold a feast at Solhoug.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_200'>200</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>A feast?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yes, Knut Gesling: you must know that it is -our wedding-day; this day three years ago made -me Dame Margit’s husband.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Impatiently, interrupting.</i>] As I said, we -hold a feast to-day. When Mass is over, and -your other business done, I would have you ride -hither again, and join in the banquet. Then -you can learn to know my sister.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So be it, Dame Margit; I thank you. Yet -’twas not to go to Mass that I rode hither this -morning. Your kinsman, Gudmund Alfson, was -the cause of my coming.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starts.</i>] He! My kinsman? Where would -you seek him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>His homestead lies behind the headland, on -the other side of the fiord.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But he himself is far away.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Be not so sure; he may be nearer than you -think.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_201'>201</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispers.</i>] Hold your peace!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nearer? What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Have you not heard, then, that Gudmund Alfson -has come back to Norway? He came with -the Chancellor Audun of Hegranes, who was -sent to France to bring home our new Queen.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>True enough; but in these very days the King -holds his wedding-feast in full state at Bergen, -and there is Gudmund Alfson a guest.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And there could we too have been guests had -my wife so willed it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside to</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] Then Dame Margit knows -not that—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Aside.</i>] So it would seem; but keep your -counsel. [<i>Aloud.</i>] Well, well, Dame Margit, -I must go my way none the less, and see what -may betide. At nightfall I will be here again.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And then you must show whether you have -power to bridle your unruly spirit.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_202'>202</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, mark you that.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You must lay no hand on your axe—hear you, -Knut Gesling?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Neither on your axe, nor on your knife, nor -on any other weapon whatsoever.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For then can you never hope to be one of our -kindred.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, that is our firm resolve.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] Have no fear.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And what we have firmly resolved stands fast.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That I like well, Sir Bengt Gauteson. I, too, -say the same; and I have pledged myself at the -feast-board to wed your kinswoman. You may -be sure that my pledge, too, will stand fast.—God’s -peace till to-night!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>He and</i> <span class='sc'>Erik</span>, <i>with their men, go out at the back.</i></p> -</div> -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i><span class='sc'>Bengt</span> accompanies them to the door. The -sound of the bells has in the meantime -ceased.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_203'>203</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Returning.</i>] Methought he seemed to -threaten us as he departed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Absently.</i>] Aye, so it seemed.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Knut Gesling is an ill man to fall out with. -And, when I bethink me, we gave him over -many hard words. But come, let us not brood -over that. To-day we must be merry, Margit!—as -I trow we have both good reason to be.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a weary smile.</i>] Aye, surely, surely.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis true I was no mere stripling when I -courted you. But well I wot I was the richest -man for many and many a mile. You were a -fair maiden, and nobly born; but your dowry -would have tempted no wooer.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Yet was I then so rich.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What said you, my wife?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, nothing, nothing. [<i>Crosses to the right.</i>] -I will deck me with pearls and rings. Is not -to-night a time of rejoicing for me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_204'>204</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am fain to hear you say it. Let me see that -you deck you in your best attire, that our guests -may say: Happy she who mated with Bengt -Gauteson.—But now must I to the larder; there -are many things to-day that must not be overlooked.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>He goes out to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sinks down on a chair by the table on the -right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas well he departed. While here he remains</div> - <div class='line'>Meseems the blood freezes within my veins;</div> - <div class='line'>Meseems that a crushing might and cold</div> - <div class='line'>My heart in its clutches doth still enfold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>With tears she cannot repress.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>He</em> is my husband! I am <em class='gesperrt'>his</em> wife!</div> - <div class='line'>How long, how long lasts a woman’s life?</div> - <div class='line'>Sixty years, mayhap—God pity me</div> - <div class='line'>Who am not yet full twenty-three!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>More calmly, after a short silence.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hard, so long in a gilded cage to pine;</div> - <div class='line'>Hard a hopeless prisoner’s lot—and mine.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Absently fingering the ornaments on the -table, and beginning to put them on.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With rings, and with jewels, and all of my best</div> - <div class='line'>By his order myself I am decking—</div> - <div class='line'>But oh, if to-day were my burial-feast,</div> - <div class='line'>’Twere little that I’d be recking.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Breaking off.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if thus I brood I must needs despair;</div> - <div class='line'>I know a song that can lighten care.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She sings.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_205'>205</span>The Hill-King to the sea did ride;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>To woo a maiden to be his bride.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Hill-King rode to Sir Håkon’s hold;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>Little Kirsten sat combing her locks of gold.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Hill-King wedded the maiden fair;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>A silvern girdle she ever must wear.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Hill-King wedded the lily-wand,</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>With fifteen gold rings on either hand.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Three summers passed, and there passed full five;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>In the hill little Kirsten was buried alive.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Five summers passed, and there passed full nine;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>Little Kirsten ne’er saw the glad sunshine.</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the dale there are flowers and the birds’ blithe song;</div> - <div class='line in2'>—Oh, sad are my days and dreary—</div> - <div class='line'>In the hill there is gold and the night is long</div> - <div class='line in2'>—I am waiting for thee, I am weary.—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'><span class='pageno' id='Page_206'>206</span>[<i>She rises and crosses the room.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How oft in the gloaming would Gudmund sing</div> - <div class='line'>This song in my father’s hall.</div> - <div class='line'>There was somewhat in it—some strange, sad thing</div> - <div class='line'>That took my heart in thrall;</div> - <div class='line'>Though I scarce understood, I could ne’er forget—</div> - <div class='line'>And the words and the thoughts they haunt me yet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Stops horror-struck.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Rings of red gold! And a belt beside—!</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas with gold the Hill-King wedded his bride!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>In despair; sinks down on a bench beside -the table on the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe! Woe! I myself am the Hill-King’s wife!</div> - <div class='line'>And there cometh none to free me from the prison of my life.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Signë</span>, <i>radiant with gladness, comes running -in from the back.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calling.</i>] Margit, Margit,—he is coming!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starting up.</i>] Coming? Who is coming?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Gudmund, our kinsman!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_207'>207</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Gudmund Alfson! Here! How can you -think—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, I am sure of it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Crosses to the right.</i>] Gudmund Alfson is -at the wedding-feast in the King’s hall; you -know that as well as I.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Maybe; but none the less I am sure it was he.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Have you seen him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, no, no; but I must tell you—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yes, haste you—tell on!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas early morn, and the church bells rang,</div> - <div class='line'>To Mass I was fain to ride;</div> - <div class='line'>The birds in the willows twittered and sang,</div> - <div class='line'>In the birch-groves far and wide.</div> - <div class='line'>All earth was glad in the clear, sweet day;</div> - <div class='line'>And from church it had well-nigh stayed me;</div> - <div class='line'>For still, as I rode down the shady way,</div> - <div class='line'>Each rosebud beguiled and delayed me.</div> - <div class='line'>Silently into the church I stole;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_208'>208</span>The priest at the altar was bending;</div> - <div class='line'>He chanted and read, and with awe in their soul,</div> - <div class='line'>The folk to God’s word were attending.</div> - <div class='line'>Then a voice rang out o’er the fiord so blue;</div> - <div class='line'>And the carven angels, the whole church through,</div> - <div class='line'>Turned round, methought, to listen thereto.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>O Signë, say on! Tell me all, tell me all!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas as though a strange, irresistible call</div> - <div class='line'>Summoned me forth from the worshipping flock,</div> - <div class='line'>Over hill and dale, over mead and rock.</div> - <div class='line'>’Mid the silver birches I listening trod,</div> - <div class='line'>Moving as though in a dream;</div> - <div class='line'>Behind me stood empty the house of God;</div> - <div class='line'>Priest and people were lured by the magic, ’twould seem,</div> - <div class='line'>Of the tones that still through the air did stream.</div> - <div class='line'>No sound they made; they were quiet as death;</div> - <div class='line'>To hearken the song-birds held their breath,</div> - <div class='line'>The lark dropped earthward, the cuckoo was still,</div> - <div class='line'>As the voice re-echoed from hill to hill.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Go on.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>They crossed themselves, women and men;</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Pressing her hands to her breast.</i></div> -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But strange thoughts arose within me then;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_209'>209</span>For the heavenly song familiar grew:</div> - <div class='line'>Gudmund oft sang it to me and you—</div> - <div class='line'>Ofttimes has Gudmund carolled it,</div> - <div class='line'>And all he e’er sang in my heart is writ.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you think that it may be—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>I know it is he!</div> - <div class='line'>I know it! I know it! You soon shall see!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Laughing.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>From far-off lands, at the last, in the end,</div> - <div class='line'>Each song-bird homewards his flight doth bend!</div> - <div class='line'>I am so happy—though why I scarce know—!</div> - <div class='line'>Margit, what say you? I’ll quickly go</div> - <div class='line'>And take down his harp, that has hung so long</div> - <div class='line'>In there on the wall that ’tis rusted quite;</div> - <div class='line'>Its golden strings I will polish bright,</div> - <div class='line'>And tune them to ring and to sing with his song.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Absently.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Do as you will—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Reproachfully.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Nay, this is not right.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Embracing her.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But when Gudmund comes will your heart grow light—</div> - <div class='line'>Light, as when I was a child, again.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_210'>210</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>To herself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So much has changed—ah, so much!—since then—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Margit, you <em class='gesperrt'>shall</em> be happy and gay!</div> - <div class='line'>Have you not serving-maids many, and thralls?</div> - <div class='line'>Costly robes hang in rows on your chamber walls;</div> - <div class='line'>How rich you are, none can say.</div> - <div class='line'>By day you can ride in the forest deep,</div> - <div class='line'>Chasing the hart and the hind;</div> - <div class='line'>By night in a lordly bower you can sleep,</div> - <div class='line'>On pillows of silk reclined.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Looking towards the window.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And he comes to Solhoug! He, as a guest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What say you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Turning.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Naught.—Deck you out in your best.</div> - <div class='line'>That fortune which seemeth to you so bright</div> - <div class='line'>May await yourself.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Margit, say what you mean!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_211'>211</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Stroking her hair.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I mean—nay, no more! Twill shortly be seen—;</div> - <div class='line'>I mean—should a wooer ride hither to-night—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A wooer? For whom?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>For you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>Laughing.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>For me?</div> - <div class='line'>That he’d ta’en the wrong road full soon he would see.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What would you say if a valiant knight</div> - <div class='line'>Begged for your hand?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>That my heart was too light</div> - <div class='line'>To think upon suitors or choose a mate.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if he were mighty, and rich, and great?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, were he a king, did his palace hold</div> - <div class='line'>Stores of rich garments and ruddy gold,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_212'>212</span>’Twould ne’er set my heart desiring.</div> - <div class='line'>With you I am rich enough here, meseems,</div> - <div class='line'>With summer and sun and the murmuring streams,</div> - <div class='line'>And the birds in the branches quiring.</div> - <div class='line'>Dear sister mine—here shall my dwelling be;</div> - <div class='line'>And to give any wooer my hand in fee,</div> - <div class='line'>For that I am too busy, and my heart too full of glee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>runs out to the left, singing.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>After a pause.</i>] Gudmund Alfson coming -hither! Hither—to Solhoug? No, no, it cannot -be.—Signë heard him singing, she said! When -I have heard the pine-trees moaning in the forest -afar, when I have heard the waterfall thunder -and the birds pipe their lure in the treetops, -it has many a time seemed to me as though, -through it all, the sound of Gudmund’s songs -came blended. And yet he was far from here.—Signë -has deceived herself. Gudmund cannot -be coming.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>enters hastily from the back.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Entering, calls loudly.</i>] An unlooked-for -guest, my wife!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What guest?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your kinsman, Gudmund Alfson! [<i>Calls -through the doorway on the right.</i>] Let the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_213'>213</span>best guest-room be prepared—and that forthwith!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Is he, then, already here?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Looking out through the passage-way.</i>]</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, not yet; but he cannot be far off. [<i>Calls -again to the right.</i>] The carved oak bed, with -the dragon-heads! [<i>Advances to</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] His -shield-bearer brings a message of greeting from -him; and he himself is close behind.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>His shield-bearer! Comes he hither with a -shield-bearer?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, by my faith he does. He has a shield-bearer -and six armed men in his train. What -would you? Gudmund Alfson is a far other -man than he was when he set forth to seek his -fortune. But I must ride forth and receive him.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calls out.</i>] The gilded saddle on my horse! -And forget not the bridle with the serpents’ -heads! [<i>Looks out to the back.</i>] Ha, there he -is already at the gate! Well, then, my staff—my -silver-headed staff! Such a lordly knight—Heaven -save us!—we must receive him with -honour, with all seemly honour!</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Goes hastily out to the back.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_214'>214</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Brooding.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Alone he departed, a penniless swain;</div> - <div class='line'>With esquires and henchmen now comes he again.</div> - <div class='line'>What would he? Comes he, forsooth, to see</div> - <div class='line'>My bitter and gnawing misery?</div> - <div class='line'>Would he try how long, in my lot accurst,</div> - <div class='line'>I can writhe and moan, ere my heart-strings burst—</div> - <div class='line'>Thinks he that—? Ah, let him only try!</div> - <div class='line'>Full little joy shall he reap thereby.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She beckons through the doorway on the -right. Three handmaidens enter.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>List, little maids, what I say to you:</div> - <div class='line'>Find me my silken mantle blue.</div> - <div class='line'>Go with me into my bower anon:</div> - <div class='line'>My richest of velvets and furs do on.</div> - <div class='line'>Two of you shall deck me in scarlet and vair,</div> - <div class='line'>The third shall wind pearl-strings into my hair.</div> - <div class='line'>All my jewels and gauds bear away with ye!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>The handmaids go out to the left, taking -the ornaments with them.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Since Margit the Hill-King’s bride must be,</div> - <div class='line'>Well! don we the queenly livery!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>She goes out to the left.</i></div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>ushers in</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund Alfson</span>, -<i>through the pent-house passage at the -back.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And now once more—welcome under Solhoug’s -roof, my wife’s kinsman.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_215'>215</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I thank you. And how goes it with her? She -thrives well in every way, I make no doubt?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, you may be sure she does. There is -nothing she lacks. She has five handmaidens, -no less, at her beck and call; a courser stands -ready saddled in the stall when she lists to ride -abroad. In one word, she has all that a noble -lady can desire to make her happy in her lot.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And Margit—is she then happy?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God and all men would think that she must -be; but, strange to say—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What mean you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, believe it or not as you list, but it seems -to me that Margit was merrier of heart in the -days of her poverty, than since she became the -lady of Solhoug.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] I knew it; so it must be.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What say you, kinsman?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_216'>216</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I say that I wonder greatly at what you tell -me of your wife.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, you may be sure I wonder at it too. On -the faith and troth of an honest gentleman, ’tis -beyond me to guess what more she can desire. -I am about her all day long; and no one can -say of me that I rule her harshly. All the cares -of household and husbandry I have taken on -myself; yet notwithstanding—Well, well, you -were ever a merry heart; I doubt not you will -bring sunshine with you. Hush! here comes -Dame Margit! Let her not see that I—</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>enters from the left, richly dressed.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Going to meet her.</i>] Margit—my dear Margit!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Stops, and looks at him without recognition.</i>] -Your pardon, Sir Knight; but—? [<i>As though -she only now recognised him.</i>] Surely, if I -mistake not, ’tis Gudmund Alfson.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Holding out her hand to him.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Without taking it.</i>] And you did not at once -know me again?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_217'>217</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Laughing.</i>] Why, Margit, of what are you -thinking? I told you but a moment agone that -your kinsman—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Crossing to the table on the right.</i>] Twelve -years is a long time, Gudmund. The freshest -plant may wither ten times over in that space.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Tis seven years since last we met.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Surely it must be more than that.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looking at her.</i>] I could almost think so. -But ’tis as I say.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>How strange! I must have been but a child -then; and it seems to me a whole eternity since -I was a child. [<i>Throws herself down on a -chair.</i>] Well, sit you down, my kinsman! Rest -you, for to-night you shall dance, and rejoice us -with your singing. [<i>With a forced smile.</i>] -Doubtless you know we are merry here to-day—we -are holding a feast.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas told me as I entered your homestead.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_218'>218</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, ’tis three years to-day since I became—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Interrupting.</i>] My kinsman has already -heard it. [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>] Will you not lay -aside your cloak?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I thank you, Dame Margit; but it seems to -me cold here—colder than I had foreseen.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>For my part, I am warm enough; but then -I have a hundred things to do and to take order -for. [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] Let not the time seem long -to our guest while I am absent. You can talk -together of the old days.</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Hesitating.</i>] Are you going? Will you not -rather—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Laughing, to</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span>, <i>as he comes forward -again.</i>] See you well—Sir Bengt of Solhoug -is the man to make the women fain of him. -How short so e’er the space, my wife cannot -abide to be without me. [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit</span>, <i>caressing -her.</i>] Content you; I shall soon be with you -again.</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>He goes out to the back.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_219'>219</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself</i>.] Oh, torture, to have to endure -it all.</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>A short silence.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How goes it, I pray, with your sister dear?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Right well, I thank you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>They said she was here</div> - <div class='line'>With you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>She has been here ever since we—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Breaks off.</i></div> - <div class='line'>She came, now three years since, to Solhoug with me.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>After a pause.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Ere long she’ll be here, her friend to greet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well I mind me of Signë’s nature sweet.</div> - <div class='line'>No guile she dreamed of, no evil knew.</div> - <div class='line'>When I call to remembrance her eyes so blue</div> - <div class='line'>I must think of the angels in heaven.</div> - <div class='line'>But of years there have passed no fewer than seven;</div> - <div class='line'>In that time much may have altered. Oh, say</div> - <div class='line'>If she, too, has changed so while I’ve been away?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She too? Is it, pray, in the halls of kings</div> - <div class='line'>That you learn such courtly ways, Sir Knight?</div> - <div class='line'>To remind me thus of the change time brings—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_220'>220</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, Margit, my meaning you read aright!</div> - <div class='line'>You were kind to me, both, in those far-away years—</div> - <div class='line'>Your eyes, when we parted were wet with tears.</div> - <div class='line'>We swore like brother and sister still</div> - <div class='line'>To hold together in good hap or ill.</div> - <div class='line'>’Mid the other maids like a sun you shone,</div> - <div class='line'>Far, far and wide was your beauty known.</div> - <div class='line'>You are no less fair than you were, I wot;</div> - <div class='line'>But Solhoug’s mistress, I see, has forgot</div> - <div class='line'>The penniless kinsman. So hard is your mind</div> - <div class='line'>That ever of old was gentle and kind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Choking back her tears.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aye, of old—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Looks compassionately at her, is silent for -a little, then says in a subdued voice.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Shall we do as your husband said?</div> - <div class='line'>Pass the time with talk of the dear old days?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Vehemently.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, no, not of them!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>More calmly.</i></div> - <div class='line in22'>Their memory’s dead.</div> - <div class='line'>My mind unwillingly backward strays.</div> - <div class='line'>Tell rather of what your life has been,</div> - <div class='line'>Of what in the wide world you’ve done and seen.</div> - <div class='line'>Adventures you’ve lacked not, well I ween—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_221'>221</span>In all the warmth and the space out yonder,</div> - <div class='line'>That heart and mind should be light, what wonder?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the King’s high hall I found not the joy</div> - <div class='line'>That I knew by my own poor hearth as a boy.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<span class='sc'>Without looking at him.</span>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>While I, as at Solhoug each day flits past,</div> - <div class='line'>Thank Heaven that here has my lot been cast.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis well if for this you can thankful be—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Vehemently.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why not? For am I not honoured and free?</div> - <div class='line'>Must not all folk here obey my hest?</div> - <div class='line'>Rule I not all things as seemeth me best?</div> - <div class='line'>Here I am first, with no second beside me;</div> - <div class='line'>And that, as you know, from of old satisfied me.</div> - <div class='line'>Did you think you would find me weary and sad?</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, my mind is at peace and my heart is glad.</div> - <div class='line'>You might, then, have spared your journey here</div> - <div class='line'>To Solhoug; ’twill profit you little, I fear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What, mean you, Dame Margit?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_222'>222</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Rising.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>I understand all—</div> - <div class='line'>I know why you come to my lonely hall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you welcome me not, though you know why I came?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Bowing, and about to go.</i></div> - <div class='line'>God’s peace and farewell, then, my noble dame!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To have stayed in the royal hall, indeed,</div> - <div class='line'>Sir Knight, had better become your fame.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stops.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the royal hall? Do you scoff at my need?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your need? You are ill to content, my friend;</div> - <div class='line'>Where, I would know, do you think to end?</div> - <div class='line'>You can dress you in velvet and cramoisie,</div> - <div class='line'>You stand by the throne, and have lands in fee—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Do you deem, then, that fortune is kind to me? -You said but now that full well you knew -What brought me to Solhoug—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>I told you true!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then you know what of late has befallen me;—</div> - <div class='line'>You have heard the tale of my outlawry?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_223'>223</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Terror-struck.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>An outlaw! You, Gudmund!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>I am indeed.</div> - <div class='line'>But I swear, by the Holy Christ I swear,</div> - <div class='line'>Had I known the thoughts of your heart, I ne’er</div> - <div class='line'>Had bent me to Solhoug in my need.</div> - <div class='line'>I thought that you still were gentle-hearted,</div> - <div class='line'>As you ever were wont to be ere we parted:</div> - <div class='line'>But I truckle not to you; the wood is wide,</div> - <div class='line'>My hand and my bow shall fend for me there;</div> - <div class='line'>I will drink of the mountain brook, and hide</div> - <div class='line'>My head in the wild beast’s lair.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>On the point of going.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Holding him back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Outlawed! Nay, stay! I swear to you</div> - <div class='line'>That naught of your outlawry I knew.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is as I tell you. My life’s at stake;</div> - <div class='line'>And to live are all men fain.</div> - <div class='line'>Three nights like a dog ’neath the sky I’ve lain,</div> - <div class='line'>My couch on the hillside forced to make,</div> - <div class='line'>With for pillow the boulder grey.</div> - <div class='line'>Though too proud to knock at the door of the stranger,</div> - <div class='line'>And pray him for aid in the hour of danger,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet strong was my hope as I held on my way:</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_224'>224</span>I thought: When to Solhoug you come at last</div> - <div class='line'>Then all your pains will be done and past.</div> - <div class='line'>You have sure friends there, whatever betide.—</div> - <div class='line'>But hope like a wayside flower shrivels up;</div> - <div class='line'>Though your husband met me with flagon and cup,</div> - <div class='line'>And his doors flung open wide,</div> - <div class='line'>Within, your dwelling seems chill and bare;</div> - <div class='line'>Dark is the hall; my friends are not there.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis well; I will back to my hills from your halls.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Beseechingly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, hear me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>My soul is not base as a thrall’s.</div> - <div class='line'>Now life to me seems a thing of nought;</div> - <div class='line'>Truly I hold it scarce worth a thought.</div> - <div class='line'>You have killed all that I hold most dear;</div> - <div class='line'>Of my fairest hopes I follow the bier.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell, then, Dame Margit!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Nay, Gudmund, hear!</div> - <div class='line'>By all that is holy—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Live on as before</div> - <div class='line'>Live on in honour and joyance—</div> - <div class='line'>Never shall Gudmund darken your door,</div> - <div class='line'>Never shall cause you ’noyance.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_225'>225</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Enough, enough. Your bitterness</div> - <div class='line'>You presently shall rue.</div> - <div class='line'>Had I known you outlawed, shelterless,</div> - <div class='line'>Hunted the country through—</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, the day that brought you here</div> - <div class='line'>Would have seemed the fairest of many a year;</div> - <div class='line'>And a feast I had counted it indeed</div> - <div class='line'>When you turned to Solhoug for refuge in need.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What say you—? How shall I read your mind?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Holding out her hand to him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Read this: that at Solhoug dwell kinsfolk kind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But you said of late—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>To that pay no heed.</div> - <div class='line'>Or hear me, and understand indeed.</div> - <div class='line'>For me is life but a long, black night,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor sun, nor star for me shines bright.</div> - <div class='line'>I have sold my youth and my liberty,</div> - <div class='line'>And none from my bargain can set me free.</div> - <div class='line'>My heart’s content I have bartered for gold,</div> - <div class='line'>With gilded chains I have fettered myself;</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, it is but comfort cold</div> - <div class='line'>To the sorrowful soul, the pride of pelf.</div> - <div class='line'>How blithe was my childhood—how free from care!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_226'>226</span>Our house was lowly and scant our store;</div> - <div class='line'>But treasures of hope in my breast I bore.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Whose eyes have been fixed upon her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>E’en then you were growing to beauty rare.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Mayhap; but the praises showered on me</div> - <div class='line'>Caused the wreck of my happiness—that I now see.</div> - <div class='line'>To far-off lands away you sailed;</div> - <div class='line'>But deep in my heart was graven each song</div> - <div class='line'>You had ever sung; and their glamour was strong;</div> - <div class='line'>With a mist of dreams my brow they veiled.</div> - <div class='line'>In them all the joys you had dwelt upon</div> - <div class='line'>That can find a home in the beating breast;</div> - <div class='line'>You had sung so oft of the lordly life</div> - <div class='line'>’Mid knights and ladies. And lo! anon</div> - <div class='line'>Came wooers a many from east and from west;</div> - <div class='line'>And so—I became Bengt Gauteson’s wife.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, Margit!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>The days that passed were but few</div> - <div class='line'>Ere with tears my folly I ’gan to rue.</div> - <div class='line'>To think, my kinsman and friend, on thee</div> - <div class='line'>Was all the comfort left to me.</div> - <div class='line'>How empty now seemed Solhoug’s hall,</div> - <div class='line'>How hateful and drear its great rooms all!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_227'>227</span>Hither came many a knight and dame,</div> - <div class='line'>Came many a skald to sing my fame.</div> - <div class='line'>But never a one who could fathom aright</div> - <div class='line'>My spirit and all its yearning—</div> - <div class='line'>I shivered, as though in the Hill-King’s might;</div> - <div class='line'>Yet my head throbbed, my blood was burning.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But your husband—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>He never to me was dear.</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas his gold was my undoing.</div> - <div class='line'>When he spoke to me, aye, or e’en drew near,</div> - <div class='line'>My spirit writhed with ruing.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Clasping her hands.</i></div> - <div class='line'>And thus have I lived for three long years—</div> - <div class='line'>A life of sorrow, of unstanched tears!</div> - <div class='line'>Your coming was rumoured. You know full well</div> - <div class='line'>What pride deep down in my heart doth dwell.</div> - <div class='line'>I hid my anguish, I veiled my woe,</div> - <div class='line'>For you were the last that the truth must know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Moved.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas therefore, then, that you turned away—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Not looking at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I thought you came at my woe to jeer.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Margit, how could you think—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_228'>228</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Nay, nay,</div> - <div class='line'>There was reason enough for such a fear.</div> - <div class='line'>But thanks be to Heaven, that fear is gone;</div> - <div class='line'>And now no longer I stand alone;</div> - <div class='line'>My spirit now is as light and free</div> - <div class='line'>As a child’s at play ’neath the greenwood tree.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With a sudden start of fear.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Ah, where are my wits fled! How could I forget—?</div> - <div class='line'>Ye saints, I need sorely your succor yet!</div> - <div class='line'>An outlaw, you said—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Nay, now I’m at home;</div> - <div class='line'>Hither the King’s men scarce dare come.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your fall has been sudden. I pray you, tell</div> - <div class='line'>How you lost the King’s favour.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>’Twas thus it befell.</div> - <div class='line'>You know how I journeyed to France of late,</div> - <div class='line'>When the Chancellor, Audun of Hegranes,</div> - <div class='line'>Fared thither from Bergen, in royal state,</div> - <div class='line'>To lead home the King’s bride, the fair Princess,</div> - <div class='line'>With her squires, and maidens, and ducats bright.</div> - <div class='line'>Sir Audun’s a fair and a stately knight,</div> - <div class='line'>The Princess shone with a beauty rare—</div> - <div class='line'>Her eyes seemed full of a burning prayer.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_229'>229</span>They would oft talk alone and in whispers, the two—</div> - <div class='line'>Of what? That nobody guessed or knew.</div> - <div class='line'>There came a night when I leant at ease</div> - <div class='line'>Against the galley’s railing;</div> - <div class='line'>My thoughts flew onward to Norway’s leas,</div> - <div class='line'>With the milk-white seagulls sailing.</div> - <div class='line'>Two voices whispered behind my back;—</div> - <div class='line'>I turned—it was he and she;</div> - <div class='line'>I knew them well, though the night was black,</div> - <div class='line'>But they—they saw not me.</div> - <div class='line'>She gazed upon him with sorrowful eyes</div> - <div class='line'>And whispered: “Ah, if to southern skies</div> - <div class='line'>We could turn the vessel’s prow,</div> - <div class='line'>And we were alone in the bark, we twain,</div> - <div class='line'>My heart, methinks, would find peace again,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor would fever burn my brow.”</div> - <div class='line'>Sir Audun answers; and straight she replies,</div> - <div class='line'>In words so fierce, so bold;</div> - <div class='line'>Like glittering stars I can see her eyes;</div> - <div class='line'>She begged him—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Breaking off.</i></div> - <div class='line in15'>My blood ran cold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She begged—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>I arose, and they vanished apace;</div> - <div class='line'>All was silent, fore and aft;—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Producing a small phial.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But this I found by their resting place.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_230'>230</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Lowering his voice.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Holds a secret draught.</div> - <div class='line'>A drop of this in your enemy’s cup</div> - <div class='line'>And his life will sicken and wither up.</div> - <div class='line'>No leechcraft helps ’gainst the deadly thing.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>That draught was meant for the King.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Great God!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Putting up the phial again.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>That I found it was well for them all.</div> - <div class='line'>In three days more was our voyage ended;</div> - <div class='line'>Then I fled, by my faithful men attended.</div> - <div class='line'>For I knew right well, in the royal hall,</div> - <div class='line'>That Audun subtly would work my fall,—</div> - <div class='line'>Accusing me—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Aye, but at Solhoug he</div> - <div class='line'>Cannot harm you. All as of old will be.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All? Nay, Margit—you then were free.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_231'>231</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>I? Nay, I meant naught. My brain</div> - <div class='line'>Is wildered; but ah, I am blithe and fain</div> - <div class='line'>To be, as of old, with you sisters twain.</div> - <div class='line'>But tell me,—Signë—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Points smiling towards the door on the left.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>She comes anon.</div> - <div class='line'>To greet her kinsman she needs must don</div> - <div class='line'>Her trinkets—a task that takes time, ’tis plain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I must see—I must see if she knows me again.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>He goes out to the left.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Following him-with her eyes.</i>] How fair -and manlike he is! [<i>With a sigh.</i>] There is -little likeness ’twixt him and—[<i>Begins putting -things in order on the table, but presently -stops.</i>] “You then were free,” he said. Yes, -then! [<i>A short pause.</i>] ’Twas a strange tale, -that of the Princess who—She held another -dear, and then—Aye, those women of far-off -lands—I have heard it before—they are not -weak as we are; they do not fear to pass from -thought to deed. [<i>Takes up a goblet which -stands on the table.</i>] ’Twas in this beaker that -Gudman and I, when he went away, drank to -his happy return. ’Tis well-nigh the only heirloom -I brought with me to Solhoug. [<i>Putting -the goblet away in a cupboard.</i>] How soft is -<span class='pageno' id='Page_232'>232</span>this summer day; and how light it is in here! -So sweetly has the sun not shone for three long -years.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Signë</span>, <i>and after her</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span>, <i>enters -from the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Runs laughing up to</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha, ha, ha! He will not believe that ’tis I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling, to</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You see: while in far-off lands you strayed,</div> - <div class='line'>She, too, has altered, the little maid.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aye truly! But that she should be—Why,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis a marvel in very deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Takes both</i> <span class='sc'>Signë’s</span> <i>hands and looks at her.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet, when I look in these eyes so blue,</div> - <div class='line'>The innocent child-mind I still can read—</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, Signë, I know that ’tis you!</div> - <div class='line'>I needs must laugh when I think how oft</div> - <div class='line'>I have thought of you perched on my shoulder aloft</div> - <div class='line'>As you used to ride. You were then a child;</div> - <div class='line'>Now you are a nixie, spell-weaving, wild.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Threatening with her finger.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Beware! If the nixie’s ire you awaken,</div> - <div class='line'>Soon in her nets you will find yourself taken.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_233'>233</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am snared already, it seems to me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But, Gudmund, wait—you have still to see</div> - <div class='line'>How I’ve shielded your harp from the dust and the rust.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>As she goes out to the left.</i></div> - <div class='line'>You shall teach me all of your songs! You must!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly, as he follows her with his eyes.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She has flushed to the loveliest rose of May,</div> - <div class='line'>That was yet but a bud in the morning’s ray.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Returning with the harp.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Behold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Taking it.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>My harp! As bright as of yore!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Striking one or two chords.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Still the old chords ring sweet and clear—</div> - <div class='line'>On the wall, untouched, thou shalt hang no more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking out at the back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Our guests are coming.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_234'>234</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>While</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>preludes his song.</i>]</p> - -<p class='c027'>Hush—hush! Oh, hear!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sings.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I roamed through the uplands so heavy of cheer;</div> - <div class='line'>The little birds quavered in bush and in brere;</div> - <div class='line'>The little birds quavered, around and above:</div> - <div class='line'>Wouldst know of the sowing and growing of love?</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It grows like the oak tree through slow-rolling years;</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis nourished by dreams, and by songs, and by tears;</div> - <div class='line'>But swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by,</div> - <div class='line'>Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>As he strikes the concluding chords, he -goes towards the back, where he lays -down his harp.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Thoughtfully, repeats to herself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by,</div> - <div class='line'>Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Absently.</i>] Did you speak to me?—I heard -not clearly—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_235'>235</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I? No, no. I only meant—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She again becomes absorbed in dreams.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Half aloud; looking straight before her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It grows like the oak tree through slow-rolling years;</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis nourished by dreams, and by songs and by tears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Returning to herself.</i>] You said that—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Drawing her hand over her brow.</i>] Nay, -’twas nothing. Come, we must go meet our -guests.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>enters with many</i> <span class='sc'>Guests</span>, <i>both -men and women, through the passageway.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guests.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sing.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With song and harping enter we</div> - <div class='line in4'>The feast-hall opened wide;</div> - <div class='line'>Peace to our hostess kind and free,</div> - <div class='line in4'>All happiness to her betide.</div> - <div class='line'>O’er Solhoug’s roof for ever may</div> - <div class='line in4'>Bright as to-day</div> - <div class='line in4'>The heavens abide.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_236'>236</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT SECOND</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>A birch grove adjoining the house, one corner of -which is seen to the left. At the back, a -footpath leads up the hillside. To the right -of the footpath a river comes tumbling down -a ravine and loses itself among boulders -and stones. It is a light summer evening. -The door leading to the house stands open; -the windows are lighted up. Music is heard -from within.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Guests.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Singing in the Feast Hall.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Set bow to fiddle! To sound of strings</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll dance till night shall furl her wings,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Through the long hours glad and golden!</div> - <div class='line'>Like blood-red blossom the maiden glows—</div> - <div class='line'>Come, bold young wooer and hold the rose</div> - <div class='line in2'>In a soft embrace enfolden.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Knut Gesling</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Erik of Heggë</span> <i>enter -from the house. Sounds of music, -dancing and merriment are heard from -within during what follows.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>If only you come not to repent it, Knut.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_237'>237</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is my affair.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, say what you will, ’tis a daring move. -You are the King’s Sheriff. Commands go forth -to you that you shall seize the person of Gudmund -Alfson, wherever you may find him. And -now, when you have him in your grasp, you -proffer him your friendship, and let him go -freely, whithersoever he will.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I know what I am doing. I sought him in his -own dwelling, but there he was not to be found. -If, now, I went about to seize him here—think -you that Dame Margit would be minded to give -me Signë to wife?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With deliberation.</i>] No, by fair means it -might scarcely be, but—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And by foul means I am loth to proceed. -Moreover, Gudmund is my friend from bygone -days; and he can be helpful to me. [<i>With decision.</i>] -Therefore it shall be as I have said. -This evening no one at Solhoug shall know that -Gudmund Alfson is an outlaw;—to-morrow he -must look to himself.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_238'>238</span><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, but the King’s decree?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, the King’s decree! You know as well as -I that the King’s decree is but little heeded here -in the uplands. Were the King’s decree to be -enforced, many a stout fellow among us would -have to pay dear both for bride-rape and for -man-slaying. Come this way, I would fain -know where Signë—?</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>They go out to the right.</i></div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>come down the footpath -at the back.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, speak! Say on! For sweeter far</div> - <div class='line'>Such words than sweetest music are.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Signë, my flower, my lily fair!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In subdued, but happy wonderment.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am dear to him—I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>As none other I swear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And is it I that can bind your will!</div> - <div class='line'>And is it I that your heart can fill!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, dare I believe you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_239'>239</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Indeed you may.</div> - <div class='line'>List to me, Signë! The years sped away,</div> - <div class='line'>But faithful was I in my thoughts to you,</div> - <div class='line'>My fairest flowers, ye sisters two.</div> - <div class='line'>My own heart I could not clearly read.</div> - <div class='line'>When I left, my Signë was but a child,</div> - <div class='line'>A fairy elf, like the creatures wild</div> - <div class='line'>Who play, while we sleep, in wood and mead.</div> - <div class='line'>But in Solhoug’s hall to-day, right loud</div> - <div class='line'>My heart spake, and right clearly;</div> - <div class='line'>It told me that Margit’s a lady proud,</div> - <div class='line'>Whilst you’re the sweet maiden I love most dearly.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Who has only half listened to his words.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I mind me, we sat in the hearth’s red glow,</div> - <div class='line'>One winter evening—’tis long ago—</div> - <div class='line'>And you sang to me of the maiden fair</div> - <div class='line'>Whom the neckan had lured to his watery lair.</div> - <div class='line'>There she forgot both father and mother,</div> - <div class='line'>There she forgot both sister and brother;</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven and earth and her Christian speech,</div> - <div class='line'>And her God, she forgot them all and each.</div> - <div class='line'>But close by the strand a stripling stood</div> - <div class='line'>And he was heartsore and heavy of mood.</div> - <div class='line'>He struck from his harpstrings notes of woe,</div> - <div class='line'>That wide o’er the waters rang loud, rang low.</div> - <div class='line'>The spell-bound maid in the tarn so deep,</div> - <div class='line'>His strains awoke from her heavy sleep.</div> - <div class='line'>The neckan must grant her release from his rule,</div> - <div class='line'>She rose through the lilies afloat on the pool—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_240'>240</span>Then looked she to heaven while on green earth she trod,</div> - <div class='line'>And wakened once more to her faith and her God.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Signë, my fairest of flowers!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>It seems</div> - <div class='line'>That I, too, have lived in a world of dreams.</div> - <div class='line'>But the strange deep words you to-night have spoken,</div> - <div class='line'>Of the power of love, have my slumber broken.</div> - <div class='line'>The heavens seemed never so blue to me,</div> - <div class='line'>Never the world so fair;</div> - <div class='line'>I can understand, as I roam with thee,</div> - <div class='line'>The song of the birds in air.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So mighty is love—it stirs in the breast</div> - <div class='line'>Thoughts and longings and happy unrest.</div> - <div class='line'>But come, let us both to your sister go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Would you tell her—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Everything she must know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then go you alone;—I feel that my cheek</div> - <div class='line'>Would be hot with blushes to hear you speak.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_241'>241</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So be it, I go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>And here will I bide;</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Listening towards the right.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Or better—down by the riverside,</div> - <div class='line'>I hear Knut Gesling, with maidens and men.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There will you stay?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Till you come again.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She goes out to the right.</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>goes -into the house.</i></p> - -<p class='c037'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>enters from behind the house on -the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the hall there is gladness and revelry;</div> - <div class='line'>The dancers foot it with jest and glee.</div> - <div class='line'>The air weighed hot on my brow and breast;</div> - <div class='line'>For Gudmund, he was not there.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She draws a deep breath.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Out here ’tis better: here’s quiet and rest.</div> - <div class='line'>How sweet is the cool night air!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>A brooding silence.</i></div> - <div class='line'>That horrible thought! Oh, why should it be</div> - <div class='line'>That wherever I go it follows me?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_242'>242</span>The phial—doth a secret draught contain;</div> - <div class='line'>A drop of this in my—enemy’s cup,</div> - <div class='line'>And his life would sicken and wither up;</div> - <div class='line'>The leech’s skill would be tried in vain.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Again a silence.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Were I sure that Gudmund—held me dear—</div> - <div class='line'>Then little I’d care for—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Gudmund enters from the house.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>You, Margit, here?</div> - <div class='line'>And alone? I have sought you everywhere.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis cool here. I sickened of heat and glare.</div> - <div class='line'>See you how yonder the white mists glide</div> - <div class='line'>Softly over the marshes wide?</div> - <div class='line'>Here it is neither dark nor light,</div> - <div class='line'>But midway between them—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To herself.</i></div> - <div class='line in23'>—as in my breast.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<i>Looking at him.</i></div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is’t not so—when you wander on such a night</div> - <div class='line'>You hear, though but half to yourself confessed,</div> - <div class='line'>A stirring of secret life through the hush,</div> - <div class='line'>In tree and in leaf, in flower and in rush?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With a sudden change of tone</i>.</div> - <div class='line'>Can you guess what I wish?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_243'>243</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>That I could be</div> - <div class='line'>The nixie that haunts yonder upland lea.</div> - <div class='line'>How cunningly I should weave my spell!</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Margit, what ails you? Tell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Paying no heed to him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How I should quaver my magic lay!</div> - <div class='line'>Quaver and croon it both night and day!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With growing vehemence.</i></div> - <div class='line'>How I would lure the knight so bold</div> - <div class='line'>Through the greenwood glades to my mountain hold.</div> - <div class='line'>There were the world and its woes forgot</div> - <div class='line'>In the burning joys of our blissful lot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Margit! Margit!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Ever more wildly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>At midnight’s hour</div> - <div class='line'>Sweet were our sleep in my lonely bower;—</div> - <div class='line'>And if death should come with the dawn, I trow</div> - <div class='line'>’Twere sweet to die so;—what thinkest thou?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You are sick!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_244'>244</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Bursting into laughter.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Ha, ha!—Let me laugh! ’Tis good</div> - <div class='line'>To laugh when the heart is in laughing mood!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I see that you still have the same wild soul</div> - <div class='line'>As of old—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With sudden seriousness.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Nay, let not that vex your mind,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis only at midnight it mocks control;</div> - <div class='line'>By day I am timid as any hind.</div> - <div class='line'>How tame I have grown, you yourself must say,</div> - <div class='line'>When you think on the women in lands far away—</div> - <div class='line'>Of that fair Princess—ah, <em class='gesperrt'>she</em> was wild!</div> - <div class='line'>Beside her lamblike am I and mild.</div> - <div class='line'>She did not helplessly yearn and brood,</div> - <div class='line'>She would have acted; and that—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>’Tis good</div> - <div class='line'>You remind me; straightway I’ll cast away</div> - <div class='line'>What to me is valueless after this day—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'>[<i>Takes out the phial.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The phial! You meant—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_245'>245</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>I thought it might be</div> - <div class='line'>At need a friend that should set me free</div> - <div class='line'>Should the King’s men chance to lay hands on me.</div> - <div class='line'>But from to-night it has lost its worth;</div> - <div class='line'>Now will I fight all the kings of earth,</div> - <div class='line'>Gather my kinsfolk and friends to the strife,</div> - <div class='line'>And battle right stoutly for freedom and life.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Is about to throw the phial against a rock.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Seizing his arm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, hold! Let me have it—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>First tell me why?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’d fain fling it down to the neckan hard by,</div> - <div class='line'>Who so often has made my dull hours fleet</div> - <div class='line'>With his harping and songs, so strange and sweet.</div> - <div class='line'>Give it me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'>[<i>Takes the phial from his hand.</i></p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>There!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'>[<i>Feigns to throw it into the river.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Goes to the right, and looks down into the -ravine.</i>]</p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Have you thrown it away?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_246'>246</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Concealing the phial.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aye, surely! You saw—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Whispers as she goes towards the house.</i></div> - <div class='line in24'>Now God help and spare me!</div> - <div class='line'>The ice must now either break or bear me!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Aloud.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Gudmund!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaching</i>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>What would you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Teach me, I pray,</div> - <div class='line'>How to interpret the ancient lay</div> - <div class='line'>They sing of the church in the valley there:</div> - <div class='line'>A gentle knight and a lady fair,</div> - <div class='line'>They loved each other well.</div> - <div class='line'>That very day on her bier she lay</div> - <div class='line'>He on his sword-point fell.</div> - <div class='line'>They buried her by the northward spire,</div> - <div class='line'>And him by the south kirk wall;</div> - <div class='line'>And theretofore grew neither bush nor briar</div> - <div class='line'>In the hallowed ground at all.</div> - <div class='line'>But next spring from their coffins twain</div> - <div class='line'>Two lilies fair upgrew—</div> - <div class='line'>And by and by, o’er the roof-tree high,</div> - <div class='line'>They twined and they bloomed the whole year through.</div> - <div class='line'>How read you the riddle?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_247'>247</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks searchingly at her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I scarce can say.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You may doubtless read it in many a way;</div> - <div class='line'>But its truest meaning, methinks, is clear:</div> - <div class='line'>The church can never sever two that hold each other dear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ye saints, if she should—? Lest worse befall,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis time indeed I told her all!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Aloud.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Do you wish for my happiness—Margit, tell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In joyful agitation.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wish for it! I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Then, wot you well,</div> - <div class='line'>The joy of my life now rests with you—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With an outburst.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Gudmund!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Listen! ’tis time you knew—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>He stops suddenly.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Voices and laughter are heard by the river -bank.</i> <span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>and some other</i> <span class='sc'>Girls</span> <i>enter -<span class='pageno' id='Page_248'>248</span>from the right, accompanied by</i> -<span class='sc'>Knut, Erik</span> <i>and several</i> <span class='sc'>Younger -Men.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Still at a distance.</i>] Gudmund Alfson! -Wait; I must speak a word with you.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>He stops, talking to</i> <span class='sc'>Erik.</span> <i>The other</i> -<span class='sc'>Guests</span> <i>in the meantime enter the -house.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] The joy of his life—! What -else can he mean but—! [<i>Half aloud.</i>] Signë—my -dear, dear sister!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>She puts her arm round <span class='sc'>Signë’s</span> waist, -and they go towards the back talking -to each other.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, as he follows them with his eyes.</i>]</p> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, so it were wisest. Both Signë and I must -away from Solhoug. Knut Gesling has shown -himself my friend; he will help me.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, to</i> <span class='sc'>Erik.</span>] Yes, yes, I say, Gudmund -is her kinsman; he can best plead my cause.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, as you will. [<i>He goes into the house.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Approaching.</i>] Listen, Gudmund—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_249'>249</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling.</i>] Come you to tell me that you -dare no longer let me go free.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Dare! Be at your ease as to that. Knut -Gesling dares whatever he will. No, ’tis another -matter. You know that here in the district, -I am held to be a wild, unruly companion—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, and if rumour lies not—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why no, much that it reports may be true -enough. But now, I must tell you—</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>They go, conversing, up towards the back.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit</span>, <i>as they come forward beside -the house.</i>] I understand you not. You speak -as though an unlooked-for happiness had befallen -you. What is in your mind?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Signë—you are still a child; you know not -what it means to have ever in your heart the -dread of—[<i>Suddenly breaking off.</i>] Think, -Signë, what it must be to wither and die without -ever having lived.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_250'>250</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks at her in astonishment, and shakes her -head.</i>] Nay, but, Margit—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, aye, you do not understand, but none the -less—</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>They go up again, talking to each other.</i> -<span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Knut</span> <i>come down on the -other side.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Well, if so it be—if this wild life no longer -contents you—then I will give you the best -counsel that ever friend gave to friend: take to -wife an honourable maiden.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Say you so? And if I now told you that ’tis -even that I have in mind?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good luck and happiness to you then, Knut -Gesling! And now you must know that I -too—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You? Are you, too, so purposed?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, truly. But the King’s wrath;—I am a -banished man—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_251'>251</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, to that you need give but little thought. -As yet there is no one here, save Dame Margit, -that knows aught of the matter; and so long as -I am your friend, you have one in whom you -can trust securely. Now I must tell you—</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>He proceeds in a whisper as they go up -again.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As she and</i> <span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>again advance.</i>] But -tell me then, Margit—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>More I dare not tell you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then will I be more open-hearted than you. -But first answer me one question. [<i>Bashfully, -with hesitation.</i>] Is there—is there no one who -has told you anything concerning me?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Concerning you? Nay, what should that be?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As before, looking downwards.</i>] You said -to me this morning: if a wooer came riding -hither—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is true. [<i>To herself.</i>] Knut Gesling—has -he already—? [<i>Eagerly, to</i> <span class='sc'>Signë.</span>] Well? -What then?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_252'>252</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, but with exultation.</i>] The wooer has -come! He has come, Margit! I knew not then -whom you meant; but now—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And what have you answered him?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, how should I know? [<i>Flinging her arms -round her sister’s neck.</i>] But the world seems -to me so rich and beautiful since the moment -when he told me that he held me dear.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why, Signë, Signë, I cannot understand that -you should so quickly—! You scarce knew him -before to-day.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, ’tis but little I yet know of love; but this</div> - <div class='line'>I know that what the song says is true:</div> - <div class='line'>Full swiftly ’tis sown; ere a moment speeds by,</div> - <div class='line'>Deep, deep in the heart love is rooted for aye—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>So be it; and since so it is, I need no longer -hold aught concealed from you. Ah—</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>She stops suddenly, as she sees</i> <span class='sc'>Knut</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>approaching.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_253'>253</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a tone of satisfaction.</i>] Ha, this is as I -would have it, Gudmund. Here is my hand!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] What is this?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] And here is mine!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>They shake hands.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But now we must each of us name who it -is—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good. Here at Solhoug, among so many fair -women, I have found her whom—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I too. And I will bear her home this very -night, if it be needful.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has approached unobserved.</i>] All -saints in heaven!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Nods to</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] The same is my intent!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who has also been listening.</i>] Gudmund!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_254'>254</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund and Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispering to each other, as they both point -at</i> <span class='sc'>Signë.</span>] There she is!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Starting.</i>] Aye, mine.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Likewise.</i>] No, mine!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, half bewildered.</i>] Signë!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>As before, to</i> <span class='sc'>Knut.</span>] What mean you by -that?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I mean that ’tis Signë whom I—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Signë! Signë is my betrothed in the sight of -God.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>With a cry.</i>] It was she! No—no!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself, as he catches sight of her.</i>] -Margit! She has heard everything.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_255'>255</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ho, ho! So this is how it stands? Nay, -Dame Margit, ’tis needless to put on such an -air of wonder; now I understand everything.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Signë.</span>] But not a moment ago you -said—? [<i>Suddenly grasping the situation.</i>] -’Twas Gudmund you meant!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Astonished.</i>] Yes, did you not know it! -But what ails you, Margit?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In an almost toneless voice.</i>] Nay, nothing, -nothing.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] And this morning, when you -made me give my word that I would stir no -strife here to-night—you already knew that -Gudmund Alfson was coming. Ha, ha, think -not that you can hoodwink Knut Gesling! Signë -has become dear to me. Even this morning ’twas -but my hasty vow that drove me to seek her -hand; but now—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] He? Was <em class='gesperrt'>this</em> the wooer -that was in your mind?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hush, hush!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_256'>256</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Firmly and harshly.</i>] Dame Margit—you -are her elder sister; you shall give me an answer.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Battling with herself.</i>] Signë has already -made her choice;—I have naught to answer.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good; then I have nothing more to do at -Solhoug. But after midnight—mark you this—the -day is at an end; then you may chance to see -me again, and then Fortune must decide whether -it be Gudmund or I that shall bear Signë away -from this house.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, try if you dare; it shall cost you a -bloody sconce.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In terror.</i>] Gudmund! By all the saints—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Gently, gently, Gudmund Alfson! Ere sunrise -you shall be in my power. And she—your -lady-love—[<i>Goes up to the door, beckons and -calls in a low voice.</i>] Erik! Erik! come hither! -we must away to our kinsfolk. [<i>Threateningly, -while</i> <span class='sc'>Erik</span> <i>shows himself in the doorway.</i>] -Woe upon you all when I come again!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>He and</i> <span class='sc'>Erik</span> <i>go off to the left at the back.</i>]</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_257'>257</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly to</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>] Oh, tell me, what -does all this mean?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispering.</i>] We must both leave Solhoug -this very night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God shield me—you would—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Say nought of it! No word to any one, not -even to your sister.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] She—it is she! She of whom -he had scarce thought before to-night. Had I -been free, I know well whom he had chosen.—Aye, -free!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Guests</span>, <i>both Men and Women, -enter from the house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Young Men and Maidens.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Out here, out here be the feast arrayed,</div> - <div class='line'>While the birds are asleep in the greenwood shade.</div> - <div class='line'>How sweet to sport in the flowery glade</div> - <div class='line'>’Neath the birches.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Out here, out here, shall be mirth and jest,</div> - <div class='line'>No sigh on the lips and no care in the breast,</div> - <div class='line'>When the fiddle is tuned at the dancers’ ’hest,</div> - <div class='line'>’Neath the birches.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_258'>258</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is well, that is well! So I fain would -see it! I am merry, and my wife likewise; and -therefore I pray ye all to be merry along with -us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>One of the Guests.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Aye, now let us have a stave-match.<a id='r25' /><a href='#f25' class='c016'><sup>[25]</sup></a></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Shout.</i>] Yes, yes, a stave-match!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another Guest.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, let that be; it leads but to strife at the -feast. [<i>Lowering his voice.</i>] Bear in mind that -Knut Gesling is with us to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whispering among themselves.</i>] Aye, aye, -that is true. Remember the last time, how he—. -Best beware.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Old Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But you, Dame Margit—I know your kin had -ever wealth of tales in store; and you yourself, -even as a child, knew many a fair legend.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Alas! I have forgot them all. But ask Gudmund -Alfson, my kinsman; he knows a tale that -is merry enough.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_259'>259</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In a low voice, imploringly.</i>] Margit!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why, what a pitiful countenance you put on! -Be merry, Gudmund! Be merry! Aye, aye, it -comes easy to you, well I wot. [<i>Laughing, to -the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests.</span>] He has seen the huldra to-night. -She would fain have tempted him; but Gudmund -is a faithful swain. [<i>Turns again to</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>] -Aye, but the tale is not finished yet. -When you bear away your lady-love, over hill -and through forest, be sure you turn not round; -be sure you never look back—the huldra sits -laughing behind every bush; and when all is -done—[<i>In a low voice, coming close up to -him.</i>]—you will go no further than she will -let you. [<i>She crosses to the right.</i>]</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, God! Oh, God!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Going around among the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests</span> <i>in high contentment.</i>] -Ha, ha, ha! Dame Margit knows -how to set the mirth afoot! When she takes it -in hand, she does it much better than I.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] She threatens! I must tear -the last hope out of her breast; else will peace -never come to her mind. [<i>Turns to the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests.</span>] -<span class='pageno' id='Page_260'>260</span>I mind me of a little song. If it please you to -hear it—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several of the Guests.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Thanks, thanks, Gudmund Alfson!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>They close around him, some sitting, -others standing.</i> <span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>leans against -a tree in front on the right.</i> <span class='sc'>Signë</span> -<i>stands on the left, near the house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sings.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I rode into the wildwood,</div> - <div class='line in2'>I sailed across the sea,</div> - <div class='line'>But ’twas at home I wooed and won</div> - <div class='line in2'>A maiden fair and free.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was the Queen of Elfland,</div> - <div class='line in2'>She waxed full wroth and grim:</div> - <div class='line'>Never, she swore, shall that maiden fair</div> - <div class='line in2'>Ride to the church with him.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hear me, thou Queen of Elfland.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Vain, vain are threat and spell;</div> - <div class='line'>For naught can sunder two true hearts</div> - <div class='line in2'>That love each other well!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Old Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That is a right fair song. See how the young -swains cast their glances thitherward! [<i>Pointing -towards the</i> <span class='sc'>Girls.</span>] Aye, aye, doubtless -each has his own.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_261'>261</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Making eyes at</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] Yes, I have mine, -that is sure enough. Ha, ha, ha!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself, quivering.</i>] To have to suffer -all this shame and scorn! No, no; now to essay -the last remedy!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What ails you? Meseems you look so pale.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twill soon pass over. [<i>Turns to the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests.</span>] -Did I say e’en now that I had forgotten all my -tales? I bethink me now that I remember one.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good, good, my wife! Come, let us hear it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Young Girls.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Urgently.</i>] Yes, tell it us, tell it us, Dame -Margit!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I almost fear that ’twill little please you; but -that must be as it may.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Saints in heaven, surely she -would not—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_262'>262</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was a fair and noble maid,</div> - <div class='line'>She dwelt in her father’s hall;</div> - <div class='line'>Both linen and silk did she broider and braid,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet found in it solace small.</div> - <div class='line'>For she sat there alone in cheerless state,</div> - <div class='line'>Empty were hall and bower;</div> - <div class='line'>In the pride of her heart, she was fain to mate</div> - <div class='line'>With a chieftain of pelf and power.</div> - <div class='line'>But now ’twas the Hill King, he rode from the north,</div> - <div class='line'>With his henchmen and his gold;</div> - <div class='line'>On the third day at night he in triumph fared forth,</div> - <div class='line'>Bearing <em class='gesperrt'>her</em> to his mountain hold.</div> - <div class='line'>Full many a summer she dwelt in the hill;</div> - <div class='line'>Out of beakers of gold she could drink at her will.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, fair are the flowers of the valley, I trow,</div> - <div class='line'>But only in dreams can she gather them now!</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas a youth, right gentle and bold to boot,</div> - <div class='line'>Struck his harp with such magic might</div> - <div class='line'>That it rang to the mountain’s inmost root,</div> - <div class='line'>Where she languished in the night.</div> - <div class='line'>The sound in her soul waked a wondrous mood—</div> - <div class='line'>Wide open the mountain-gates seemed to stand;</div> - <div class='line'>The peace of God lay over the land,</div> - <div class='line'>And she saw how it all was fair and good.</div> - <div class='line'>There had happened what never had happened before;</div> - <div class='line'>She had wakened to life as his harp-strings thrilled;</div> - <div class='line'>And her eyes were opened to all the store</div> - <div class='line'>Of treasure wherewith the good earth is filled.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_263'>263</span>For mark this well: it hath ever been found</div> - <div class='line'>That those who in caverns deep lie bound</div> - <div class='line'>Are lightly freed by the harp’s glad sound.</div> - <div class='line'>He saw her prisoned, he heard her wail—</div> - <div class='line'>But he cast unheeding his harp aside,</div> - <div class='line'>Hoisted straightway his silken sail,</div> - <div class='line'>And sped away o’er the waters wide</div> - <div class='line'>To stranger strands with his new-found bride.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With ever-increasing passion.</i></div> - <div class='line'>So fair was thy touch on the golden strings</div> - <div class='line'>That my breast heaves high and my spirit sings!</div> - <div class='line'>I must out, I must out to the sweet green leas!</div> - <div class='line'>I die in the Hill-King’s fastnesses!</div> - <div class='line'>He mocks at my woe as he clasps his bride</div> - <div class='line'>And sails away o’er the waters wide!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Shrieks.</i></div> - <div class='line'>With me all is over; my hill-prison barred;</div> - <div class='line'>Unsunned is the day, and the night all unstarred.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She totters and, fainting, seeks to support -herself against the trunk of a tree.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Weeping, has rushed up to her, and takes -her in her arms.</i>] Margit! My sister!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>At the same time, supporting her.</i>] Help! -Help! she is dying!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>and the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests</span> <i>flock round them -with cries of alarm.</i></p> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_264'>264</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT THIRD</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>The hall at Solhoug as before, but now in disorder -after the feast. It is night still, but -with a glimmer of approaching dawn in the -room and over the landscape without.</i></p> - -<p class='c029'><span class='sc'>Bengt</span> <i>stands outside in the passage-way, with -a beaker of ale in his hand. A party of</i> -<span class='sc'>Guests</span> <i>are in the act of leaving the house. -In the room a</i> <span class='sc'>Maid-Servant</span> <i>is restoring -order.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c034'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calls to the departing</i> <span class='sc'>Guests.</span>] God speed -you, then, and bring you back ere long to Solhoug. -Methinks you, like the rest, might have -stayed and slept till morning. Well, well! Yet -hold—I’ll e’en go with you to the gate. I must -drink your healths once more.</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>He goes out.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guests.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sing in the distance.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell, and God’s blessing on one and all</div> - <div class='line in2'>Beneath this roof abiding!</div> - <div class='line'>The road must be faced. To the fiddler we call:</div> - <div class='line in2'>Tune up! Our cares deriding,</div> - <div class='line in4'>With dance and with song</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll shorten the way so weary and long.</div> - <div class='line in4'>Right merrily off we go.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>The song dies away in the distance.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>enters the hall by the door on the -right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_265'>265</span><span class='sc'>Maid.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>God save us, my lady, have you left your bed?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am well. Go you and sleep. Stay—tell -me, are the guests all gone?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Maid.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>No, not all; some wait till later in the day; -ere now they are sleeping sound.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And Gudmund Alfson—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Maid.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He, too, is doubtless asleep. [<i>Points to the -right.</i>] ’Tis some time since he went to his -chamber—yonder, across the passage.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good; you may go.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Maid</span> <i>goes out to the left.</i></div> - -<p class='c027'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>walks slowly across the hall, seats -herself by the table on the right, and -gazes out at the open window.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To-morrow, then, Gudmund will ride away</div> - <div class='line'>Out into the world so great and wide.</div> - <div class='line'>Alone with my husband here I must stay;</div> - <div class='line'>And well do I know what will then betide.</div> - <div class='line'>Like the broken branch and the trampled flower</div> - <div class='line'>I shall suffer and fade from hour to hour.</div> - <div class='c036'><span class='pageno' id='Page_266'>266</span>[<i>Short pause; she leans back in her chair.</i></div> - <div class='line'>I once heard a tale of a child blind from birth,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose childhood was full of joy and mirth;</div> - <div class='line'>For the mother, with spells of magic might,</div> - <div class='line'>Wove for the dark eyes a world of light.</div> - <div class='line'>And the child looked forth with wonder and glee</div> - <div class='line'>Upon valley and hill, upon land and sea.</div> - <div class='line'>Then suddenly the witchcraft failed—</div> - <div class='line'>The child once more was in darkness pent;</div> - <div class='line'>Good-bye to games and merriment;</div> - <div class='line'>With longing vain the red cheeks paled.</div> - <div class='line'>And its wail of woe, as it pined away,</div> - <div class='line'>Was ceaseless, and sadder than words can say.—</div> - <div class='line'>Oh! like that child’s my eyes were sealed,</div> - <div class='line'>To the light and the life of summer blind—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She springs up.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But <em class='gesperrt'>now</em>—! And I in this cage confined!</div> - <div class='line'>No, now is the worth of my youth revealed!</div> - <div class='line'>Three years of life I on him have spent—</div> - <div class='line'>My husband—but were I longer content</div> - <div class='line'>This hapless, hopeless weird to dree,</div> - <div class='line'>Meek as a dove I needs must be.</div> - <div class='line'>I am wearied to death of petty brawls;</div> - <div class='line'>The stirring life of the great world calls.</div> - <div class='line'>I will follow Gudmund with shield and bow,</div> - <div class='line'>I will share his joys, I will soothe his woe,</div> - <div class='line'>Watch o’er him both by night and day.</div> - <div class='line'>All that behold shall envy the life</div> - <div class='line'>Of the valiant knight and Margit his wife.—</div> - <div class='line'>His wife!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Wrings her hands.</i></div> - <div class='line in10'>Oh God, what is this I say!</div> - <div class='line'>Forgive me, forgive me, and oh! let me feel</div> - <div class='line'>The peace that hath power both to soothe and to heal.</div> - <div class='c036'><span class='pageno' id='Page_267'>267</span>[<i>Walks back and forward, brooding silently.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Signë, my sister—? How hateful ’twere</div> - <div class='line'>To steal her glad young life from her!</div> - <div class='line'>But who can tell? In very sooth</div> - <div class='line'>She may love him but with the light love of youth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Again silence; she takes out the little -phial, looks long at it and says under -her breath:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This phial—were I its powers to try—</div> - <div class='line'>My husband would sleep for ever and aye!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Horror-struck.</i></div> - <div class='line'>No, no! To the river’s depths with it straight!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>In the act of throwing it out of the window, -stops.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet I could—’tis not yet too late.—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>With an expression of mingled horror and -rapture, whispers.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With what a magic resistless might</div> - <div class='line'>Sin masters us in our own despite!</div> - <div class='line'>Doubly alluring methinks is the goal</div> - <div class='line'>I must reach through blood, with the wreck of my soul.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Bengt</span>, <i>with the empty beaker in his hand, -comes in from the passage-way; his -face is red; he staggers slightly.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Flinging the beaker upon the table on the -left.</i>] My faith, this has been a feast that will -be the talk of the country. <span class='float-right'>[<i>Sees</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>]</span> -<span class='pageno' id='Page_268'>268</span>Eh, are you there? You are well again. Good, -good.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who in the meantime has concealed the -phial.</i>] Is the door barred?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Seating himself at the table on the left.</i>] I -have seen to everything. I went with the last -guests as far as the gates. But what became -of Knut Gesling to-night?—Give me mead, Margit! -I am thirsty. Fill this cup.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>fetches a flagon of mead from a -cupboard, and fills the goblet which is -on the table in front of him.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Crossing to the right with the flagon.</i>] You -asked about Knut Gesling.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>That I did. The boaster, the braggart! I -have not forgot his threats of yester-morning.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He used worse words when he left to-night.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He did? So much the better. I will strike -him dead.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Smiling contemptuously.</i>] H’m—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_269'>269</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I will kill him, I say! I fear not to face ten -such fellows as he. In the store-house hangs my -grandfather’s axe; its shaft is inlaid with silver; -with that axe in my hands, I tell you—! -[<i>Thumps the table and drinks.</i>] To-morrow I -shall arm myself, go forth with all my men, and -slay Knut Gesling.</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>Empties the beaker.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To herself.</i>] Oh, to have to live with him!</p> -<div class='c028'>[<i>Is in the act of leaving the room.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Margit, come here! Fill my cup again. [<i>She -approaches; he tries to draw her down on to his -knee.</i>] Ha, ha, ha! You are right fair, Margit! -I love you well!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Freeing herself.</i>] Let me go!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Crosses, with the goblet in her hand, to -the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>You are not in the humour to-night. Ha, ha, -ha! That means no great matter, I know.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Softly, as she fills the goblet.</i>] Oh, that -this might be the last beaker I should fill for -you.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>She leaves the goblet on the table and is -making her way out to the left.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_270'>270</span><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Hark to me, Margit. For one thing you may -thank Heaven, and that is, that I made you my -wife before Gudmund Alfson came back.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Stops at the door.</i>] Why so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Why, say you? Am not I ten times the richer -man? And certain I am that he would have -sought you for his wife, had you not been the -mistress of Solhoug.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Drawing nearer and glancing at the goblet.</i>] -Say you so?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I could take my oath upon it. Bengt Gauteson -has two sharp eyes in his head. But he -may still have Signë.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And you think he will—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Take her? Aye, since he cannot have you. -But had you been free,—then—Ha, ha, ha! -Gudmund is like the rest. He envies me my -wife. That is why I set such store by you, -Margit. Here with the goblet again. And let -it be full to the brim!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_271'>271</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Goes unwillingly across to the right.</i>] You -shall have it straightway.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Knut Gesling is a suitor for Signë, too, but -him I am resolved to slay. Gudmund is an honourable -man; he shall have her. Think, Margit, -what good days we shall have with them for -neighbours. We will go a-visiting each other, -and then will we sit the live-long day, each -with his wife on his knee, drinking and talking -of this and of that.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Whose mental struggle is visibly becoming -more severe, involuntarily takes out the phial as -she says:</i>] No doubt, no doubt!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Ha, ha, ha! it may be that at first Gudmund -will look askance at me when I take you in my -arms; but that, I doubt not, he will soon get -over.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>This is more than woman can bear! [<i>Pours -the contents of the phial into the goblet, goes to -the window and throws out the phial, then says, -without looking at him.</i>] Your beaker is full.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then bring it hither!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_272'>272</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Battling in an agony of indecision, at last -says.</i>] I pray you drink no more to-night!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Leans back in his chair and laughs.</i>] Oho! -You are impatient for my coming? Get you in; -I will follow you soon.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Suddenly decided.</i>] Your beaker is full. -[<i>Points.</i>] There it is.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>She goes quickly out to the left.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Rising.</i>] I like her well. It repents me -not a whit that I took her to wife, though of -heritage she owned no more than yonder goblet -and the brooches of her wedding gown.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>He goes to the table at the window and -takes the goblet.</i></p> -</div> -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A</i> <span class='sc'>House-Carl</span> <i>enters hurriedly and with -scared looks, from the back.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calls.</i>] Sir Bengt, Sir Bengt! haste forth -with all the speed you can! Knut Gesling with -an armed train is drawing near the house.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Putting down the goblet.</i>] Knut Gesling? -Who brings the tidings?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_273'>273</span><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Some of your guests espied him on the road -beneath, and hastened back to warn you.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Bengt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>E’en so. Then will I—! Fetch me my -grandfather’s battle-axe!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>He and the</i> <span class='sc'>House-Carl</span>, <i>go out at the -back.</i></p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Soon after,</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>enter -quietly and cautiously by the door on -the right.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In muffled tones.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It must, then, be so!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Also softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Necessity’s might</div> - <div class='line'>Constrains us.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Oh! thus under cover of night</div> - <div class='line'>To steal from the valley where I was born!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Dries her eyes.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Yet shalt thou hear no plaint forlorn.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis for thy sake my home I flee;</div> - <div class='line'>Wert thou not outlawed, Gudmund dear,</div> - <div class='line'>I’d stay with my sister.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_274'>274</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Only to be</div> - <div class='line'>Ta’en by Knut Gesling, with bow and spear,</div> - <div class='line'>Swung on the croup of his battle-horse,</div> - <div class='line'>And made his wife by force.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Quick, let us flee. But whither go?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Down by the fiord a friend I know;</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll find us a ship. O’er the salt sea foam</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll sail away south to Denmark’s bowers.</div> - <div class='line'>There waits you there a happy home;</div> - <div class='line'>Right joyously will fleet the hours;</div> - <div class='line'>The fairest of flowers they bloom in the shade</div> - <div class='line'>Of the beech-tree glade.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Bursts into tears.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell, my poor sister! Like mother tender</div> - <div class='line'>Thou hast guarded the ways my feet have trod,</div> - <div class='line'>Hast guided my footsteps, aye praying to God,</div> - <div class='line'>The Almighty, to be my defender.—</div> - <div class='line'>Gudmund—here is a goblet filled with mead;</div> - <div class='line'>Let us drink to her; let us wish that ere long</div> - <div class='line'>Her soul may again be calm and strong,</div> - <div class='line'>And that God may be good to her need.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She takes the goblet into her hands.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_275'>275</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aye, let us drain it, naming her name!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Starts.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Stop!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Takes the goblet from her.</i></div> - <div class='line in6'>For meseems it is the same—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis Margit’s beaker.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Examining it carefully.</i>]</p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>By Heaven, ’tis so!</div> - <div class='line'>I mind me still of the red wine’s glow</div> - <div class='line'>As she drank from it on the day we parted</div> - <div class='line'>To our meeting again in health and glad-hearted.</div> - <div class='line'>To herself that draught betided woe.</div> - <div class='line'>No, Signë, ne’er drink wine or mead</div> - <div class='line'>From that goblet.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pours its contents out at the window.</i></div> - <div class='line in16'>We must away with all speed.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Tumult and calls without, at the back.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>List, Gudmund! Voices and trampling feet!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Knut Gesling’s voice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>O save us, Lord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_276'>276</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Places himself in front of her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, nay, fear nothing, Signë sweet—</div> - <div class='line'>I am here, and my good sword.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c035'>[<span class='sc'>Margit</span> <i>comes in in haste from the left.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Listening to the noise.</i>] What means this? -Is my husband—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund and Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Margit!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Catches sight of them.</i>] Gudmund! And -Signë! Are you here?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Going towards her.</i>] Margit—dear sister!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Appalled, having seen the goblet which <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> -still holds in his hand.</i>] The goblet! -Who has drunk from it?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Confused.</i>] Drunk—? I and Signë—we -meant—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Screams.</i>] O God, have mercy! Help! -Help! They will die.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_277'>277</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Setting down the goblet.</i>] Margit—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What ails you, sister?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Towards the back.</i>] Help, help! Will no -one help?</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>A</i> <span class='sc'>House-Carl</span> <i>rushes in from the passage-way.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Calls in a terrified voice.</i>] Lady Margit! -Your husband—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He—has he, too, drunk—!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To himself.</i>] Ah! now I understand—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Knut Gesling has slain him.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Slain!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Drawing his sword.</i>] Not yet, I hope. -[<i>Whispers to</i> <span class='sc'>Margit.</span>] Fear not. No one has -drunk from your goblet.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_278'>278</span><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Then thanks be to God, who has saved us all!</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>She sinks down on a chair to the left.</i> -<span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>hastens towards the door at -the back.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Enters, stopping him.</i>] You come too late. -Sir Bengt is dead.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Too late, then, too late.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The guests and your men have prevailed -against the murderous crew. Knut Gesling and -his men are prisoners. Here they come.</p> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Gudmund’s</span> <i>men, and a number of</i> <span class='sc'>Guests</span> -<i>and</i> <span class='sc'>House-Carls</span>, <i>lead in</i> <span class='sc'>Knut Gesling</span>, -<span class='sc'>Erik of Heggë</span>, <i>and several of</i> -<span class='sc'>Knut’s</span> <i>men, bound</i>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Who is pale, says in a low voice.</i>] Manslayer, -Gudmund. What say you to that?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Knut, Knut, what have you done?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>’Twas a mischance, of that I can take my -oath.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_279'>279</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>He ran at me swinging his axe; I meant but -to defend myself, and struck the death-blow unawares.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Many here saw all that befell.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Lady Margit, crave what fine you will. I am -ready to pay it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I crave naught. God will judge us all. Yet -stay—one thing I require. Forgo your evil design -upon my sister.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Never again shall I essay to redeem my baleful -pledge. From this day onward I am a better -man. Yet would I fain escape dishonourable -punishment for my deed. [<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>] -Should you be restored to favour and place -again, say a good word for me to the King!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I? Ere the sun sets, I must have left the -country.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Astonishment amongst the</i> <span class='sc'>Guests.</span> <span class='sc'>Erik</span>, -<i>in whispers, explains the situation.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span>] You go? And Signë with -you?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_280'>280</span><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Beseechingly.</i>] Margit!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Good fortune follow you both!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Flinging her arms round</i> <span class='sc'>Margit’s</span> <i>neck.</i>]</p> - -<p class='c027'>Dear sister!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Margit, I thank you. And now farewell. -[<i>Listening.</i>] Hush! I hear the tramp of hoofs -in the court-yard.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Apprehensively.</i>] Strangers have arrived.</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>A</i> <span class='sc'>House-Carl</span> <i>appears in the doorway at -the back.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>House-Carl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The King’s men are without. They seek -Gudmund Alfson.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh God!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>In great alarm.</i>] The King’s men!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>All is at an end, then. Oh Signë, to lose you -now—could there be a harder fate?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_281'>281</span><span class='sc'>Knut.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Nay, Gudmund; sell your life dearly, man! -Unbind us; we are ready to fight for you, one -and all.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Erik.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Looks out.</i>] ’Twould be in vain; they are -too many for us.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Here they come. Oh Gudmund, Gudmund!</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>King’s Messenger</span> <i>enters from the -back, with his escort.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Messenger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>In the King’s name I seek you, Gudmund -Alfson, and bring you his behests.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Be it so. Yet am I guiltless; I swear it by -all that is holy!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Messenger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>We know it.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>What say you?</p> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>Agitation amongst those present.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Messenger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I am ordered to bid you as a guest to the -King’s house. His friendship is yours as it -was before, and along with it he bestows on you -rich fiefs.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_282'>282</span><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Signë!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Gudmund!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>But tell me—?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Messenger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Your enemy, the Chancellor Audun Hugleikson, -has fallen.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>The Chancellor!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guests.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>[<i>To each other, in a half-whisper.</i>] Fallen!</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Messenger.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Three days ago he was beheaded at Bergen. -[<i>Lowering his voice.</i>] His offence was against -Norway’s Queen.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Margit.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Placing herself between</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Signë.</span>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thus punishment treads on the heels of crime!</div> - <div class='line'>Protecting angels, loving and bright,</div> - <div class='line'>Have looked down in mercy on me to-night,</div> - <div class='line'>And come to my rescue while yet it was time.</div> - <div class='line'>Now know I that life’s most precious treasure</div> - <div class='line'>Is nor worldly wealth nor earthly pleasure,</div> - <div class='line'>I have felt the remorse, the terror I know,</div> - <div class='line'>Of those who wantonly peril their soul,</div> - <div class='line'>To St. Sunniva’s cloister forthwith I go.—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Before</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>can speak.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Nay: think not to move me or control.</div> - <div class='c036'><span class='pageno' id='Page_283'>283</span>[<i>Places</i> <span class='sc'>Signë’s</span> <i>hand in</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund’s.</span></div> - <div class='line'>Take her then, Gudmund, and make her your bride.</div> - <div class='line'>Your union is holy; God’s on your side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Waving farewell, she goes towards the -doorway on the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Gudmund</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Signë</span> <i>follow her, she stops them with -a motion of her hand, goes out, and -shuts the door behind her. At this -moment the sun rises and sheds its -light into the hall.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gudmund.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Signë—my wife! See, the morning glow!</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis the morning of our young love. Rejoice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Signë.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All my fairest of dreams and of memories I owe</div> - <div class='line'>To the strains of thy harp and the sound of thy voice.</div> - <div class='line'>My noble minstrel, to joy or sadness</div> - <div class='line'>Tune thou that harp as seems thee best;</div> - <div class='line'>There are chords, believe me, within my breast</div> - <div class='line'>To answer to thine, or of woe or of gladness.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus of Men and Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Over earth keeps watch the eye of light,</div> - <div class='line'>Guardeth lovingly the good man’s ways,</div> - <div class='line'>Sheddeth round him its consoling rays;—</div> - <div class='line'>Praise be to the Lord in heaven’s height!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c019' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f24'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r24'>24</a>. This no doubt means a sort of arcaded veranda running -along the outer wall of the house.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f25'> -<p class='c027'><a href='#r25'>25</a>. A contest in impromptu verse-making.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c019' /> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_285'>285</span> - <h2 class='c008'>LOVE’S COMEDY</h2> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c038'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_286'>286</span>PERSONS OF THE COMEDY</div> - </div> -</div> - - <ul class='ul_1'> - <li><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span>, <i>widow of a government official.</i> -</li> -<li><span class='multiline'><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>,<br /><span class='sc'>Anna</span>,</span> <span class='multiline'><span class='xxlarge'>}</span> <i>her daughters.</i></span></li> -<li><span class='multiline'><span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>a young author</i>,<br /><span class='sc'>Lind</span>, <i>a divinity student</i>,</span> <span class='multiline'><span class='xxlarge'>}</span> <i>her boarders.</i></span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span>, <i>a wholesale merchant.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Stiver</span>, <i>a law-clerk.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>, <i>his fiancée.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Strawman</span>, <i>a country clergyman.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span>, <i>his wife.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Students, Guests, Married and Plighted Pairs.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Strawmans’ Eight Little Girls.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Four Aunts, a Porter, Domestic Servants.</span> - </li> - </ul> - -<hr class='c020' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Scene.</span>—<i>Mrs. Halm’s Villa on the Drammensvejen at Christiania.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_287'>287</span> - <h2 class='c008'><span class='xlarge'>LOVE’S COMEDY</span> <br /> PLAY IN THREE ACTS</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>ACT FIRST</h3> - -<p class='c025'><i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Scene</span> <i>represents a pretty garden irregularly -but tastefully laid out; in the background -are seen the fjord and the islands. -To the left is the house, with a verandah -and an open dormer window above; to the -right in the foreground an open summer-house -with a table and benches. The landscape -lies in bright afternoon sunshine. It -is early summer; the fruit-trees are in -flower</i>.</p> - -<p class='c029'><i>When the Curtain rises</i>, <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm, Anna</span>, -<i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>are sitting on the verandah, -the first two engaged in embroidery, the -last with a book. In the summer-house are -seen</i> <span class='sc'>Falk, Lind, Guldstad</span>, <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>: -<i>a punch-bowl and glasses are on the table.</i> -<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>sits alone in the background by -the water.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>rises, lifts his glass, and sings</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sun-glad day in garden shady</div> - <div class='line in2'>Was but made for thy delight:</div> - <div class='line'>What though promises of May-day</div> - <div class='line in2'>Be annulled by Autumn’s blight?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_288'>288</span>Apple-blossom white and splendid</div> - <div class='line in2'>Drapes thee in its glowing tent,—</div> - <div class='line'>Let it, then, when day is ended,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Strew the closes storm-besprent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus of Gentlemen.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Let it, then, when day is ended, etc.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wherefore seek the harvest’s guerdon</div> - <div class='line in2'>While the tree is yet in bloom?</div> - <div class='line'>Wherefore drudge beneath the burden</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of an unaccomplished doom?</div> - <div class='line'>Wherefore let the scarecrow clatter</div> - <div class='line in2'>Day and night upon the tree?</div> - <div class='line'>Brothers mine, the sparrows’ chatter</div> - <div class='line in2'>Has a cheerier melody.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brothers mine, the sparrow’s chatter, etc.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Happy songster! Wherefore scare him</div> - <div class='line in2'>From our blossom-laden bower?</div> - <div class='line'>Rather for his music spare him</div> - <div class='line in2'>All our future, flower by flower;</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, ’twill be cheaply buying</div> - <div class='line in2'>Present song with future fruit;</div> - <div class='line'>List the proverb, “Time is flying;—”</div> - <div class='line in2'>Soon our garden music’s mute.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>List the proverb, etc.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_289'>289</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c032'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I will live in song and gladness,—</div> - <div class='line in2'>Then, when every bloom is shed,</div> - <div class='line'>Sweep together, scarce in sadness,</div> - <div class='line in2'>All that glory, wan and dead:</div> - <div class='line'>Fling the gates wide! Bruise and batter,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Tear and trample, hoof and tusk;</div> - <div class='line'>I have plucked the flower, what matter</div> - <div class='line in2'>Who devours the withered husk!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>I have plucked the flower, etc.</p> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>They clink and empty their glasses.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>to the ladies</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There—that’s the song you asked me for; but pray</div> - <div class='line'>Be lenient to it—I can’t think to-day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, never mind the sense—the sound’s the thing.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>looking round</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Svanhild, who was eagerest to hear—?</div> - <div class='line'>When Falk began, she suddenly took wing</div> - <div class='line'>And vanished—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>pointing towards the back</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>No, for there she sits—I see her.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_290'>290</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>sighing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That child! Heaven knows, she’s past my comprehending!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But, Mr. Falk, I thought the lyric’s ending</div> - <div class='line'>Was not so rich in—well, in poetry,</div> - <div class='line'>As others of the stanzas seemed to be.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why yes, and I am sure it could not tax</div> - <div class='line'>Your powers to get a little more inserted—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>clinking glasses with him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You cram it in, like putty into cracks,</div> - <div class='line'>Till lean is into streaky fat converted.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>unruffled</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, nothing easier—I, too, in my day</div> - <div class='line'>Could do the trick.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Dear me! Were you a poet?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My Stiver! Yes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Oh, in a humble way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_291'>291</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to the ladies</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>His nature is romantic.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Yes, we know it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not now; it’s ages since I turned a rhyme.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, varnish and romance go off with time.</div> - <div class='line'>But in the old days—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Well, you see, ’twas when</div> - <div class='line'>I was in love.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Is that time over, then?</div> - <div class='line'>Have you slept off the sweet intoxication?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m now <em class='gesperrt'>engaged</em>—I hold official station—</div> - <div class='line'>That’s better than in love, I apprehend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Quite so! You’re in the right, my good old friend.</div> - <div class='line'>The worst is past—<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>vous voilà bien avancé</i></span>—</div> - <div class='line'>Promoted from mere lover to <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>fiancé</i></span>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_292'>292</span><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>with a smile of complacent recollection</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s strange to think of it—upon my word,</div> - <div class='line'>I half suspect my memory of lying—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Turns to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - <div class='line'>But seven years ago—it sounds absurd!—</div> - <div class='line'>I wasted office hours in versifying.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What! Office hours—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Yes, such were my transgressions.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>ringing on his glass</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Silence for our solicitor’s confessions!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But chiefly after five, when I was free,</div> - <div class='line'>I’d rattle off whole reams of poetry—</div> - <div class='line'>Ten—fifteen folios ere I went to bed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I see—you gave your Pegasus his head,</div> - <div class='line'>And off he tore—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>On stamped or unstamped paper—</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas all the same to him—he’d prance and caper—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The spring of poetry flowed no less flush?</div> - <div class='line'>But how, pray, did you teach it first to gush?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_293'>293</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By aid of love’s divining-rod, my friend!</div> - <div class='line'>Miss Jay it was that taught me where to bore,</div> - <div class='line'>My <i>fiancée</i>—she became so in the end—</div> - <div class='line'>For then she was—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Your love and nothing more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>continuing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas a strange time; I could not read a bit;</div> - <div class='line'>I tuned my pen instead of pointing it;</div> - <div class='line'>And when along the foolscap sheet it raced,</div> - <div class='line'>It twangled music to the words I traced;—</div> - <div class='line'>At last by letter I declared my flame</div> - <div class='line'>To her—to her—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Whose <i>fiancé</i> you became.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In course of post her answer came to hand—</div> - <div class='line'>The motion granted—judgment in my favour!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you felt bigger, as you wrote, and braver,</div> - <div class='line'>To find you’d brought your venture safe to land!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Of course.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>And then you bade the Muse farewell?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_294'>294</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ve felt no lyric impulse, truth to tell,</div> - <div class='line'>From that day forth. My vein appeared to peter</div> - <div class='line'>Entirely out; and now, if I essay</div> - <div class='line'>To turn a verse or two for New Year’s Day,</div> - <div class='line'>I make the veriest hash of rhyme and metre,</div> - <div class='line'>And—I’ve no notion what the cause can be—</div> - <div class='line'>It turns to law and not to poetry.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>clinks glasses with him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And, trust me, you’re no whit the worse for that!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - <div class='line'>You think the stream of life is flowing solely</div> - <div class='line'>To bear you to the goal you’re aiming at—</div> - <div class='line'>But you may find yourself mistaken wholly.</div> - <div class='line'>As for your song, perhaps it’s most poetic,</div> - <div class='line'>Perhaps it’s not—on that point we won’t quarrel—</div> - <div class='line'>But here I lodge a protest energetic,</div> - <div class='line'>Say what you will, against its wretched moral.</div> - <div class='line'>A masterly economy and new</div> - <div class='line'>To let the birds play havoc at their pleasure</div> - <div class='line'>Among your fruit-trees, fruitless now for you,</div> - <div class='line'>And suffer flocks and herds to trample through</div> - <div class='line'>Your garden, and lay waste its springtide treasure!</div> - <div class='line'>A pretty prospect, truly, for next year!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, next, next, next! The thought I loathe and fear</div> - <div class='line'>That these four letters timidly express—</div> - <div class='line'>It beggars millionaires in happiness!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_295'>295</span>If I could be the autocrat of speech</div> - <div class='line'>But for one hour, that hateful word I’d banish;</div> - <div class='line'>I’d send it packing out of mortal reach,</div> - <div class='line'>As B and G from Knudsen’s Grammar vanish.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why should the word of hope enrage you thus?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Because it darkens God’s fair earth for us.</div> - <div class='line'>“Next year,” “next love,” “next life,”—my soul is vext</div> - <div class='line'>To see this world in thraldom to “the next.”</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis this dull forethought, bent on future prizes,</div> - <div class='line'>That millionaires in gladness pauperises.</div> - <div class='line'>Far as the eye can reach, it blurs the age;</div> - <div class='line'>All rapture of the moment it destroys;</div> - <div class='line'>No one dares taste in peace life’s simplest joys</div> - <div class='line'>Until he’s struggled on another stage—</div> - <div class='line'>And there arriving, can he there repose?</div> - <div class='line'>No—to a new “next” off he flies again;</div> - <div class='line'>On, on, unresting, to the grave he goes;</div> - <div class='line'>And God knows if there’s any resting then.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fie, Mr. Falk, such sentiments are shocking.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>pensively</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, I can understand the feeling quite;</div> - <div class='line'>I am sure at bottom Mr. Falk is right.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_296'>296</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>perturbed</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My Stiver mustn’t listen to his mocking.</div> - <div class='line'>He’s rather too eccentric even now.—</div> - <div class='line'>My dear, I want you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>occupied in cleaning his pipe</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Presently, my dear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One thing at least to me is very clear;—</div> - <div class='line'>And that is that you cannot but allow</div> - <div class='line'>Some forethought indispensable. For see,</div> - <div class='line'>Suppose that you to-day should write a sonnet,</div> - <div class='line'>And, scorning forethought, you should lavish on it</div> - <div class='line'>Your last reserve, your all, of poetry,</div> - <div class='line'>So that, to-morrow, when you set about</div> - <div class='line'>Your next song, you should find yourself cleaned out,</div> - <div class='line'>Heavens! how your friends the critics then would crow!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>D’you think they’d notice I was bankrupt? No!</div> - <div class='line'>Once beggared of ideas, I and they</div> - <div class='line'>Would saunter arm in arm the selfsame way— [<i>Breaking off.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But Lind! why, what’s the matter with you, pray?</div> - <div class='line'>You sit there dumb and dreaming—I suspect you’re</div> - <div class='line'>Deep in the mysteries of architecture.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_297'>297</span><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>collecting himself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I? What should make you think so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>I observe.</div> - <div class='line'>Your eyes are glued to the verandah yonder—</div> - <div class='line'>You’re studying, mayhap, its arches’ curve,</div> - <div class='line'>Or can it be its pillars’ strength you ponder,</div> - <div class='line'>The door perhaps, with hammered iron hinges?</div> - <div class='line'>The window blinds, and their artistic fringes?</div> - <div class='line'>From something there your glances never wander.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, you are wrong—I’m just absorbed in being—</div> - <div class='line'>Drunk with the hour—naught craving, naught foreseeing.</div> - <div class='line'>I feel as though I stood, my life complete,</div> - <div class='line'>With all earth’s riches scattered at my feet.</div> - <div class='line'>Thanks for your song of happiness and spring—</div> - <div class='line'>From out my inmost heart it seemed to spring.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Lifts his glass and exchanges a glance, -unobserved, with</i> <span class='sc'>Anna.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here’s to the blossom in its fragrant pride!</div> - <div class='line'>What reck we of the fruit of autumn-tide?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Empties his glass.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>looks at him with surprise and emotion, but assumes a light tone</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Behold, fair ladies! though you scorn me quite,</div> - <div class='line'>Here I have made an easy proselyte.</div> - <div class='line'>His hymn-book yesterday was all he cared for—</div> - <div class='line'>To-day e’en dithyrambics he’s prepared for!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_298'>298</span>We poets must be born, cries every judge;</div> - <div class='line'>But prose-folks, now and then, like Strasburg geese,</div> - <div class='line'>Gorge themselves so inhumanly obese</div> - <div class='line'>On rhyming balderdash and rhythmic fudge,</div> - <div class='line'>That, when cleaned out, their very souls are thick</div> - <div class='line'>With lyric lard and greasy rhetoric.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - <div class='line'>Your praise, however, I shall not forget;</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll sweep the lyre henceforward in duet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Mr. Falk, are hard at work, no doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>Here in these rural solitudes delightful,</div> - <div class='line'>Where at your own sweet will you roam about—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Oh, no, his laziness is something frightful.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What! here at Mrs. Halm’s! that’s most surprising—</div> - <div class='line'>Surely it’s just the place for poetising—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pointing to the right.</i></div> - <div class='line'>That summer-house, for instance, in the wood</div> - <div class='line'>Sequestered, name me any place that could</div> - <div class='line'>Be more conducive to poetic mood—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Let blindness veil the sunlight from mine eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll chant the splendour of the sunlit skies!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_299'>299</span>Just for a season let me beg or borrow</div> - <div class='line'>A great, a crushing, a stupendous sorrow,</div> - <div class='line'>And soon you’ll hear my hymns of gladness rise!</div> - <div class='line'>But best, Miss Jay, to nerve my wings for flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Find me a maid to be my life, my light—</div> - <div class='line'>For that incitement long to Heaven I’ve pleaded;</div> - <div class='line'>But hitherto, worse luck, it hasn’t heeded.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What levity!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Yes, most irreverent!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pray don’t imagine it was my intent</div> - <div class='line'>To live with her on bread and cheese and kisses.</div> - <div class='line'>No! just upon the threshold of our blisses,</div> - <div class='line'>Kind Heaven must snatch away the gift it lent.</div> - <div class='line'>I need a little spiritual gymnastic;</div> - <div class='line'>The dose in that form surely would be drastic.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Has during the talk approached; she -stands close to the table, and says in a -determined but whimsical tone:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ll pray that such may be your destiny.</div> - <div class='line'>But, when it finds you—bear it like a man.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_300'>300</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>turning round in surprise</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Miss Svanhild!—well, I’ll do the best I can.</div> - <div class='line'>But think you I may trust implicitly</div> - <div class='line'>To finding your petitions efficacious?</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven, as you know, to faith alone is gracious—</div> - <div class='line'>And though you’ve doubtless will enough for two</div> - <div class='line'>To make me bid my peace of mind adieu,</div> - <div class='line'>Have you the faith to carry matters through?</div> - <div class='line'>That is the question.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>half in jest</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Wait till sorrow comes,</div> - <div class='line'>And all your being’s springtide chills and numbs,</div> - <div class='line'>Wait till it gnaws and rends you, soon and late,</div> - <div class='line'>Then tell me if my faith is adequate.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She goes across to the ladies.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>aside to her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Can you two never be at peace? you’ve made</div> - <div class='line'>Poor Mr. Falk quite angry, I’m afraid.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Continues reprovingly in a low voice.</i> -<span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>joins in the conversation.</i> -<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>remains cold and silent.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>after a pause of reflection goes over to the summer-house, then to himself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With fullest confidence her glances lightened.</div> - <div class='line'>Shall I believe, as she does so securely,</div> - <div class='line'>That Heaven intends—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_301'>301</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>No, hang it; don’t be frightened!</div> - <div class='line'>The powers above would be demented surely</div> - <div class='line'>To give effect to orders such as these.</div> - <div class='line'>No, my good sir—the cure for your disease</div> - <div class='line'>Is exercise for muscle, nerve, and sinew.</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t lie there wasting all the grit that’s in you</div> - <div class='line'>In idle dreams; cut wood, if that were all;</div> - <div class='line'>And then I’ll say the devil’s in’t indeed</div> - <div class='line'>If one brief fortnight does not find you freed</div> - <div class='line'>From all your whimsies high-fantastical.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fetter’d by choice, like Burnell’s ass, I ponder—</div> - <div class='line'>The flesh on this side, and the spirit yonder.</div> - <div class='line'>Which were it wiser I should go for first?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>filling the glasses</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>First have some punch—that quenches ire and thirst.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>looking at her watch</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha! Eight o’clock! my watch is either fast, or</div> - <div class='line'>It’s just the time we may expect the Pastor.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'>[<i>Rises, and puts things in order on the -verandah.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What! have we parsons coming?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Don’t you know?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_302'>302</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I told you, just a little while ago—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, mother—Mr. Falk had not yet come.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why no, that’s true; but pray don’t look so glum.</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, you’ll be enchanted with his visit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A clerical enchanter; pray who is it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, Pastor Strawman, not unknown to fame.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Indeed! Oh, yes, I think I’ve heard his name,</div> - <div class='line'>And read that in the legislative game</div> - <div class='line'>He comes to take a hand, with voice and vote.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He speaks superbly.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>When he’s cleared his throat.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s coming with his wife—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_303'>303</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>And all their blessings—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To give them three or four days’ treat, poor dears—</div> - <div class='line'>Soon he’ll be buried over head and ears</div> - <div class='line'>In Swedish muddles and official messings—</div> - <div class='line'>I see!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Now there’s a man for you, in truth!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>They say he was a rogue, though, in his youth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>offended</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There, Mr. Guldstad, I must break a lance!</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve heard as long as I can recollect,</div> - <div class='line'>Most worthy people speak with great respect</div> - <div class='line'>Of Pastor Strawman and his life’s romance.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Romance?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Romance! I call a match romantic</div> - <div class='line'>At which mere worldly wisdom looks askance.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You make my curiosity gigantic.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_304'>304</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>continuing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But certain people always grow splenetic—</div> - <div class='line'>Why, goodness knows—at everything pathetic,</div> - <div class='line'>And scoff it down. We all know how, of late,</div> - <div class='line'>An unfledged, upstart undergraduate</div> - <div class='line'>Presumed, with brazen insolence, to declare</div> - <div class='line'>That “William Russell” was a poor affair!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c022'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But what has this to do with Strawman, pray?</div> - <div class='line'>Is he a poem, or a Christian play?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>with tears of emotion</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c022'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, Falk,—a man, with heart as large as day.</div> - <div class='line'>But when a—so to speak—mere lifeless thing</div> - <div class='line'>Can put such venom into envy’s sting,</div> - <div class='line'>And stir up evil passions fierce and fell</div> - <div class='line'>Of such a depth—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>sympathetically</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c022'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>And such a length as well—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why then, a man of your commanding brain</div> - <div class='line'>Can’t fail to see—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Oh yes, that’s very plain.</div> - <div class='line'>But hitherto I haven’t quite made out</div> - <div class='line'>The nature, style, and plot of this romance.</div> - <div class='line'>It’s something quite delightful I’ve no doubt—</div> - <div class='line'>But just a little inkling in advance—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_305'>305</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I will abstract, in rapid <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>résumé</i></span>,</div> - <div class='line'>The leading points.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>No, I am more <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>au fait</i></span>,</div> - <div class='line'>I know the ins and outs—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>I know them too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh Mrs. Halm! now let me tell it, do!</div> - <div class='line'>Well, Mr. Falk, you see—he passed at college</div> - <div class='line'>For quite a miracle of wit and knowledge,</div> - <div class='line'>Had admirable taste in books and dress—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And acted—privately—with great success.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, wait a bit—he painted, played and wrote—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And don’t forget his gift of anecdote.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Do give me time; I know the whole affair:</div> - <div class='line'>He made some verses, set them to an air,</div> - <div class='line'>Also his own,—and found a publisher.</div> - <div class='line'>O heavens! with what romantic melancholy</div> - <div class='line'>He played and sang his “Madrigals to Molly”!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_306'>306</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He was a genius, that’s the simple fact.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>to himself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hm! Some were of opinion he was cracked.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A gray old stager, whose sagacious head</div> - <div class='line'>Was never upon mouldy parchments fed,</div> - <div class='line'>Says “Love makes Petrarchs, just as many lambs</div> - <div class='line'>And little occupation, Abrahams.”</div> - <div class='line'>But who was Molly?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Molly? His elect,</div> - <div class='line'>His lady-love, whom shortly we expect.</div> - <div class='line'>Of a great firm her father was a member—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A timber house.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>curtly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>I’m really not aware.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Did a large trade in scantlings, I remember.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That is the trivial side of the affair.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_307'>307</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A firm?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>continuing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Of vast resources, I’m informed.</div> - <div class='line'>You can imagine how the suitors swarm’d;</div> - <div class='line'>Gentlemen of the highest reputation.—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Even a baronet made application.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Molly was not to be made their catch.</div> - <div class='line'>She had met Strawman upon private stages;</div> - <div class='line'>To see him was to love him—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>And despatch</div> - <div class='line'>The wooing gentry home without their wages?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Was it not just a too romantic match?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then there was a terrible old father,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose sport was thrusting happy souls apart;</div> - <div class='line'>She had a guardian also, as I gather,</div> - <div class='line'>To add fresh torment to her tortured heart.</div> - <div class='line'>But each of them was loyal to his vow;</div> - <div class='line'>A straw-thatched cottage and a snow-white ewe</div> - <div class='line'>They dream’d of, just enough to nourish two—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_308'>308</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Or at the very uttermost a cow,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In short, I’ve heard it from the lips of both,—</div> - <div class='line'>A beck, a byre, two bosoms, and one troth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah yes! And then—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>She broke with kin and class.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She broke—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Broke with them.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>There’s a plucky lass!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And fled to Strawman’s garret—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>How? Without—</div> - <div class='line'>Ahem—the priestly consecration?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_309'>309</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Shame!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fy, fy! my late beloved husband’s name</div> - <div class='line'>Was on the list of sponsors—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>You’re to blame</div> - <div class='line'>For leaving that important item out.</div> - <div class='line'>In a report ’tis of the utmost weight</div> - <div class='line'>That the chronology be accurate.</div> - <div class='line'>But what I never yet could comprehend</div> - <div class='line'>Is how on earth they managed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>The one room</div> - <div class='line'>Not housing sheep and cattle, I presume.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, but you must consider this, my friend;</div> - <div class='line'>There is no <i>Want</i> where Love’s the guiding star;</div> - <div class='line'>All’s right without if tender Troth’s within.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - <div class='line'>He loved her to the notes of the guitar,</div> - <div class='line'>And she gave lessons on the violin—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then all, of course, on credit they bespoke—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_310'>310</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Till, in a year, the timber merchant broke.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then Strawman had a call to north.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>And there</div> - <div class='line'>Vowed, in a letter that I saw (as few did),</div> - <div class='line'>He lived but for his duty, and for her.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>as if completing her statement</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And with those words his Life’s Romance concluded.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>rising</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How if we should go out upon the lawn,</div> - <div class='line'>And see if there’s no prospect of them yet?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>drawing on her mantle</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s cool already.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Svanhild, will you get</div> - <div class='line'>My woollen shawl?—Come ladies, pray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>, <i>unobserved by the others</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in36'>Go on!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>goes into the house; the others, -except</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>go towards the back and -out to the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>, <i>who has followed, -stops and returns.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_311'>311</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My friend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Ah, ditto.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Falk, your hand! The tide</div> - <div class='line'>Of joy’s so vehement, it will perforce</div> - <div class='line'>Break out—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Hullo there; you must first be tried;</div> - <div class='line'>Sentence and hanging follow in due course.</div> - <div class='line'>Now, what on earth’s the matter? To conceal</div> - <div class='line'>From me, your friend, this treasure of your finding;</div> - <div class='line'>For you’ll confess the inference is binding:</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve come into a prize off Fortune’s wheel!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ve snared and taken Fortune’s blessed bird!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How? Living,—and undamaged by the steel?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Patience; I’ll tell the matter in one word.</div> - <div class='line'>I am engaged! Conceive—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>quickly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Engaged!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_312'>312</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>It’s true.</div> - <div class='line'>To-day,—with unimagined courage swelling,</div> - <div class='line'>I said,—ahem, it will not bear re-telling;—</div> - <div class='line'>But only think,—the sweet young maiden grew</div> - <div class='line'>Quite rosy-red,—but not at all enraged!</div> - <div class='line'>You see, Falk, what I ventured for a bride!</div> - <div class='line'>She listened,—and I rather think she cried;</div> - <div class='line'>That, sure, means “Yes“?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>If precedents decide;</div> - <div class='line'>Go on.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>And so we really are—engaged?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I should conclude so; but the only way</div> - <div class='line'>To be quite certain, is to ask Miss Jay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O no, I feel so confident, so clear!</div> - <div class='line'>So perfectly assured, and void of fear.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Radiantly, in a mysterious tone.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Hark! I had leave her fingers to caress</div> - <div class='line'>When from the coffee-board she drew the cover.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>lifting and emptying his glass</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, flowers of spring your wedding garland dress!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_313'>313</span><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>doing the same</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And here I swear by heaven that I will love her</div> - <div class='line'>Until I die, with love as infinite</div> - <div class='line'>As now glows in me,—for she is so sweet!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Engaged! Aha, so that was why you flung</div> - <div class='line'>The Holy Law and Prophets on the shelf!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you believed it was the song you sung—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A poet believes all things of himself.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>seriously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Don’t think, however, Falk, that I dismiss</div> - <div class='line'>The theologian from my hour of bliss.</div> - <div class='line'>Only, I find the Book will not suffice</div> - <div class='line'>As Jacob’s ladder unto Paradise.</div> - <div class='line'>I must into God’s world, and seek Him there.</div> - <div class='line'>A boundless kindness in my heart upsprings,</div> - <div class='line'>I love the straw, I love the creeping things;</div> - <div class='line'>They also in my joy shall have a share.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, only tell me this, though—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>I have told it,—</div> - <div class='line'>My precious secret, and our three hearts hold it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_314'>314</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But have you thought about the future?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>Thought?</div> - <div class='line'>I?—thought about the future? No, from this</div> - <div class='line'>Time forth I live but in the hour that is.</div> - <div class='line'>In home shall all my happiness be sought;</div> - <div class='line'>We hold Fate’s reins, we drive her hither, thither,</div> - <div class='line'>And neither friend nor mother shall have right</div> - <div class='line'>To say unto my budding blossom: Wither!</div> - <div class='line'>For I am earnest and her eyes are bright,</div> - <div class='line'>And so it must unfold into the light!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, Fortune likes you, you will serve her turn!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My spirits like wild music glow and burn;</div> - <div class='line'>I feel myself a Titan: though a foss</div> - <div class='line'>Opened before me—I would leap across!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your love, you mean to say, in simple prose,</div> - <div class='line'>Has made a reindeer of you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Well, suppose;</div> - <div class='line'>But in my wildest flight, I know the nest</div> - <div class='line'>In which my heart’s dove longs to be at rest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_315'>315</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well then, to-morrow it may fly <span lang="it" xml:lang="it"><i>con brio</i></span>;</div> - <div class='line'>You’re off into the hills with the quartette.</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll guarantee you against cold and wet—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pooh, the quartette may go and climb in <i>trio</i>,</div> - <div class='line'>The lowly dale has mountain air for me;</div> - <div class='line'>Here I’ve the immeasurable fjord, the flowers,</div> - <div class='line'>Here I have warbling birds and choral bowers;</div> - <div class='line'>And lady Fortune’s self,—for here is <em class='gesperrt'>she</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, lady Fortune by our Northern water</div> - <div class='line'>Is <span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>rara avis</i></span>,—hold her if you’ve caught her!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With a glance towards the house.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Hist—Svanhild—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Well; I go,—disclose to none</div> - <div class='line'>The secret that we share alone with one.</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas good of you to listen: now enfold it</div> - <div class='line'>Deep in your heart,—warm, glowing, as I told it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>He goes out in the background to the -others.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>looks after him a moment, -and paces up and down in the garden, -visibly striving to master his agitation. -Presently</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>comes out with a -shawl on her arm, and is going towards -the back</i>. <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>approaches and gazes -at her fixedly.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>stops.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_316'>316</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>after a short pause</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You gaze so at me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>half to himself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Yes, ’tis <em class='gesperrt'>there</em>—the same;</div> - <div class='line'>The shadow in her eyes’ deep mirror sleeping,</div> - <div class='line'>The roguish elf about her lips a-peeping,</div> - <div class='line'>It is there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'><em class='gesperrt'>What</em>? You frighten me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in40'>Your name</div> - <div class='line'>Is Svanhild?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Yes, you know it very well.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But do <em class='gesperrt'>you</em> know the name is laughable?</div> - <div class='line'>I beg you to discard it from to-night!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That would be far beyond a daughter’s right—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hm. “Svanhild! Svanhild!”</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With sudden gravity.</i></div> - <div class='line in24'>With your earliest breath</div> - <div class='line'>How came you by this prophecy of death?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_317'>317</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is it so grim?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>No, lovely as a song,</div> - <div class='line'>But for our age too great and stern and strong,</div> - <div class='line'>How can a modern demoiselle fill out</div> - <div class='line'>The ideal that heroic name expresses?</div> - <div class='line'>No, no, discard it with your outworn dresses.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean the mythical princess, no doubt—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who, guiltless, died beneath the horse’s feet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But now such acts are clearly obsolete.</div> - <div class='line'>No, no, I’ll mount his saddle! There’s my place!</div> - <div class='line'>How often have I dreamt, in pensive ease,</div> - <div class='line'>He bore me, buoyant, through the world apace,</div> - <div class='line'>His mane a flag of freedom in the breeze!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, the old tale. In “pensive ease” no mortal</div> - <div class='line'>Is stopped by thwarting bar or cullis’d portal;</div> - <div class='line'>Fearless we cleave the ether without bound;</div> - <div class='line'>In practice, tho’, we shrewdly hug the ground;</div> - <div class='line'>For all love life and, having choice, will choose it;</div> - <div class='line'>And no man dares to leap where he may lose it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_318'>318</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes! show me but the end, I’ll spurn the shore;</div> - <div class='line'>But let the end be worth the leaping for!</div> - <div class='line'>A Ballarat beyond the desert sands—</div> - <div class='line'>Else each will stay exactly where he stands.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>sarcastically</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I grasp the case;—the due conditions fail.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>eagerly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Exactly: what’s the use of spreading sail</div> - <div class='line'>When there is not a breath of wind astir?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>ironically</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, what’s the use of plying whip and spur</div> - <div class='line'>When there is not a penny of reward</div> - <div class='line'>For him who tears him from the festal board,</div> - <div class='line'>And mounts, and dashes headlong to perdition?</div> - <div class='line'>Such doing for the deed’s sake asks a knight,</div> - <div class='line'>And knighthood’s now an idle superstition.</div> - <div class='line'>That was your meaning, possibly?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>Quite right.</div> - <div class='line'>Look at that fruit tree in the orchard close,—</div> - <div class='line'>No blossom on its barren branches blows.</div> - <div class='line'>You should have seen last year with what brave airs</div> - <div class='line'>It staggered underneath its world of pears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>uncertain</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No doubt, but what’s the moral you impute?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_319'>319</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with finesse</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, among other things, the bold unreason</div> - <div class='line'>Of modern Zacharies who seek for fruit.</div> - <div class='line'>If the tree blossom’d to excess last season,</div> - <div class='line'>You must not crave the blossoms back in this.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I knew you’d find your footing in the ways</div> - <div class='line'>Of old Romance.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Yes, modern virtue is</div> - <div class='line'>Of quite another stamp. Who now arrays</div> - <div class='line'>Himself to battle for the truth? Who’ll stake</div> - <div class='line'>His life and person fearless for truth’s sake?</div> - <div class='line'>Where is the hero?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>looking keenly at her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Where is the Valkyria?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>shaking her head</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Valkyrias find no market in this land!</div> - <div class='line'>When the faith lately was assailed in Syria,</div> - <div class='line'>Did you go out with the crusader-band?</div> - <div class='line'>No, but on paper you were warm and willing,—</div> - <div class='line'>And sent the “Clerical Gazette” a shilling.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Pause.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>is about to retort, but -checks himself, and goes into the garden.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>After watching him a moment, approaches -him and asks gently:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Falk, are you angry?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_320'>320</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>No, I only brood,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with thoughtful sympathy</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You seem to be two natures, still at feud,—</div> - <div class='line'>Unreconciled—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>I know it well.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>impetuously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>But why?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>losing self-control</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, why? Because I hate to go about</div> - <div class='line'>With soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye,</div> - <div class='line'>As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out;</div> - <div class='line'>To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve,</div> - <div class='line'>Like women in low dresses. You, alone,</div> - <div class='line'>Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,—</div> - <div class='line'>Well, it is past, <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> dream, for ever flown.—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She goes to the summer-house and looks -out; he follows.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You listen—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>To another voice, that sings.</div> - <div class='line'>Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest,</div> - <div class='line'>A little bird floats hither on beating wings,—</div> - <div class='line'>See there—it darted from its leafy nest—</div> - <div class='line'>And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oft</div> - <div class='line'>As God makes any songless soul, He sends</div> - <div class='line'>A little bird to be her friend of friends,</div> - <div class='line'>And sing for ever in her garden-croft.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_321'>321</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>picking up a stone</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then must the owner and the bird be near,</div> - <div class='line'>Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine.</div> - <div class='line'>Of speech and song I am denied the power,</div> - <div class='line'>But when it warbles in its leafy bower,</div> - <div class='line'>Poems flow in upon my brain like wine—</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>throws the stone.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> -<i>screams.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She hurries out to the right and then -quickly returns.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O pity! pity!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>in passionate agitation</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>No,—but eye for eye,</div> - <div class='line'>Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attend</div> - <div class='line'>No further greetings from your garden-friend,</div> - <div class='line'>No guerdon from the land of melody.</div> - <div class='line'>That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I slew?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>You slew. Until this very day,</div> - <div class='line'>A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul;</div> - <div class='line'>See,—now one passing bell for both may toll—</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve killed it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_322'>322</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Have I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Yes, for you have slain</div> - <div class='line'>My young, high-hearted, joyous exultation—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Contemptuously.</i></div> - <div class='line'>By your betrothal!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>How! But pray, explain—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, it’s in full accord with expectation;</div> - <div class='line'>He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds to</div> - <div class='line'>A post,—as missionary in the West—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>in the same tone</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;—</div> - <div class='line'>For it is Lind you speak of—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>You know best</div> - <div class='line'>Of whom I speak.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with a subdued smile</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>As the bride’s sister, true,</div> - <div class='line'>I cannot help—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_323'>323</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Great God! It is not you—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with almost childish joy</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is not you! O God be glorified!</div> - <div class='line'>What love, what mercy does He not bestow!</div> - <div class='line'>I shall not see you as another’s bride;—</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Tries to seize her hand.</i></div> - <div class='line'>O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>pointing quickly to the background</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>See there!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She goes towards the house. At the same -moment</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm, Anna, Miss Jay, -Guldstad, Stiver</span>, <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span> <i>emerge -from the background. During the previous -scene the sun has set; it is now -dark.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Strawmans may be momently expected.</div> - <div class='line'>Where have you been?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>after glancing at</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Your colour’s very high.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A little face-ache; it will soon pass by.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_324'>324</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected?</div> - <div class='line'>Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready;</div> - <div class='line'>Let everything be nice; I know the lady.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>goes in.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is the colour of this parson’s coat?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How if one made allusion to the store</div> - <div class='line'>Of verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It might do something.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Would to heaven it might!</div> - <div class='line'>Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light.</div> - <div class='line'>Courtship’s a very serious affair.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just so: “<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?</i></span>”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is courtship a <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">“galère”</span>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_325'>325</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>No, married lives;—</div> - <div class='line'>All servitude, captivity, and gyves.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>seeing</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>approach</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You little know what wealth a man obtains</div> - <div class='line'>From woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>aside to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Will Guldstad give us credit, think you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>peevishly</i>];</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in42'>I</div> - <div class='line'>Am not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They withdraw in conversation;</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Anna</span> <i>approach.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>aside to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I can’t endure it longer; in post-haste</div> - <div class='line'>I must present her—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>You had best refrain,</div> - <div class='line'>And not initiate the eye profane</div> - <div class='line'>Into your mysteries—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>That would be a jest!—</div> - <div class='line'>From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate,</div> - <div class='line'>To keep concealed my new-found happy state!</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_326'>326</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You think the occasion good to get it <em class='gesperrt'>curled</em>?</div> - <div class='line'>Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed;</div> - <div class='line'>Go and announce your union to the world!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Other reflections also weigh with me,</div> - <div class='line'>And one of more especial gravity;</div> - <div class='line'>Say that there lurked among our motley band</div> - <div class='line'>Some sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;</div> - <div class='line'>Say, his attentions became undisguised,—</div> - <div class='line'>We should be disagreeably compromised.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,</div> - <div class='line'>You for a higher office were designed,</div> - <div class='line'>Love as his young licentiate has retained you;</div> - <div class='line'>Shortly you’ll get a permanent position;</div> - <div class='line'>But it would be defying all tradition</div> - <div class='line'>If at the present moment he ordained you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes if the merchant does not—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>What of him?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>troubled</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_327'>327</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the man</div> - <div class='line'>Will rob me of my treasure, if he can.</div> - <div class='line'>The fellow, as we know, comes daily down,</div> - <div class='line'>Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town;</div> - <div class='line'>In short, my own, regard it as we will,</div> - <div class='line'>There are a thousand things that bode us ill.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>sighing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>sympathetically to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious,</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>She and</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span> <i>withdraw in different directions.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>looking after</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So to the ruin of his youth he goes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Who has meantime been conversing on the -steps with</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>, -<i>approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>and slaps him on the -shoulder.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, brooding on a poem?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_328'>328</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>No, a play.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The deuce;—I never heard it was your line.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O no, the author is a friend of mine,</div> - <div class='line'>And your acquaintance also, I daresay.</div> - <div class='line'>The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt.</div> - <div class='line'>Only imagine, in a single day</div> - <div class='line'>He’s worked a perfect little Idyll out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>slily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With happy ending, doubtless!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>You’re aware,</div> - <div class='line'>No curtain falls but on a plighted pair.</div> - <div class='line'>Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned;</div> - <div class='line'>But now the poet’s labour-throes begin;</div> - <div class='line'>The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second,</div> - <div class='line'>Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin,</div> - <div class='line'>And of that staple, finally, compose</div> - <div class='line'>Part Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Really? How so, pray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_329'>329</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Since I also pore</div> - <div class='line'>And ponder over a poetic scheme,—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Mysteriously.</i></div> - <div class='line'>An actuality—and not a dream.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And pray, who is the hero of your theme?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is yourself!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>You think me equal to it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m sure no other mortal man could do it.</div> - <div class='line'>But then the heroine? No city maid,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>lifting his finger</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Changing his tone.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_330'>330</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O you’re best able to pronounce upon her;</div> - <div class='line'>My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Smiling.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But just take care no mischief-maker blot</div> - <div class='line'>This fine poetic scheme of which you talk.</div> - <div class='line'>Suppose I were so shameless as to balk</div> - <div class='line'>The meditated climax of the plot?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>good-naturedly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, I would cry “Amen,” and change my plan.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Why, you see, you are a letter’d man;</div> - <div class='line'>How monstrous were it if your skill’d design</div> - <div class='line'>Were ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Retires to the background.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>in passing, to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really scheming</div> - <div class='line'>The ruin of your new-won happiness.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>aside to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll go this very moment and confess.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They approach</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span>, <i>who is standing -with</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>by the house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_331'>331</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>conversing with</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis a fine evening.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Very likely,—when</div> - <div class='line'>A man’s disposed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>facetiously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>What, all not running smooth</div> - <div class='line'>In true love’s course?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Not that exactly—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>coming up</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in42'>Then</div> - <div class='line'>With your engagement?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>That’s about the truth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groat</div> - <div class='line'>Or two still left, it seems, of poetry.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>stiffly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I cannot see what poetry has got</div> - <div class='line'>To do with my engagement, or with me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You are not meant to see; when lovers prove</div> - <div class='line'>What love is, all is over with their love.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_332'>332</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if there’s matter for adjustment, pray</div> - <div class='line'>Let’s hear it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>I’ve been pondering all day</div> - <div class='line'>Whether the thing is proper to disclose,</div> - <div class='line'>But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever since</div> - <div class='line'>As plighted lover you were first installed,</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And sometimes to the quick.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>You’ve had to wince</div> - <div class='line'>Beneath a crushing load of obligations</div> - <div class='line'>That you’d send packing, if good form permitted.</div> - <div class='line'>That’s what’s the matter.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Monstrous accusations!</div> - <div class='line'>My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted;</div> - <div class='line'>But other bonds next month are falling due;</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - <div class='line'>When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_333'>333</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>triumphant</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue,</div> - <div class='line'>There rang an echo from your old song-life!</div> - <div class='line'>That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’;</div> - <div class='line'>Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A knife?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Yes, Resolution’s knife, to sever</div> - <div class='line'>Each captive bond, and set you free for ever,</div> - <div class='line'>To soar—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>angrily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Nay, now you’re insolent beyond</div> - <div class='line'>Endurance! Me to charge with violation</div> - <div class='line'>Of law,—me, me with plotting to abscond!</div> - <div class='line'>It’s libellous, malicious defamation,</div> - <div class='line'>Insult and calumny—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Are you insane?</div> - <div class='line'>What is all this about? Explain! Explain!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>laughingly to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash!</div> - <div class='line'>What do you want?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>pulling himself together</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>A trifling loan in cash.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A loan!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_334'>334</span><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>hurriedly to</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>That is, I mean to say, you know,</div> - <div class='line'>A voucher for a ten pound note, or so.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>going up to the ladies</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pray what has happened?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To himself</i>.] This was unpropitious.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>throws his arms about</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver’s</span> <i>neck</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaim</div> - <div class='line'>A brother born to you in Amor’s name!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Drags him to the others.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to the gentlemen</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts,</div> - <div class='line'>Affianced lovers!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>with tears of emotion</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>’Tis the eighth in order</div> - <div class='line'>Who well-provided from this house departs;</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - <div class='line'>Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_335'>335</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, there will come a flood of gratulation!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Caresses her with emotion</i>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>seizing</i> <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> <i>hand</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold! As a plighted man you are a member</div> - <div class='line'>Of Rapture’s Temperance-association.</div> - <div class='line'>Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Turning to</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>sympathetically.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Well, my good sir!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>beaming with pleasure</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>I think this promises</div> - <div class='line'>All happiness for both.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>staring at him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>You seem to stand</div> - <div class='line'>The shock with exemplary self-command.</div> - <div class='line'>That’s well.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>What do you mean, sir?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in38'>Only this;</div> - <div class='line'>That inasmuch as you appeared to feed</div> - <div class='line'>Fond expectations of your own—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Indeed?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_336'>336</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>At any rate, you were upon the scent.</div> - <div class='line'>You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spot</div> - <div class='line'>And asked me—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>There are two, though, are there not?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was—the other sister that you meant?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>That</em> sister, yes, the other one,—just so.</div> - <div class='line'>Judge for yourself, when you have come to know</div> - <div class='line'>That sister better, if she has not in her</div> - <div class='line'>Merits which, if they were divined, would win her</div> - <div class='line'>A little more regard than we bestow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>coldly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Her virtues are of every known variety</div> - <div class='line'>I’m sure.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Not quite; the accent of society</div> - <div class='line'>She cannot hit exactly; there she loses.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A grievous fault.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_337'>337</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>But if her mother chooses</div> - <div class='line'>To spend a winter on her, she’ll come out of it</div> - <div class='line'>Queen of them all, I’ll wager.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Not a doubt of it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Young women are odd creatures, to be sure!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>gaily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Like winter rye-seed, canopied secure</div> - <div class='line'>By frost and snow, invisibly they sprout.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then in the festive ball-room bedded out—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With equivoque and scandal for manure—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And when the April sun shines—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>There the blade is;</div> - <div class='line'>The seed shot up in mannikin green ladies!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<span class='sc'>Lind</span> <i>comes up and seizes</i> <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> <i>hand.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_338'>338</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How well I chose,—past understanding well;—</div> - <div class='line'>I feel a bliss that nothing can dispel.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There stands your mistress; tell us, if you can,</div> - <div class='line'>The right demeanor for a plighted man.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>perturbed</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s a third person’s business to declare.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>joking</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ill-tempered! This to Anna’s ears I’ll bear.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes to the ladies.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>looking after him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Can such a man be tolerated?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>You</div> - <div class='line'>Mistook his aim, however,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>And how so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was not Anna that he had in view.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How, was it Svanhild?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_339'>339</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Well, I hardly know.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Whimsically.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Forgive me, martyr to another’s cause!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What do you mean?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>You’ve read the news to-night?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>Do so. There ’tis told in black and white</div> - <div class='line'>Of one who, ill-luck’s bitter counsel taking,</div> - <div class='line'>Had his sound teeth extracted from his jaws</div> - <div class='line'>Because his cousin-german’s teeth were aching.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>looking out to the left</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here comes the priest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Now see a man of might!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Five children, six, seven, eight—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>And, heavens, all recent!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_340'>340</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ugh! it is almost to be called indecent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>A carriage has meantime been heard stopping -outside to the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>, <i>his -wife, and eight little girls, all in travelling -dress, enter one by one.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>advancing to meet them</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Welcome, a hearty welcome!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Thank you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in39'>Is it</div> - <div class='line'>A party?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>No, dear madam, not at all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If we disturb you—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'><span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>Au contraire</i></span>, your visit</div> - <div class='line'>Could in no wise more opportunely fall.</div> - <div class='line'>My Anna’s just engaged.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>shaking</i> <span class='sc'>Anna’s</span> <i>hand with unction</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Ah then, I must</div> - <div class='line'>Bear witness;—Lo! in wedded Love’s presented</div> - <div class='line'>A treasure such as neither moth nor rust</div> - <div class='line'>Corrupt—if it be duly supplemented.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_341'>341</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But how delightful that your little maids</div> - <div class='line'>Should follow you to town.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Four tender blades</div> - <div class='line'>We have besides.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Ah, really?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Three of whom</div> - <div class='line'>Are still too infantine to take to heart</div> - <div class='line'>A loving father’s absence, when I come</div> - <div class='line'>To town for sessions.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span>, <i>bidding farewell</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Now I must depart.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, it is still so early!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>I must fly</div> - <div class='line'>To town and spread the news. The Storms, I know,</div> - <div class='line'>Go late to rest, they will be up; and oh!</div> - <div class='line'>How glad the aunts will be! Now, dear, put by</div> - <div class='line'>Your shyness; for to-morrow a spring-tide</div> - <div class='line'>Of callers will flow in from every side!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_342'>342</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, then, good-night.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To the others.</i></div> - <div class='line in20'>Now friends, what would you say</div> - <div class='line'>To drinking tea?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - <div class='line in18'>Pray, madam, lead the way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm, Strawman</span>, <i>his wife and -children, with</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad, Lind</span>, <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Anna</span> <i>go into the house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>taking</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver’s</span> <i>arm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now let’s be tender! Look how softly floats</div> - <div class='line'>Queen Luna on her throne o’er lawn and lea!—</div> - <div class='line'>Well, but you are not looking!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>crossly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Yes, I see;</div> - <div class='line'>I’m thinking of the promissory notes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They go out to the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>who has -been continuously watching</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span> -<i>and his wife, remains behind alone in the -garden. It is now dark; the house is -lighted up.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All is as if burnt out;—all desolate, dead—!</div> - <div class='line'>So thro’ the world they wander, two and two;</div> - <div class='line'>Charred wreckage, like the blackened stems that strew</div> - <div class='line'>The forest when the withering fire is fled.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_343'>343</span>Far as the eye can travel, all is drought,</div> - <div class='line'>And nowhere peeps one spray of verdure out!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>comes out on to the verandah -with a flowering rose-tree which she sets -down.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes one—yes one—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Falk, in the dark?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in41'>And fearless!</div> - <div class='line'>Darkness to me is fair, and light is cheerless</div> - <div class='line'>But are not <em class='gesperrt'>you</em> afraid in yonder walls</div> - <div class='line'>Where the lamp’s light on sallow corpses falls—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shame!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>looking after</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span> <i>who appears at the window</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>He was once so brilliant and so strong;</div> - <div class='line'>Warred with the world to win his mistress; passed</div> - <div class='line'>For Custom’s doughtiest iconoclast;</div> - <div class='line'>And poured forth love in pæans of glad song—!</div> - <div class='line'>Look at him now! In solemn robes and wraps,</div> - <div class='line'>A two-legged drama on his own collapse!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_344'>344</span>And she, the limp-skirt slattern, with the shoes</div> - <div class='line'>Heel-trodden, that squeak and clatter in her traces,</div> - <div class='line'>This is the winged maid who was his Muse</div> - <div class='line'>And escort to the kingdom of the graces!</div> - <div class='line'>Of all that fire this puff of smoke’s the end!</div> - <div class='line'><span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>Sic transit gloria amoris</i></span>, friend.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it is wretched, wretched past compare.</div> - <div class='line'>I know of no one’s lot that I would share.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>eagerly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then let us two rise up and bid defiance</div> - <div class='line'>To this same order Art, not Nature, bred!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>shaking her head</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then were the cause for which we made alliance</div> - <div class='line'>Ruined, as sure as this is earth we tread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, triumph waits upon two souls in unity.</div> - <div class='line'>To Custom’s parish-church no more we’ll wend,</div> - <div class='line'>Seatholders in the Philistine community.</div> - <div class='line'>See, Personality’s one aim and end</div> - <div class='line'>Is to be independent, free and true.</div> - <div class='line'>In that I am not wanting, nor are you.</div> - <div class='line'>A fiery spirit pulses in your veins,</div> - <div class='line'>For thoughts that master, you have words that burn;</div> - <div class='line'>The corslet of convention, that constrains</div> - <div class='line'>The beating hearts of other maids, you spurn.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_345'>345</span>The voice that you were born with will not chime to</div> - <div class='line'>The chorus Custom’s baton gives the time to.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And do you think pain has not often pressed</div> - <div class='line'>Tears from my eyes, and quiet from my breast?</div> - <div class='line'>I longed to shape my way to my own bent—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“In pensive ease?”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>O no, ’twas sternly meant.</div> - <div class='line'>But then the aunts came in with well-intended</div> - <div class='line'>Advice, the matter must be sifted, weighed—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Coming nearer.</i></div> - <div class='line'>“In pensive ease,” you say; oh no, I made</div> - <div class='line'>A bold experiment—in art.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Which ended—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>In failure. I lacked talent for the brush.</div> - <div class='line'>The thirst for freedom, tho’, I could not crush;</div> - <div class='line'>Checked at the easel, it essayed the stage—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That plan was shattered also, I engage?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_346'>346</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Upon the eldest aunt’s suggestion, yes;</div> - <div class='line'>She much preferred a place as governess—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But of all this I never heard a word!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No wonder; they took care that none was heard.</div> - <div class='line'>They trembled at the risk “my future” ran</div> - <div class='line'>If this were whispered to unmarried Man.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>after gazing a moment at her in meditative sympathy</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That such must be your lot I long had guessed.</div> - <div class='line'>When first I met you, I can well recall,</div> - <div class='line'>You seemed to me quite other than the rest,</div> - <div class='line'>Beyond the comprehension of them all.</div> - <div class='line'>They sat at table,—fragrant tea a-brewing,</div> - <div class='line'>And small-talk humming with the tea in tune,</div> - <div class='line'>The young girls blushing and the young men cooing,</div> - <div class='line'>Like pigeons on a sultry afternoon.</div> - <div class='line'>Old maids and matrons volubly averred</div> - <div class='line'>Morality and faith’s supreme felicity,</div> - <div class='line'>Young wives were loud in praise of domesticity,</div> - <div class='line'>While you stood lonely like a mateless bird.</div> - <div class='line'>And when at last the gabbling clamour rose</div> - <div class='line'>To a tea-orgy, a debauch of prose,</div> - <div class='line'>You seemed a piece of silver, newly minted,</div> - <div class='line'>Among foul notes and coppers dulled and dinted.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_347'>347</span>You were a coin imported, alien, strange,</div> - <div class='line'>Here valued at another rate of change,</div> - <div class='line'>Not passing current in that babel mart</div> - <div class='line'>Of poetry and butter, cheese and art.</div> - <div class='line'>Then—while Miss Jay in triumph took the field—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>gravely</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Her knight behind her, like a champion bold,</div> - <div class='line'>His hat upon his elbow, like a shield—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c022'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your mother nodded to your untouched cup:</div> - <div class='line'>“Drink, Svanhild dear, before your tea grows cold.”</div> - <div class='line'>And then you drank the vapid liquor up,</div> - <div class='line'>The mawkish brew beloved of young and old.</div> - <div class='line'>But that name gripped me with a sudden spell;</div> - <div class='line'>The grim old Völsungs as they fought and fell,</div> - <div class='line'>With all their faded æons, seemed to rise</div> - <div class='line'>In never-ending line before my eyes.</div> - <div class='line'>In you I saw a Svanhild, like the old,</div> - <div class='line'>But fashioned to the modern age’s mould.</div> - <div class='line'>Sick of its hollow warfare is the world;</div> - <div class='line'>Its lying banner it would fain have furled;</div> - <div class='line'>But when the world does evil, its offence</div> - <div class='line'>Is blotted in the blood of innocence.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with gentle irony</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c022'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I think, at any rate, the fumes of tea</div> - <div class='line'>Must answer for that direful fantasy;</div> - <div class='line'>But ’tis your least achievement, past dispute,</div> - <div class='line'>To hear the spirit speaking, when ’tis mute.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_348'>348</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with emotion</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, Svanhild, do not jest: behind your scoff</div> - <div class='line'>Tears glitter,—O, I see them plain enough.</div> - <div class='line'>And I see more: when you to dust are fray’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And kneaded to a formless lump of clay,</div> - <div class='line'>Each bungling dilettante’s scalpel-blade</div> - <div class='line'>On you his dull devices shall display.</div> - <div class='line'>The world usurps the creature of God’s hand</div> - <div class='line'>And sets its image in the place of His,</div> - <div class='line'>Transforms, enlarges that part, lightens this;</div> - <div class='line'>And when upon the pedestal you stand</div> - <div class='line'>Complete, cries out in triumph: “<em class='gesperrt'>Now</em> she is</div> - <div class='line'>At last what woman ought to be: Behold,</div> - <div class='line'>How plastically calm, how marble-cold!</div> - <div class='line'>Bathed in the lamplight’s soft irradiation,</div> - <div class='line'>How well in keeping with the decoration!”</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Passionately seizing her hand.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But if you are to die, live first! Come forth</div> - <div class='line'>With me into the glory of God’s earth!</div> - <div class='line'>Soon, soon the gilded cage will claim its prize.</div> - <div class='line'>The Lady thrives there, but the Woman dies,</div> - <div class='line'>And I love nothing but the Woman in you.</div> - <div class='line'>There, if they will, let others woo and win you,</div> - <div class='line'>But here, my spring of life began to shoot,</div> - <div class='line'>Here my Song-tree put forth its firstling fruit;</div> - <div class='line'>Here I found wings and flight:—Svanhild, I know it,</div> - <div class='line'>Only be mine,—here I shall grow a poet!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>in gentle reproof, withdrawing her hand</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, why have you betrayed yourself? How sweet</div> - <div class='line'>It was when we as friends could freely meet!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_349'>349</span>You should have kept your counsel. Can we stake</div> - <div class='line'>Our bliss upon a word that we may break?</div> - <div class='line'>Now you have spoken, all is over.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>No!</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve pointed to the goal,—now leap with me,</div> - <div class='line'>My high-souled Svanhild—if you dare, and show</div> - <div class='line'>That you have heart and courage to be free.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Be free?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Yes, free, for freedom’s all-in-all</div> - <div class='line'>Is absolutely to fulfil our Call.</div> - <div class='line'>And you by heaven were destined, I know well,</div> - <div class='line'>To be my bulwark against beauty’s spell.</div> - <div class='line'>I, like my falcon namesake, have to swing</div> - <div class='line'>Against the wind, if I would reach the sky!</div> - <div class='line'>You are the breeze I must be breasted by,</div> - <div class='line'>You, only you, put vigour in my wing:</div> - <div class='line'>Be mine, be mine, until the world shall take you,</div> - <div class='line'>When leaves are falling, then our paths shall part</div> - <div class='line'>Sing unto me the treasures of your heart,</div> - <div class='line'>And for each song another song I’ll make you;</div> - <div class='line'>So may you pass into the lamplit glow</div> - <div class='line'>Of age, as forests fade without a throe.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_350'>350</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with suppressed bitterness</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I cannot thank you, for your words betray</div> - <div class='line'>The meaning of your kind solicitude.</div> - <div class='line'>You eye me as a boy a sallow, good</div> - <div class='line'>To cut and play the flute on for a day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, better than to linger in the swamp</div> - <div class='line'>Till autumn choke it with her grey mists damp!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Vehemently.</i></div> - <div class='line'>You must! you shall! To me you must present</div> - <div class='line'>What God to you so bountifully lent.</div> - <div class='line'>I speak in song what you in dreams have meant.</div> - <div class='line'>See yonder bird I innocently slew,</div> - <div class='line'>Her warbling was Song’s book of books for you.</div> - <div class='line'>O, yield your music as she yielded hers!</div> - <div class='line'>My life shall be that music set to verse!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And when you know me, when my songs are flown,</div> - <div class='line'>And my last requiem chanted from the bough,—</div> - <div class='line'>What then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>observing her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>What then? Ah well, remember now!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pointing to the garden.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>gently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, I remember you can drive a stone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_351'>351</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with a scornful laugh</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This is your vaunted soul of freedom therefore!</div> - <div class='line'>All daring, if it had an end to dare for!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Vehemently.</i></div> - <div class='line'>I’ve shown you one; now, once for all, your yea</div> - <div class='line'>Or nay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>You know the answer I must make you:</div> - <div class='line'>I never can accept you in your way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>coldly, breaking off</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then there’s an end of it; the world may take you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>has silently turned away. She -supports her hands upon the verandah -railing, and rests her head upon them.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Walks several times up and down, takes a -cigar, stops near her and says, after a -pause:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You think the topic of my talk to-night</div> - <div class='line'>Extremely ludicrous, I should not wonder?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pauses for an answer.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>is silent.</i></div> - <div class='line'>I’m very conscious that it was a blunder;</div> - <div class='line'>Sister’s and daughter’s love alone possess you;</div> - <div class='line'>Henceforth I’ll wear kid gloves when I address you,</div> - <div class='line'>Sure, so, of being understood aright.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Pauses, but as</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>remains motionless, -he turns and goes towards the -right.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_352'>352</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>lifting her head after a brief silence, looking at him and drawing nearer</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now I will recompense your kind intent</div> - <div class='line'>To save me, with an earnest admonition.</div> - <div class='line'>That falcon-image gave me sudden vision</div> - <div class='line'>What your “emancipation” really meant.</div> - <div class='line'>You said you were the falcon, that must fight</div> - <div class='line'>Athwart the wind if it would reach the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>I was the breeze you must be breasted by,</div> - <div class='line'>Else vain were all your faculty of flight;</div> - <div class='line'>How pitifully mean! How paltry! Nay</div> - <div class='line'>How ludicrous, as you yourself divined!</div> - <div class='line'>That seed, however, fell not by the way,</div> - <div class='line'>But bred another fancy in my mind</div> - <div class='line'>Of a far more illuminating kind.</div> - <div class='line'>You, as I saw it, were no falcon, but</div> - <div class='line'>A tuneful dragon, out of paper cut,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose Ego holds a secondary station,</div> - <div class='line'>Dependent on the string for animation;</div> - <div class='line'>Its breast was scrawled with promises to pay</div> - <div class='line'>In cash poetic,—at some future day;</div> - <div class='line'>The wings were stiff with barbs and shafts of wit</div> - <div class='line'>That wildly beat the air, but never hit;</div> - <div class='line'>The tail was a satiric rod in pickle</div> - <div class='line'>To castigate the town’s infirmities,</div> - <div class='line'>But all it compass’d was to lightly tickle</div> - <div class='line'>The casual doer of some small amiss.</div> - <div class='line'>So you lay helpless at my feet, imploring:</div> - <div class='line'>“O raise me, how and where is all the same!</div> - <div class='line'>Give me the power of singing and of soaring.</div> - <div class='line'>No matter at what cost of bitter blame!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>clenching his fists in inward agitation</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Heaven be my witness—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_353'>353</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>No, you must be told:—</div> - <div class='line'>For such a childish sport I am too old.</div> - <div class='line'>But you, whom Nature made for high endeavour,</div> - <div class='line'>Are you content the fields of air to tread</div> - <div class='line'>Hanging your poet’s life upon a thread</div> - <div class='line'>That at my pleasure I can slip and sever?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>hurriedly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is the date to-day?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>more gently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Why, now, that’s right!</div> - <div class='line'>Mind well this day, and heed it, and beware;</div> - <div class='line'>Trust to your own wings only for your flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Sure, if they do not break, that they will bear.</div> - <div class='line'>The paper poem for the desk is fit,</div> - <div class='line'>That which is lived alone has life in it;</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>That</em> only has the wings that scale the height;</div> - <div class='line'>Choose now between them, poet: be, or write!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Nearer to him.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Now I have done what you besought me; now</div> - <div class='line'>My requiem is chanted from the bough;</div> - <div class='line'>My only one; now all my songs are flown;</div> - <div class='line'>Now, if you will, I’m ready for the stone!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She goes into the house;</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>remains -motionless, looking after her; far out on -the fjord is seen a boat, from which the -following chorus is faintly heard:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_354'>354</span><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My wings I open, my sails spread wide,</div> - <div class='line'>And cleave like an eagle life’s glassy tide;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Gulls follow my furrow’s foaming;</div> - <div class='line'>Overboard with the ballast of care and cark;</div> - <div class='line'>And what if I shatter my roaming bark,</div> - <div class='line in2'>It is passing sweet to be roaming!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>starting from a reverie</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What, music? Ah, it will be Lind’s quartette</div> - <div class='line'>Getting their jubilation up.—Well met!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span>, <i>who enters with an overcoat -on his arm</i>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, slipping off, sir?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Yes, with your goodwill.</div> - <div class='line'>But let me first put on my overcoat.</div> - <div class='line'>We prose-folks are susceptible to chill;</div> - <div class='line'>The night wind takes us by the tuneless throat.</div> - <div class='line'>Good evening!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Sir, a word ere you proceed!</div> - <div class='line'>Show me a task, a mighty one, you know—!</div> - <div class='line'>I’m going in for life—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>with ironical emphasis</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Well, in you go!</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll find that you are in for it, indeed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_355'>355</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>looking reflectively at him, says slowly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There is my program, furnished in a phrase.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>In a lively outburst.</i></div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Now</em> I have wakened from my dreaming days,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve cast the die of life’s supreme transaction,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll show you—else the devil take me—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in38'>Fie,</div> - <div class='line'>No cursing: curses never scared a fly.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Words, words, no more, but action, only action!</div> - <div class='line'>I will reverse the plan of the Creation;—</div> - <div class='line'>Six days were lavish’d in that occupation;</div> - <div class='line'>My world’s still lying void and desolate,</div> - <div class='line'>Hurrah, to-morrow, Sunday—I’ll create!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, strip, and tackle it like a man, that’s right!</div> - <div class='line'>But first go in and sleep on it. Good-night!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes out to the left.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>appears -in the room over the verandah; she shuts -the window and draws down the blind.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, first I’ll act. I’ve slept too long and late.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Looks up at</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild’s</span> <i>window, and exclaims, -as if seized with a sudden resolution:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_356'>356</span>Good-night! Good-night! Sweet dreams to-night be thine;</div> - <div class='line'>To-morrow, Svanhild, thou art plighted mine!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes out quickly to the right; from the -water the</i> <span class='sc'>Chorus</span> <i>is heard again.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Maybe I shall shatter my roaming bark,</div> - <div class='line'>But it’s passing sweet to be roaming!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>The boat slowly glides away as the curtain falls.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_357'>357</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT SECOND.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>Sunday afternoon. Well-dressed ladies and -gentlemen are drinking coffee on the verandah. -Several of the guests appear -through the open glass door in the garden-room; -the following song is heard from -within.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c034'> - <div><span class='sc'>Chorus.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Welcome, welcome, new plighted pair</div> - <div class='line'>To the merry ranks of the plighted!</div> - <div class='line'>Now you may revel as free as air,</div> - <div class='line'>Caress without stint and kiss without care,—</div> - <div class='line'>No longer of footfall affrighted.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now you are licensed, wherever you go,</div> - <div class='line'>To the rapture of cooing and billing;</div> - <div class='line'>Now you have leisure love’s seed to sow,</div> - <div class='line'>Water, and tend it, and make it grow;—</div> - <div class='line'>Let us see you’ve a talent for tilling!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>within</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah Lind, if I only had chanced to hear,</div> - <div class='line'>I would have teased you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Lady</span> [<i>within</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>How vexatious though!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_358'>358</span><span class='sc'>Another Lady</span> [<i>in the doorway</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dear Anna, did he ask in writing?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Aunt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>No!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Mine</em> did.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Lady</span> [<i>on the verandah</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>How long has it been secret, dear?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Runs into the room.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To-morrow there will be the ring to choose.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies</span> [<i>eagerly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We’ll take his measure!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Nay; that <em class='gesperrt'>she</em> must do.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span> [<i>on the verandah, to a lady who is busy with embroidery</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What kind of knitting-needles do you use?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Servant</span> [<i>in the door with a coffee-pot</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>More coffee, madam?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Lady.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Thanks, a drop or two.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_359'>359</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How fortunate you’ve got your new manteau</div> - <div class='line'>Next week to go your round of visits in!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Elderly Lady</span> [<i>at the window</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>When shall we go and order the trousseau?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How are they selling cotton-bombasine?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Gentleman</span> [<i>to some ladies on the verandah</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just look at Lind and Anna; what’s his sport?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies</span> [<i>with shrill ecstasy</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Gracious, he kissed her glove!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others</span> [<i>similarly, springing up</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>No! Kiss’d it? Really?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>appears, red and embarrassed, in the doorway</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, stuff and nonsense!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Disappears.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Yes, I saw it clearly.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span></div> - <div>[<i>in the door, with a coffee-cup in one hand and a biscuit in the other</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The witnesses must not mislead the court;</div> - <div class='line'>I here make affidavit, they’re in error.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_360'>360</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>within</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come forward, Anna; stand before this mirror!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Some Ladies</span> [<i>calling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, too, Lind!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Back to back! A little nearer!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come, let us see by how much she is short.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>All run into the garden-room; laughter -and shrill talk are heard for a while -from within</i>.</p> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>who during the preceding scene -has been walking about in the garden, -advances into the foreground, stops and -looks in until the noise has somewhat -abated.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There love’s romance is being done to death.—</div> - <div class='line'>The butcher once who boggled at the slaughter,</div> - <div class='line'>Prolonging needlessly the ox’s breath,—</div> - <div class='line'>He got his twenty days of bread and water;</div> - <div class='line'>But these—these butchers yonder—they go</div> - <div class='line'>free. [<i>Clenches his fist.</i></div> - <div class='line'>I could be tempted—; hold, words have no worth,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve sworn it, action only from henceforth!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>coming hastily but cautiously out</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thank God, they’re talking fashions; now’s my chance</div> - <div class='line'>To slip away—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_361'>361</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Ha, Lind, <em class='gesperrt'>you’ve</em> drawn the prize</div> - <div class='line'>Of luck,—-congratulations buzz and dance</div> - <div class='line'>All day about you, like a swarm of flies.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>They’re all at heart so kindly and so nice;</div> - <div class='line'>But rather fewer clients would suffice.</div> - <div class='line'>Their helping hands begin to gall and fret me;</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll get a moment’s respite, if they’ll let me.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Going out to the right.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whither away?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Our den;—it has a lock;</div> - <div class='line'>In case you find the oak is sported, knock.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But shall I not fetch Anna to you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in36'>No—</div> - <div class='line'>If she wants anything, she’ll let me know.</div> - <div class='line'>Last night we were discussing until late;</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve settled almost everything of weight;</div> - <div class='line'>Besides I think it scarcely goes with piety</div> - <div class='line'>To have too much of one’s beloved’s society.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, you are right; for daily food we need</div> - <div class='line'>A simple diet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_362'>362</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Pray excuse me, friend.</div> - <div class='line'>I want a whiff of reason and the weed;</div> - <div class='line'>I haven’t smoked for three whole days on end.</div> - <div class='line'>My blood was pulsing in such agitation,</div> - <div class='line'>I trembled for rejection all the time—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, you may well desire recuperation—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And won’t tobacco’s flavour be sublime!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes out to the right.</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>and some -other</i> <span class='sc'>Ladies</span> <i>come out of the garden-room.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That was <em class='gesperrt'>he</em> surely?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Yes, your hunted deer.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To run away from us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>For shame! For shame!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis a bit shy at present, but, no fear,</div> - <div class='line'>A week of servitude will make him tame.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_363'>363</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>looking round</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where is he hid?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>His present hiding-place</div> - <div class='line'>Is in the garden loft, our common lair;</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Blandly.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But let me beg you not to seek him there;</div> - <div class='line'>Give him a breathing time!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Well, good: the grace</div> - <div class='line'>Will not be long, tho’.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Nay, be generous!</div> - <div class='line'>Ten minutes,—then begin the game again.</div> - <div class='line'>He has an English sermon on the brain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>An English—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>O you laugh! You’re fooling us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m in grim earnest. ’Tis his fixed intention</div> - <div class='line'>To take a charge among the emigrants,</div> - <div class='line'>And therefore—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>with horror</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Heavens, he had the face to mention</div> - <div class='line'>That mad idea?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To the ladies.</i></div> - <div class='line in16'>O quick—fetch all the aunts!</div> - <div class='line'>Anna, her mother, Mrs. Strawman too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_364'>364</span><span class='sc'>Ladies</span> [<i>agitated</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This must be stopped!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>All.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>We’ll make a great ado!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thank God, they’re coming.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>, <i>who comes from the garden-room -with</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>, <i>his wife and children</i>, -<span class='sc'>Stiver, Guldstad, Mrs. Halm</span> -<i>and the other guests.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Do you know what Lind</div> - <div class='line'>Has secretly determined in his mind?</div> - <div class='line'>To go as missionary—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Yes, I know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you’ve agreed—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>embarrassed</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>That I will also go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>indignant</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s talked this stuff to you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Ladies</span> [<i>clasping their hands together</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>What tyranny!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_365'>365</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But think, his Call that would not be denied—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tut, that’s what people follow when they’re free:</div> - <div class='line'>A bridegroom follows nothing but his bride.—</div> - <div class='line'>No, my sweet Anna, ponder, I entreat:</div> - <div class='line'>You, reared in comfort from your earliest breath—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet, sure, to suffer for the faith is sweet!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is one to suffer for one’s bridegroom’s faith?</div> - <div class='line'>That is a rather novel point of view.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To the ladies</i>.</div> - <div class='line'>Ladies, attend!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Takes</i> <span class='sc'>Anna’s</span> <i>arm.</i></div> - <div class='line in17'>Now listen; then repeat</div> - <div class='line'>For his instruction what he has to do.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They go into the background and out to -the right in eager talk with several of -the ladies; the other guests disperse in -groups about the garden.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>stops</i> -<span class='sc'>Strawman</span>, <i>whose wife and children -keep close to him.</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>goes to -and fro during the following conversation.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come, pastor, help young fervour in its fight,</div> - <div class='line'>Before they lure Miss Anna from her vows.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_366'>366</span><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>in clerical cadence</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The wife must be submissive to the spouse;—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Reflecting.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But if I apprehended him aright,</div> - <div class='line'>His Call’s a problematical affair,</div> - <div class='line'>The Offering altogether in the air—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pray do not judge so rashly. I can give</div> - <div class='line'>You absolute assurance, as I live,</div> - <div class='line'>His Call is definite and incontestable—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>seeing it in a new light</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah—if there’s something fixed—investable—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Per annum</em>—then I’ve nothing more to say.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>impatiently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You think the most of what I count the least;</div> - <div class='line'>I mean the <em class='gesperrt'>inspiration</em>,—not the <em class='gesperrt'>pay</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [with an unctuous smile].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pay is the first condition of a priest</div> - <div class='line'>In Asia, Africa, America,</div> - <div class='line'>Or where you will. Ah yes, if he were free,</div> - <div class='line'>My dear young friend, I willingly agree,</div> - <div class='line'>The thing might pass; but, being pledged and bound,</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll scarcely find the venture very sound.</div> - <div class='line'>Reflect, he’s young and vigorous, sure to found</div> - <div class='line'>A little family in time; assume his will</div> - <div class='line'>To be the very best on earth—but still</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_367'>367</span>The <em class='gesperrt'>means</em>, my friend—? ‘Build not upon the sand,’</div> - <div class='line'>Says Scripture. If, upon the other hand,</div> - <div class='line'>The Offering—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>That’s no trifle, I’m aware.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, come—that wholly alters the affair.</div> - <div class='line'>When men are zealous in their Offering,</div> - <div class='line'>And liberal—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>There he far surpasses most.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“He” say you? How? In virtue of his post</div> - <div class='line'>The Offering is not what he has to <em class='gesperrt'>bring</em></div> - <div class='line'>But what he has to <em class='gesperrt'>get</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span> [<i>looking towards the background</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>They’re sitting there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>after staring a moment in amazement, -suddenly understands and bursts out -laughing</i>].</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah for Offerings—the ones that caper</div> - <div class='line'>And strut—on Holy-days—in bulging paper!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All the year round the curb and bit we bear,</div> - <div class='line'>But Whitsuntide and Christmas make things square.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_368'>368</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>gaily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why then, provided only there’s enough of it,</div> - <div class='line'>Even family-founders will obey their Calls.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Of course; a man assured the <span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>quantum suff</i></span> of it</div> - <div class='line'>Will preach the Gospel to the cannibals.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<span lang="it" xml:lang="it"><i>Sotto voce.</i></span></div> - <div class='line'>Now I must see if she cannot be led,</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To one of the little girls.</i></div> - <div class='line'>My little Mattie, fetch me out my head—</div> - <div class='line'>My pipe-head I should say, my little dear—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Feels in his coat-tail pocket.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Nay, wait a moment tho’: I have it here.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes across and fills his pipe, followed by -his wife and children.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>approaching</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You seem to play the part of serpent in</div> - <div class='line'>This paradise of lovers.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>O, the pips</div> - <div class='line'>Upon the tree of knowledge are too green</div> - <div class='line'>To be a lure for anybody’s lips.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>, <i>who comes in from the right.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Ha, Lind!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_369'>369</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>In heaven’s name, who’s been ravaging</div> - <div class='line'>Our sanctum? There the lamp lies dashed</div> - <div class='line'>To pieces, curtain dragged to floor, pen smashed,</div> - <div class='line'>And on the mantelpiece the ink pot splashed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>clapping him on the shoulder</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This wreck’s the first announcement of my spring;</div> - <div class='line'>No more behind drawn curtains I will sit,</div> - <div class='line'>Making pen poetry with lamp alit;</div> - <div class='line'>My dull domestic poetising’s done,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll walk by day, and glory in the sun:</div> - <div class='line'>My spring is come, my soul has broken free,</div> - <div class='line'>Action henceforth shall be my poetry.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Make poetry of what you please for me;</div> - <div class='line'>But how if Mrs. Halm should take amiss</div> - <div class='line'>Your breaking of her furniture to pieces?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What!—she, who lays her daughters and her nieces</div> - <div class='line'>Upon the altar of her boarders’ bliss,—</div> - <div class='line'>She frown at such a bagatelle as this?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>angrily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s utterly outrageous and unfair,</div> - <div class='line'>And compromises me as well as you!</div> - <div class='line'>But that’s her business, settle it with her.</div> - <div class='line'>The lamp was mine, tho’, shade and burner too—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_370'>370</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tut, on that head, I’ve no account to render;</div> - <div class='line'>You have God’s summer sunshine in its splendour,—</div> - <div class='line'>What would you with the lamp?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>You are grotesque;</div> - <div class='line'>You utterly forget that summer passes;</div> - <div class='line'>If I’m to make a figure in my classes</div> - <div class='line'>At Christmas I must buckle to my desk.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>staring at him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What, you look <em class='gesperrt'>forward</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>To be sure I do,</div> - <div class='line'>The examination’s amply worth it too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah but—you ‘only sit and live’—remember!</div> - <div class='line'>Drunk with the moment, you demand no more—</div> - <div class='line'>Not even a modest third-class next December.</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve caught the bird of Fortune fair and fleet,</div> - <div class='line'>You feel as if the world with all its store</div> - <div class='line'>Were scattered in profusion at your feet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Those were my words; they must be understood,</div> - <div class='line'>Of course, <span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>cum grano salis</i></span>—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_371'>371</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>Very good!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the <em class='gesperrt'>forenoons</em> I will enjoy my bliss;</div> - <div class='line'>That I am quite resolved on—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Daring man!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have my round of visits to the clan;</div> - <div class='line'>Time will run anyhow to waste in this;</div> - <div class='line'>But any further dislocation of</div> - <div class='line'>My study-plan I strongly disapprove.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A week ago, however, you were bent</div> - <div class='line'>On going out into God’s world with song.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, but I thought the tour a little long;</div> - <div class='line'>The fourteen days might well be better spent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, but you had another argument</div> - <div class='line'>For staying; how the lovely dale for you</div> - <div class='line'>Was mountain air and winged warble too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, to be sure, this air is unalloyed;</div> - <div class='line'>But all its benefits may be enjoyed</div> - <div class='line'>Over one’s book without the slightest bar.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_372'>372</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But it was just the <em class='gesperrt'>Book</em> which failed, you see,</div> - <div class='line'>As Jacob’s ladder—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>How perverse you are!</div> - <div class='line'>That is what people say when they are <em class='gesperrt'>free</em>—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span></div> - <div class='c000'>[<i>looking at him and folding his hands in silent</i></div> - <div><i>amazement</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou also, Brutus!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>with a shade of confusion and annoyance</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Pray remember, do!</div> - <div class='line'>That I have other duties now than you;</div> - <div class='line'>I have my <i>fiancée</i>. Every plighted pair,</div> - <div class='line'>Those of prolonged experience not excepted,—</div> - <div class='line'>Whose evidence you would not wish rejected,—</div> - <div class='line'>Will tell you, that if two are bound to fare</div> - <div class='line'>Through life together, they must—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Prithee spare</div> - <div class='line'>The comment; who supplied it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Well, we’ll say</div> - <div class='line'>Stiver, he’s honest surely; and Miss Jay,</div> - <div class='line'>Who has such very great experience here,</div> - <div class='line'>She says—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_373'>373</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Well, but the Parson and his—dear?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, they’re remarkable. There broods above</div> - <div class='line'>Them such placidity, such quietude,—</div> - <div class='line'>Conceive, she can’t remember being wooed,</div> - <div class='line'>Has quite forgotten what is meant by love.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah yes, when one has slumber’d over long,</div> - <div class='line'>The birds of memory refuse their song.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Laying his hand on</i> <span class='sc'>Lind’s</span> <i>shoulder, with -an ironical look.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Lind, slept sound last night, I guarantee?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And long. I went to bed in such depression,</div> - <div class='line'>And yet with such a fever in my brain,</div> - <div class='line'>I almost doubted if I could be sane.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah yes, a sort of witchery, you see.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thank God I woke in perfect self-possession.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>During the foregoing scene</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span> -<i>has been seen from time to time walking -in the background in lively conversation -with</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>; <span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span> <i>and the -children follow.</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>now appears -also, and with her</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and other -ladies.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_374'>374</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>before she enters</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, Mr. Lind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>They’re after me again!</div> - <div class='line'>Come, let us go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Nay, nay, you must remain,</div> - <div class='line'>Let us make speedy end of the division</div> - <div class='line'>That has crept in between your love and you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Are we divided?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>, <i>who is standing further off in the garden</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Gather the decision</div> - <div class='line'>From yon red eyes. The foreign mission drew</div> - <div class='line'>Those tears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>But heavens, she was glad to go—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <a id='corr374.19'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='('>[</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_374.19'><ins class='correction' title='('>[</ins></a></span><i>scoffing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, to be sure, one would imagine so!</div> - <div class='line'>No, my dear Lind, you’ll take another view</div> - <div class='line'>When you have heard the whole affair discussed;</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But then this warfare for the faith, you know,</div> - <div class='line'>Is my most cherished dream!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_375'>375</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>O who would build</div> - <div class='line'>On dreaming in this century of light?</div> - <div class='line'>Why, Stiver had a dream the other night;</div> - <div class='line'>There came a letter singularly sealed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s <em class='gesperrt'>treasure</em> such a dream prognosticates.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>nodding</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, and next day they sued him for the rates.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>The ladies make a circle round <span class='sc'>Lind</span> and -go in conversation with him into the -garden.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>continuing, to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>, <i>who faintly tries to escape</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>From these considerations, daughter mine,</div> - <div class='line'>From these considerations, buttressed all</div> - <div class='line'>With reason, morals, and the Word Divine,</div> - <div class='line'>You now perceive that to desert your Call</div> - <div class='line'>Were absolutely inexcusable.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>half crying</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh! I’m so young—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>And it is natural,</div> - <div class='line'>I own, that one should tremble to essay</div> - <div class='line'>These perils, dare the lures that there waylay;</div> - <div class='line'>But from doubt’s tangle you must now break free,—</div> - <div class='line'>Be of good cheer and follow Moll and me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_376'>376</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, your dear mother tells me that I too</div> - <div class='line'>Was just as inconsolable as you</div> - <div class='line'>When we received our Call—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>And for like cause—</div> - <div class='line'>The fascination of the town—it was;</div> - <div class='line'>But when a little money had come in,</div> - <div class='line'>And the first pairs of infants, twin by twin,</div> - <div class='line'>She quite got over it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i><span lang="it" xml:lang="it">sotto voce</span> to</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Bravo, you able</div> - <div class='line'>Persuader.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>nodding to him and turning again to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Now you’ve promised me, be stable.</div> - <div class='line'>Shall man renounce his work? Falk says the Call</div> - <div class='line'>Is not so very slender after all.</div> - <div class='line'>Did you not, Falk?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Nay, pastor—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>To be sure—!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - <div class='line'>Of something then at least you are secure.</div> - <div class='line'>What’s gained by giving up, if that is so?</div> - <div class='line'>Look back into the ages long ago,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_377'>377</span>See, Adam, Eve—the Ark, see, pair by pair,</div> - <div class='line'>Birds in the field—the lilies in the air,</div> - <div class='line'>The little birds—the little birds—the fishes—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Continues in a lower tone, as he withdraws -with</i> <span class='sc'>Anna.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>and the</i> <span class='sc'>Aunts</span> <i>return with</i> -<span class='sc'>Lind.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah! Here come the veterans in array;</div> - <div class='line'>The old guard charging to retrieve the day!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, in exact accordance with our wishes!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Aside.</i></div> - <div class='line'>We <em class='gesperrt'>have</em> him, Falk!—Now let us tackle <em class='gesperrt'>her</em>!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>with a deprecating motion</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She needs no secular solicitation;</div> - <div class='line'>The Spirit has spoken, what can Earth bestead—?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Modestly.</i></div> - <div class='line'>If in some small degree my words have sped,</div> - <div class='line'>Power was vouchsafed me—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Come, no more evasion,</div> - <div class='line'>Bring them together!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Aunts</span> [<i>with emotion</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Ah, how exquisite!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_378'>378</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, can there be a heart so dull and dead</div> - <div class='line'>As not to be entranced at such a sight!</div> - <div class='line'>It is so thrilling and so penetrating,</div> - <div class='line'>So lacerating, so exhilarating,</div> - <div class='line'>To see an innocent babe devoutly lay</div> - <div class='line'>Its offering on Duty’s altar.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>Her family have also done their part.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I and the Aunts—I should imagine so.</div> - <div class='line'>You, Lind, may have the key to Anna’s heart,</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Presses his hand.</i></div> - <div class='line'>But we possess a picklock, you must know,</div> - <div class='line'>Able to open where the key avails not.</div> - <div class='line'>And if in years to come, cares throng and thwart,</div> - <div class='line'>Only apply to us, our friendship fails not.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, we shall hover round you all your life,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And shield you from the fiend of wedded strife.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Enchanting group! Love, friendship, hour of gladness,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet so pathetically touched with sadness.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Turning to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_379'>379</span>But now, young man, pray make an end of this.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Leading</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span> <i>to him.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Take thy betrothed—receive her—with a kiss!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>giving his hand to</i> <span class='sc'>Anna</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I stay at home!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>at the same moment</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I go with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>amazed</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>You stay?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>equally so</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>You go with me?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>with a helpless glance at the company</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, then, we are divided as before!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What’s this?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>What now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>excitedly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Our wills are all at war—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She gave her solemn word to cross the sea</div> - <div class='line'>With him!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_380'>380</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>And he gave his to stay ashore</div> - <div class='line'>With her!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>laughing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>They both complied; what would you more!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>These complications are too much for me.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes towards the background.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Aunts</span> [<i>to one another</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How in the world came they to disagree?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>, <i>who have been -walking in the garden and now approach.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The spirit of discord’s in possession here.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Talks aside to them.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>, <i>noticing that the table is -being laid.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There comes the tea.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>curtly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Thank heaven.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>Hurrah! a cheer</div> - <div class='line'>For love and friendship, maiden aunts and tea!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_381'>381</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if the case stands thus, the whole proceeding</div> - <div class='line'>May easily be ended with a laugh;</div> - <div class='line'>All turns upon a single paragraph,</div> - <div class='line'>Which bids the wife attend the spouse. No pleading</div> - <div class='line'>Can wrest an ordinance so clearly stated—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Doubtless, but does that help us to agree?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She must obey a law that heaven dictated.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Lind can circumvent that law, you see.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - <div class='line'>Put off your journey, and then—budge no jot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Aunts</span> [<i>delighted</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, that’s the way!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Agreed!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>That cuts the knot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>and the maids have meantime -laid the tea-table beside the verandah -steps. At</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm’s</span> <i>invitation the -ladies sit down. The rest of the company -take their places, partly on the verandah -<span class='pageno' id='Page_382'>382</span>and in the summer-house, partly -in the garden.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>sits on the verandah. -During the following scene they -drink tea.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And so our little storm is overblown.</div> - <div class='line'>Such summer showers do good when they are gone;</div> - <div class='line'>The sunshine greets us with a double boon,</div> - <div class='line'>And promises a cloudless afternoon.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah yes, Love’s blossom without rainy skies</div> - <div class='line'>Would never thrive according to our wishes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In dry land set it, and it forthwith dies;</div> - <div class='line'>For in so far the flowers are like the fishes—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, for Love lives, you know, upon the air—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Which is the death of fishes—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>So I say.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aha, we’ve put a bridle on you there!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The tea is good, one knows by the bouquet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_383'>383</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, let us keep the simile you chose.</div> - <div class='line'>Love is a flower; for if heaven’s blessed rain</div> - <div class='line'>Fall short, it all but pines to death—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pauses.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in42'>What then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with a gallant bow</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then come the aunts with the reviving hose.—</div> - <div class='line'>But poets have this simile employed,</div> - <div class='line'>And men for scores of centuries enjoyed,—</div> - <div class='line'>Yet hardly one its secret sense has hit;</div> - <div class='line'>For flowers are manifold and infinite.</div> - <div class='line'>Say, then, what flower is love? Name me, who knows,</div> - <div class='line'>The flower most like it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Why, it is the rose;</div> - <div class='line'>Good gracious, that’s exceedingly well known;—</div> - <div class='line'>Love, all agree, lends life a rosy tone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Young Lady.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is the snowdrop; growing, snow enfurled;</div> - <div class='line'>Till it peer forth, undreamt of by the world.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Aunt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is the dandelion,—made robust</div> - <div class='line'>By dint of human heel and horse hoof thrust;</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, shooting forth afresh when it is smitten,</div> - <div class='line'>As Pedersen so charmingly has written.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_384'>384</span><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is the bluebell,—ringing in for all</div> - <div class='line'>Young hearts life’s joyous Whitsun festival.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, ’tis an evergreen,—as fresh and gay</div> - <div class='line'>In desolate December as in May.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, Iceland moss, dry gathered,—far the best</div> - <div class='line'>Cure for young ladies with a wounded breast.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Gentleman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, the wild chestnut tree,—in high repute</div> - <div class='line'>For household fuel, but with a bitter fruit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, a camellia; at our balls, ’tis said,</div> - <div class='line'>The chief adornment of a lady’s head.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, it is like a flower, O such a bright one;—</div> - <div class='line'>Stay now—a blue one, no, it was a white one—</div> - <div class='line'>What is its name—? Dear me—the one I met—;</div> - <div class='line'>Well it is singular how I forget!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>None of these flower similitudes will run.</div> - <div class='line'>The flowerpot is a likelier candidate.</div> - <div class='line'>There’s only room in it, at once, for <em class='gesperrt'>one</em>;</div> - <div class='line'>But by progressive stages it holds <em class='gesperrt'>eight</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_385'>385</span><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>with his little girls round him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, love’s a pear tree; in the spring like snow</div> - <div class='line'>With myriad blossoms, which in summer grow</div> - <div class='line'>To pearlets; in the parent’s sap each shares;—</div> - <div class='line'>And with God’s help they’ll all alike prove pears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So many heads, so many sentences!</div> - <div class='line'>No, you all grope and blunder off the line.</div> - <div class='line'>Each simile’s at fault; I’ll tell you mine;—</div> - <div class='line'>You’re free to turn and wrest it as you please.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Rises as if to make a speech.</i></div> - <div class='line'>In the remotest east there grows a plant;</div> - <div class='line'>And the sun’s cousin’s garden is its haunt—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, it’s the tea-plant!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>His voice is so</div> - <div class='line'>Like Strawman’s when he—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Don’t disturb his flow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It has its home in fabled lands serene;</div> - <div class='line'>Thousands of miles of desert lie between;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_386'>386</span>Fill up, Lind!—So.—Now in a tea-oration,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll show of tea and Love the true relation.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>The guests cluster round him.</i></div> - <div class='line'>It has its home in the romantic land;</div> - <div class='line'>Alas, Love’s home is also in Romance,</div> - <div class='line'>Only the Sun’s descendants understand</div> - <div class='line'>The herb’s right cultivation and advance.</div> - <div class='line'>With Love it is not otherwise than so.</div> - <div class='line'>Blood of the Sun along the veins must flow</div> - <div class='line'>If Love indeed therein is to strike root,</div> - <div class='line'>And burgeon into blossom, into fruit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But China is an ancient land; you hold</div> - <div class='line'>In consequence that tea is very old—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Past question antecedent to Jerusalem.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, ’twas already famous when Methusalem</div> - <div class='line'>His picture-books and rattles tore and flung—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>triumphantly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And Love is in its very nature young!</div> - <div class='line'>To find a likeness there is pretty bold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No; Love, in truth, is also very old;</div> - <div class='line'>That principle we here no more dispute</div> - <div class='line'>Than do the folks of Rio or Beyrout.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_387'>387</span>Nay, there are those from Cayenne to Caithness,</div> - <div class='line'>Who stand upon its everlastingness;—</div> - <div class='line'>Well, that may be a slight exaggeration,</div> - <div class='line'>But old it is beyond all estimation.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Love is all alike; whereas we see</div> - <div class='line'>Both good and bad and middling kinds of tea!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, they sell tea of many qualities.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The green spring shoots I count the very first—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Those serve to quench celestial daughters’ thirst.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Young Lady.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Witching as ether fumes they say it is—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Balmy as lotus, sweet as almond, clear—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s not an article we deal in here.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>who has meanwhile come down from the verandah</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, ladies, every mortal has a small</div> - <div class='line'>Private celestial empire in his heart.</div> - <div class='line'>There bud such shoots in thousands, kept apart</div> - <div class='line'>By Shyness’s soon shatter’d Chinese Wall.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_388'>388</span>But in her dim fantastic temple bower</div> - <div class='line'>The little Chinese puppet sits and sighs,</div> - <div class='line'>A dream of far-off wonders in her eyes—</div> - <div class='line'>And in her hand a golden tulip flower.</div> - <div class='line'>For <em class='gesperrt'>her</em> the tender firstling tendrils grew;—</div> - <div class='line'>Rich crop or meagre, what is that to you?</div> - <div class='line'>Instead of it we get an after crop</div> - <div class='line'>They kick the tree for, dust and stalk and stem,—</div> - <div class='line'>As hemp to silk beside what goes to them—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That is the black tea.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>nodding</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>That’s what fills the shop.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Gentleman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There’s beef tea too, that Holberg says a word of—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>sharply</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To modern taste entirely out of date.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And a <em class='gesperrt'>beef love</em> has equally been heard of,</div> - <div class='line'>Wont—in romances—to brow-beat its mate,</div> - <div class='line'>And still they say its trace may be detected</div> - <div class='line'>Amongst the henpecked of the married state.</div> - <div class='line'>In short there’s likeness where ’twas least expected.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_389'>389</span>So, as you know, an ancient proverb tells,</div> - <div class='line'>That something ever passes from the tea</div> - <div class='line'>Of the bouquet that lodges in its cells,</div> - <div class='line'>If it be carried hither over sea.</div> - <div class='line'>It must across the desert and the hills,—</div> - <div class='line'>Pay toll to Cossack and to Russian tills;—</div> - <div class='line'>It gets their stamp and licence, that’s enough,</div> - <div class='line'>We buy it as the true and genuine stuff.</div> - <div class='line'>But has not Love the self-same path to fare?</div> - <div class='line'>Across Life’s desert? How the world would rave</div> - <div class='line'>And shriek if you or I should boldly bear</div> - <div class='line'>Our Love by way of Freedom’s ocean wave!</div> - <div class='line'>“Good heavens, his moral savour’s passed away,</div> - <div class='line'>“And quite dispersed Legality’s bouquet!”—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>rising</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, happily,—in every moral land</div> - <div class='line'>Such wares continue to be contraband!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, to pass current here, Love must have cross’d</div> - <div class='line'>The great Siberian waste of regulations,</div> - <div class='line'>Fann’d by no breath of ocean to its cost;</div> - <div class='line'>It must produce official attestations</div> - <div class='line'>From friends and kindred, devils of relations,</div> - <div class='line'>From church curators, organist and clerk,</div> - <div class='line'>And other fine folks—over and above</div> - <div class='line'>The primal licence which God gave to Love.—</div> - <div class='line'>And then the last great point of likeness;—mark</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_390'>390</span>How heavily the hand of culture weighs</div> - <div class='line'>Upon that far Celestial domain;</div> - <div class='line'>Its power is shatter’d, and its wall decays,</div> - <div class='line'>The last true Mandarin’s strangled; hands profane</div> - <div class='line'>Already are put forth to share the spoil;</div> - <div class='line'>Soon the Sun’s realm will be a legend vain,</div> - <div class='line'>An idle tale incredible to sense;</div> - <div class='line'>The world is gray in gray—we’ve flung the soil</div> - <div class='line'>On buried Faery,—we have made her mound.</div> - <div class='line'>But if we have,—then where can Love be found?</div> - <div class='line'>Alas, Love also is departed hence!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Lifts his cup.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Well let him go, since so the times decree;—</div> - <div class='line'>A health to Amor, late of Earth,—in tea!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>He drains his cup; indignant murmurs amongst the company.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A very odd expression! “Dead” indeed!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To say that Love is dead—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Why, here you see</div> - <div class='line'>Him sitting, rosy, round and sound, at tea,</div> - <div class='line'>In all conditions! Here in her sable weed</div> - <div class='line'>The widow—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Here a couple, true and tried,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With many ample pledges fortified.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_391'>391</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then Love’s light cavalry, of maid and man,</div> - <div class='line'>The plighted pairs in order—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>In the van</div> - <div class='line'>The veterans, whose troth has laughed to scorn</div> - <div class='line'>The tooth of Time—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>hastily interrupting</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>And then the babes new-born—</div> - <div class='line'>The little novices of yester-morn—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Spring, summer, autumn, winter, in a word,</div> - <div class='line'>Are here; the truth is patent, past all doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>It can be clutched and handled, seen and heard,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>And yet you want to thrust it out!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Madam, you quite mistake. In all I spoke</div> - <div class='line'>I cast no doubt on anything you claim;</div> - <div class='line'>But I would fain remind you that, from smoke,</div> - <div class='line'>We cannot logically argue flame.</div> - <div class='line'>That men are married, and have children, I</div> - <div class='line'>Have no desire whatever to deny;</div> - <div class='line'>Nor do I dream of doubting that such things</div> - <div class='line'>Are in the world as troth and wedding-rings;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_392'>392</span>That billets-doux some tender hands indite</div> - <div class='line'>And seal with pairs of turtle doves that—fight;</div> - <div class='line'>That sweethearts swarm in cottage and in hall,</div> - <div class='line'>That chocolate rewards the wedding-call;</div> - <div class='line'>That usage and convention have decreed,</div> - <div class='line'>In every point, how “Lovers” shall proceed:—</div> - <div class='line'>But, heavens! We’ve majors also by the score,</div> - <div class='line'>Arsenals heaped with muniments of war,</div> - <div class='line'>With spurs and howitzers and drums and shot,</div> - <div class='line'>But what does that permit us to infer?</div> - <div class='line'>That we have men who dangle swords, but not</div> - <div class='line'>That they will wield the weapons that they wear.</div> - <div class='line'>Tho’ all the plain with gleaming tents you crowd,</div> - <div class='line'>Does that make heroes of the men they shroud?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, all in moderation; I must own,</div> - <div class='line'>It is not quite conducive to the truth</div> - <div class='line'>That we should paint the enamourment of youth</div> - <div class='line'>So bright, as if—ahem—it stood alone.</div> - <div class='line'>Love-making still a frail foundation is.</div> - <div class='line'>Only the snuggery of wedded bliss</div> - <div class='line'>Provides a rock where Love may builded be</div> - <div class='line'>In unassailable security.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There I entirely differ. In my view,</div> - <div class='line'>A free accord of lovers, heart with heart,</div> - <div class='line'>Who hold together, having leave to part,</div> - <div class='line'>Gives the best warrant that their love is true.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_393'>393</span><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>warmly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O no—Love’s bond when it is fresh and young</div> - <div class='line'>Is of a stuff more precious and more strong.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>thoughtfully</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Possibly the ideal flower may blow,</div> - <div class='line'>Even as that snowdrop,—hidden by the snow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with a sudden outburst</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You fallen Adam! There a heart was cleft</div> - <div class='line'>With longing for the Eden it has left!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What stuff!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>offended, to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>rising</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>’Tis not a very friendly act</div> - <div class='line'>To stir a quarrel where we’ve made a peace.</div> - <div class='line'>As for your friend’s good fortune, be at ease—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Some Ladies.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay that’s assured—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>A very certain fact.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The cooking-class at school, I must confess,</div> - <div class='line'>She did not take; but she shall learn it still.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_394'>394</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With her own hands she’s trimming her own dress</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Aunt</span> [<i>patting</i> <span class='sc'>Anna’s</span> <i>hand</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And growing exquisitely sensible.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>laughing aloud</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O parody of sense, that rives and rends</div> - <div class='line'>In maniac dance upon the lips of friends!</div> - <div class='line'>Was it good sense he wanted? Or a she-</div> - <div class='line'>Professor of the lore of Cookery?</div> - <div class='line'>A joyous son of springtime he came here,</div> - <div class='line'>For the wild rosebud on the bush he burned.</div> - <div class='line'>You reared the rosebud for him; he returned—</div> - <div class='line'>And for his rose found what? The hip!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>offended</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>You jeer!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A useful household condiment, heaven knows!</div> - <div class='line'>But yet the hip was not his bridal rose.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, if it is a ball-room queen he wants,</div> - <div class='line'>I’m very sorry; these are not their haunts.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O yes, I know the pretty coquetry</div> - <div class='line'>They carry on with “Domesticity.”</div> - <div class='line'>It is a suckling of the mighty Lie</div> - <div class='line'>That, like hop-tendrils, spreads itself on high.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_395'>395</span>, madam, reverently bare my head</div> - <div class='line'>To the ball queen; a child of beauty she—</div> - <div class='line'>And the ideal’s golden woof is spread</div> - <div class='line'>In ball-rooms, hardly in the nursery.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>with suppressed bitterness</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your conduct, sir, is easily explained;</div> - <div class='line'>A plighted lover cannot be a friend;</div> - <div class='line'>That is the kernel of the whole affair;</div> - <div class='line'>I have a very large experience there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No doubt,—with seven nieces, each a wife—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And each a happy wife—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with emphasis</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Ah, do we know?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>Mr. Falk!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Are you resolved to sow</div> - <div class='line'>Dissension?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>vehemently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Yes, war, discord, turmoil, strife!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_396'>396</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What you, a lay, profane outsider here!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No matter, still the battle-flag I’ll rear!</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, it is war I mean with nail and tooth</div> - <div class='line'>Against the Lie with the tenacious root,</div> - <div class='line'>The lie that you have fostered into fruit,</div> - <div class='line'>For all its strutting in the guise of truth!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Against these groundless charges I protest,</div> - <div class='line'>Reserving right of action—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Do be still!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So then it is Love’s ever-running rill</div> - <div class='line'>That tells the widow what she once possess’d,—</div> - <div class='line'>That very Love that, in the days gone by,</div> - <div class='line'>Out of her language blotted “moan” and “sigh”!</div> - <div class='line'>So then it is Love’s brimming tide that rolls</div> - <div class='line'>Along the placid veins of wedded souls,—</div> - <div class='line'>That very Love that faced the iron sleet,</div> - <div class='line'>Trampling inane Convention under feet,</div> - <div class='line'>And scoffing at the impotent discreet!</div> - <div class='line'>So then it is Love’s beauty-kindled flame</div> - <div class='line'>That keeps the plighted from the taint of time</div> - <div class='line'>Year after year! Ah yes, the very same</div> - <div class='line'>That made our young bureaucrat blaze in rhyme!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_397'>397</span>So it is Love’s young bliss that will not brave</div> - <div class='line'>The voyage over vaulted Ocean’s wave,</div> - <div class='line'>But asks a sacrifice when, like the sun,</div> - <div class='line'>Its face should fill with glory, <em class='gesperrt'>making</em> one!</div> - <div class='line'>Ah no, you vulgar prophets of the Lie,</div> - <div class='line'>Give things the names we ought to know them by;</div> - <div class='line'>Call widows’ passion—wanting what they miss,</div> - <div class='line'>And wedlock’s <em class='gesperrt'>habit</em>—call it what it is!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Young man, this insolence has gone too far!</div> - <div class='line'>In every word there’s scoffing and defiance.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes close up to Falk.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Now I’ll gird up my aged loins to war</div> - <div class='line'>For hallowed custom against modern science!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I go to battle as it were a feast!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good! For your bullets I will be a beacon!—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Nearer.</i></div> - <div class='line'>A wedded pair is holy, like a priest—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>at</i> <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> <i>other side</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And a betrothed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Half-holy, like the deacon.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_398'>398</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Behold these children;—see,—this little throng!</div> - <div class='line'><span lang="la" xml:lang="la"><i>Io triumphe</i></span> may for them be sung!</div> - <div class='line'>How was it possible—how practicable—;</div> - <div class='line'>The words of truth are strong, inexorable;—</div> - <div class='line'>He has no hearing whom they cannot move.</div> - <div class='line'>See,—every one of them’s a child of Love—!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Stops in confusion.</i></div> - <div class='line'>That is—you understand—I would have said—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>fanning herself with her handkerchief</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This is a very mystical oration!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There you yourself provide the demonstration,—</div> - <div class='line'>A good old Norse one, sound, true-born, homebred.</div> - <div class='line'>You draw distinction between wedded pledges</div> - <div class='line'>And those of Love: your Logic’s without flaw.</div> - <div class='line'>They are distinguished just as roast from raw,</div> - <div class='line'>As hothouse bloom from wilding of the hedges!</div> - <div class='line'>Love is with us a science and an art;</div> - <div class='line'>It long since ceased to animate the heart.</div> - <div class='line'>Love is with us a trade, a special line</div> - <div class='line'>Of business, with its union, code and sign;</div> - <div class='line'>It is a guild of married folks and plighted,</div> - <div class='line'>Past-masters with apprentices united;</div> - <div class='line'>For they cohere compact as jelly-fishes,</div> - <div class='line'>A singing-club their single want and wish is—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_399'>399</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And a gazette!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>A good suggestion, yes!</div> - <div class='line'>We too must have our organ in the press,</div> - <div class='line'>Like ladies, athletes, boys, and devotees.</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t ask the price at present, if you please.</div> - <div class='line'>There I’ll parade each amatory fetter</div> - <div class='line'>That John and Thomas to our town unites,</div> - <div class='line'>There publish every pink and perfumed letter</div> - <div class='line'>That William to his tender Jane indites;</div> - <div class='line'>There you shall read, among “Distressing Scenes”—</div> - <div class='line'>Instead of murders and burnt crinolines,</div> - <div class='line'>The broken matches that the week’s afforded;</div> - <div class='line'>There under “goods for sale” you’ll find what firms</div> - <div class='line'>Will furnish cast-off rings on easy terms;</div> - <div class='line'>There double, treble births will be recorded;</div> - <div class='line'>No wedding, but our rallying rub-a-dub</div> - <div class='line'>Shall drum to the performance all the club;</div> - <div class='line'>No suit rejected, but we’ll set it down,</div> - <div class='line'>In letters large, with other news of weight</div> - <div class='line'>Thus: “Amor-Moloch, we regret to state,</div> - <div class='line'>Has claimed another victim in our town.”</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll see, we’ll catch subscribers: once in sight</div> - <div class='line'>Of the propitious season when they bite,</div> - <div class='line'>By way of throwing them the bait they’ll brook</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll stick a nice young man upon my hook.</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, you will see me battle for our cause,</div> - <div class='line'>With tiger’s, nay with editorial, claws</div> - <div class='line'>Rending them—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_400'>400</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>And the paper’s name will be—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Amor’s Norse Chronicle of Archery.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>going nearer</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’re not in earnest, you will never stake</div> - <div class='line'>Your name and fame for such a fancy’s sake!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m in grim earnest. We are often told</div> - <div class='line'>Men cannot live on love; I’ll show that this</div> - <div class='line'>Is an untenable hypothesis;</div> - <div class='line'>For Love will prove to be a mine of gold:</div> - <div class='line'>Particularly if Miss Jay, perhaps,</div> - <div class='line'>Will Mr. Strawman’s “Life’s Romance” unfold,</div> - <div class='line'>As appetising feuilleton, in scraps.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>in terror</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Merciful heaven! My “life’s romance!” What, what!</div> - <div class='line'>When was my life romantic, if you please?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I never said so.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Witness disagrees.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_401'>401</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That I have ever swerved a single jot</div> - <div class='line'>From social prescript,—is a monstrous lie.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Clapping</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span> <i>on the shoulder</i>.</div> - <div class='line in7'>Here’s a friend who will not put me by.</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll start with Stiver’s lyric ecstasies.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>after a glance of horror at</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Are you quite mad! Nay then I must be heard!</div> - <div class='line'>You dare accuse me for a poet—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>How—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your office has averred it anyhow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>in towering anger</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sir, by our office nothing is averred.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, leave me then, you also: I have by me</div> - <div class='line'>One comrade yet whose loyalty will last.</div> - <div class='line'>“A true heart’s story” Lind will not deny me,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose troth’s too tender for the ocean blast,</div> - <div class='line'>Who for his mistress makes surrender of</div> - <div class='line'>His fellow-men—pure quintessence of Love!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_402'>402</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My patience, Mr. Falk, is now worn out.</div> - <div class='line'>The same abode no longer can receive us:—</div> - <div class='line'>I beg of you this very day to leave us—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with a bow as</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and the company withdraw</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That this would come I never had a doubt!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Between us two there’s battle to the death;</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve slandered me, my wife, nay little flock,</div> - <div class='line'>From Molly down to Millie, in one breath.</div> - <div class='line'>Crow on, crow on—Emancipation’s cock,—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes in, followed by his wife and children.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And go you on observing Peter’s faith</div> - <div class='line'>To Love your lord—who, thanks to your advice,</div> - <div class='line'>Was thrice denied before the cock crew thrice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>turning faint</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Attend me, Stiver! help me get unlaced</div> - <div class='line'>My corset—this way, this way—do make haste!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>as he withdraws with</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>on his arm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I here renounce your friendship.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>I likewise.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_403'>403</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>seriously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You too, my Lind?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Farewell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>You were my nearest one—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No help, it is the pleasure of my dearest one.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>He goes in:</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>has remained -standing on the verandah steps.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So, now I’ve made a clearance, have free course</div> - <div class='line'>In all directions!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Falk, one word with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>pointing politely to the house</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That way, Miss Halm;—that way, with all the force</div> - <div class='line'>Of aunts and inmates, Mrs. Halm withdrew.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>nearer to him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Let them withdraw; their ways and mine divide;</div> - <div class='line'>I will not swell the number of their band.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’ll stay?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_404'>404</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>If you make war on lies, I stand</div> - <div class='line'>A trusty armour-bearer by your side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Svanhild, you who—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Were you yourself, Falk, yesterday the same?</div> - <div class='line'>You bade me be a sallow, for your play.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And a sweet sallow sang me into shame.</div> - <div class='line'>No, you are right: I was a child to ask;</div> - <div class='line'>But you have fired me to a nobler task.</div> - <div class='line'>Eight in the midst of men the Church is founded</div> - <div class='line'>Where Truth’s appealing clarion must be sounded</div> - <div class='line'>We are not called, like demigods, to gaze on</div> - <div class='line'>The battle from the far-off mountain’s crest,</div> - <div class='line'>But in our hearts to bear our fiery blazon,</div> - <div class='line'>An Olaf’s cross upon a mailed breast,—</div> - <div class='line'>To look afar across the fields of flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Tho’ pent within the mazes of its might,—</div> - <div class='line'>Beyond the mirk descry one glimmer still</div> - <div class='line'>Of glory—that’s the Call we must fulfil.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you’ll fulfil it when you break from men,</div> - <div class='line'>Stand free, alone,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_405'>405</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Did I frequent them <em class='gesperrt'>then</em>?</div> - <div class='line'>And there lies duty. No, that time’s gone by,—</div> - <div class='line'>My solitary compact with the sky.</div> - <div class='line'>My four-wall-chamber poetry is done;</div> - <div class='line'>My verse shall live in forest and in field,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll fight under the splendour of the sun;—</div> - <div class='line'>I or the Lie—one of us two must yield!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then forth with God from Verse to Derringdoe!</div> - <div class='line'>I did you wrong: you have a feeling heart;</div> - <div class='line'>Forgive me,—and as good friends let us part—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, in my future there is room for two!</div> - <div class='line'>We part not. Svanhild, if you dare decide,</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll battle on together side by side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>We</em> battle?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>See, I have no friend, no mate,</div> - <div class='line'>By all abandoned, I make war on all:</div> - <div class='line'>At me they aim the piercing shafts of hate;</div> - <div class='line'>Say, do you dare with me to stand or fall?</div> - <div class='line'>Henceforth along the beaten walks I’ll move</div> - <div class='line'>Heedful of each constraining etiquette;</div> - <div class='line'>Spread, like the rest of men, my board, and set</div> - <div class='line'>The ring upon the finger of my love!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Takes a ring from his finger and holds it up.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_406'>406</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [in breathless suspense].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean <em class='gesperrt'>that</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Yes, by us the world shall see,</div> - <div class='line'>Love has an everlasting energy,</div> - <div class='line'>That suffers not its splendour to take hurt</div> - <div class='line'>From the day’s dust, the common highway’s dirt.</div> - <div class='line'>Last night I showed you the ideal aflame,</div> - <div class='line'>Beaconing from a dizzy mountain’s brow.</div> - <div class='line'>You shuddered, for you were a woman,—now</div> - <div class='line'>I show you woman’s veritable aim;—</div> - <div class='line'>A soul like yours, what it has vowed, will keep.</div> - <div class='line'>You see the abyss before you,—Svanhild, leap!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>almost inaudibly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If we should fail—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>exulting</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>No, in your eyes I see</div> - <div class='line'>A gleam that surely prophesies our winning!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then take me as I am, take all of me!</div> - <div class='line'>Now buds the young leaf; now my spring’s beginning!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She flings herself boldly into his arms as -the curtain falls.</i></p> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_407'>407</span> - <h3 class='c030'>ACT THIRD.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c025'><i>Evening. Bright moonlight. Coloured lanterns -are hung about the trees. In the background -are covered tables with bottles, -glasses, biscuits, etc. From the house, -which is lighted up from top to bottom, -subdued music and singing are heard during -the following scene.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>stands -on the verandah.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>comes from the -right with some books and a portfolio -under his arm. The</i> <span class='sc'>Porter</span> <i>follows with -a portmanteau and a knapsack.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c034'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s all, then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Yes, sir, all is in the pack,</div> - <div class='line'>But just a satchel, and the paletot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good; when I go, I’ll take them on my back.</div> - <div class='line'>Now off. See, this is the portfolio.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s locked, I see.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Locked, Peter.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_408'>408</span><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>Good, sir.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in49'>Pray,</div> - <div class='line'>Make haste and burn it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Burn it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>Yes, to ash—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Smiling.</i></div> - <div class='line'>With every draft upon poetic cash;</div> - <div class='line'>As for the books, you’re welcome to them.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in43'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>Such payment is above a poor man’s earning.</div> - <div class='line'>But, sir, I’m thinking, if you can bestow</div> - <div class='line'>Your books, you must have done with all your learning?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whatever can be learnt from books I know,</div> - <div class='line'>And rather more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Porter.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>More? Nay, that’s hard, I doubt!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, now be off; the carriers wait without.</div> - <div class='line'>Just help them load the barrow ere you go.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Porter</span> <i>goes out to the left.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_409'>409</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [approaching <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> who comes to meet him].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One moment’s ours, my Svanhild, in the light</div> - <div class='line'>Of God and of the lustrous summer night.</div> - <div class='line'>How the stars glitter thro’ the leafage, see,</div> - <div class='line'>Like bright fruit hanging on the great world-tree.</div> - <div class='line'>Now slavery’s last manacle I slip,</div> - <div class='line'>Now for the last time feel the wealing whip;</div> - <div class='line'>Like Israel at the Passover I stand,</div> - <div class='line'>Loins girded for the desert, staff in hand.</div> - <div class='line'>Dull generation, from whose sight is hid</div> - <div class='line'>The Promised Land beyond that desert flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Thrall tricked with knighthood, never the more knight,</div> - <div class='line'>Tomb thyself kinglike in the Pyramid,—</div> - <div class='line'>I cross the barren desert to be free.</div> - <div class='line'>My ship strides on despite an ebbing sea;</div> - <div class='line'>But there the Legion Lie shall find its doom,</div> - <div class='line'>And glut one deep, dark, hollow-vaulted tomb.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>A short pause; he looks at her and takes her hand.</i></div> - <div class='line'>You are so still!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>So happy! Suffer me,</div> - <div class='line'>O suffer me in silence still to dream.</div> - <div class='line'>Speak you for me; my budding thoughts, grown strong,</div> - <div class='line'>One after one will burgeon into song,</div> - <div class='line'>Like lilies in the bosom of the stream.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_410'>410</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O say it once again, in truth’s pure tone</div> - <div class='line'>Beyond the fear of doubt, that thou art mine!</div> - <div class='line'>O say it, Svanhild, say—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>throwing herself on his neck</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Yes, I am thine!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou singing-bird God sent me for my own!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Homeless within my mother’s house I dwelt,</div> - <div class='line'>Lonely in all I thought, in all I felt,</div> - <div class='line'>A guest unbidden at the feast of mirth,—</div> - <div class='line'>Accounted nothing—less than nothing—worth.</div> - <div class='line'>Then you appeared! For the first time I heard</div> - <div class='line'>My own thought uttered in another’s word;</div> - <div class='line'>To my lame visions you gave wings and feet—</div> - <div class='line'>You young unmasker of the Obsolete!</div> - <div class='line'>Half with your caustic keenness you alarmed me,</div> - <div class='line'>Half with your radiant eloquence you charmed me,</div> - <div class='line'>As sea-girt forests summon with their spell</div> - <div class='line'>The sea their flinty beaches still repel.</div> - <div class='line'>Now I have read the bottom of your soul,</div> - <div class='line'>Now you have won me, undivided, whole;</div> - <div class='line'>Dear forest, where my tossing billows beat,</div> - <div class='line'>My tide’s at flood and never will retreat!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_411'>411</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And I thank God that in the bath of Pain</div> - <div class='line'>He purged my love. What strong compulsion drew</div> - <div class='line'>Me on I knew not, till I saw in you</div> - <div class='line'>The treasure I had blindly sought in vain.</div> - <div class='line'>I praise Him, who our love has lifted thus</div> - <div class='line'>To noble rank by sorrow,—licensed us</div> - <div class='line'>To a triumphal progress, bade us sweep</div> - <div class='line'>Thro’ fen and forest to our castle-keep,</div> - <div class='line'>A noble pair, astride on Pegasus!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>pointing to the house</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The whole house, see, is making feast to-night.</div> - <div class='line'>There, in their honour, every room’s alight,</div> - <div class='line'>There cheerful talk and joyous song ring out;</div> - <div class='line'>On the highroad no passer-by will doubt</div> - <div class='line'>That men are happy where they are so gay.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With compassion.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Poor sister!—happy in the great world’s way!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Poor” sister, say you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Has she not divided</div> - <div class='line'>With kith and kin the treasure of her soul,</div> - <div class='line'>Her capital to fifty hands confided,</div> - <div class='line'>So that not one is debtor for the whole?</div> - <div class='line'>From no one has she <em class='gesperrt'>all</em> things to receive,</div> - <div class='line'>For no one has she utterly to live.</div> - <div class='line'>O beside my wealth hers is little worth;</div> - <div class='line'>I have but one possession upon earth.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_412'>412</span>My heart was lordless when with trumpet blare</div> - <div class='line'>And multitudinous song you came, its king,</div> - <div class='line'>The banners of my thought your ensign bear,</div> - <div class='line'>You fill my soul with glory, like the spring.</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, I must needs thank God, when it is past,</div> - <div class='line'>That I was lonely till I found out thee,—</div> - <div class='line'>That I lay dead until the trumpet blast</div> - <div class='line'>Waken’d me from the world’s frivolity.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes we, who have no friends on earth, we twain</div> - <div class='line'>Own the true wealth, the golden fortune,—we</div> - <div class='line'>Who stand without, beside the starlit sea,</div> - <div class='line'>And watch the indoor revel thro’ the pane.</div> - <div class='line'>Let the lamp glitter and the song resound,</div> - <div class='line'>Let the dance madly eddy round and round;—</div> - <div class='line'>Look up, my Svanhild, into yon deep blue,—</div> - <div class='line'>There glitter little lamps in thousands, too—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And hark, beloved, thro’ the limes there floats</div> - <div class='line'>This balmy eve a chorus of sweet notes—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is for us that fretted vault’s aglow—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is for us the vale is loud below!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I feel myself like God’s lost prodigal;</div> - <div class='line'>I left Him for the world’s delusive charms.</div> - <div class='line'>With mild reproof He wooed me to His arms;</div> - <div class='line'>And when I come, He lights the vaulted hall,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_413'>413</span>Prepares a banquet for the son restored,</div> - <div class='line'>And makes His noblest creature my reward.</div> - <div class='line'>From this time forth I’ll never leave that Light,—</div> - <div class='line'>But stand its armed defender in the fight;</div> - <div class='line'>Nothing shall part us, and our life shall prove</div> - <div class='line'>A song of glory to triumphant love!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And see how easy triumph is for two,</div> - <div class='line'>When he’s a man—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>She, woman thro’ and thro’;—</div> - <div class='line'>It is impossible for such to fall!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then up, and to the war with want and sorrow;</div> - <div class='line'>This very hour I will declare it all!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> <i>ring on her finger.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>hastily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, Svanhild, not to-night, wait till to-morrow!</div> - <div class='line'>To-night we gather our young love’s red rose;</div> - <div class='line'>’Twere sacrilege to smirch it with the prose</div> - <div class='line'>Of common day.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>The door into the garden-room opens.</i></div> - <div class='line in16'>Your mother’s coming! Hide!</div> - <div class='line'>No eye this night shall see thee as my bride!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They go out among the trees by the summer-house.</i> -<span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> -<i>come out on the balcony.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_414'>414</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s really going?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Seems so, I admit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>coming</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s going, madam!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>We’re aware of it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A most unfortunate punctilio.</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll keep his word; his stubbornness I know.</div> - <div class='line'>In the Gazette he’ll put us all by name;</div> - <div class='line'>My love will figure under leaded headings,</div> - <div class='line'>With jilts, and twins, and countermanded weddings.</div> - <div class='line'>Listen; I tell you, if it weren’t for shame,</div> - <div class='line'>I would propose an armistice, a truce—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You think he would be willing?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>I deduce</div> - <div class='line'>The fact from certain signs, which indicate</div> - <div class='line'>That his tall talk about his Amor’s News</div> - <div class='line'>Was uttered in a far from sober state.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_415'>415</span>One proof especially, if not transcendent,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet tells most heavily against defendant:</div> - <div class='line'>It has been clearly proved that after dinner</div> - <div class='line'>To his and Lind’s joint chamber he withdrew,</div> - <div class='line'>And there displayed such singular demeanour</div> - <div class='line'>As leaves no question—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Sees a glimpse of</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>, -<i>who separate</i>, <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>going to the background</i>; -<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>remains standing -hidden by the summer-house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Hold, we have the clue!</div> - <div class='line'>Madam, one word!—Falk does not mean to go,</div> - <div class='line'>Or if he does, he means it as a friend.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How, you believe then—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>What do you intend?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With the least possible delay I’ll show</div> - <div class='line'>That matters move precisely as you would.</div> - <div class='line'>Merely a word in private—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Very good.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They go together into the garden and are -seen from time to time in lively conversation.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_416'>416</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Descending into the garden discovers</i> -<span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>who is standing by the water and -gazing over it.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>These poets are mere men of vengeance, we</div> - <div class='line'>State servants understand diplomacy.</div> - <div class='line'>I need to labour for myself—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Seeing</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>, <i>who enters from the garden-room.</i></div> - <div class='line in28'>Well met!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>on the verandah</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s really leaving!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Going down to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - <div class='line in20'>Ah, my dear sir, let</div> - <div class='line'>Me beg you just a moment to go in</div> - <div class='line'>And hold my wife—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I—hold her, sir?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>I mean</div> - <div class='line'>In talk. The little ones and we are so</div> - <div class='line'>Unused to be divided, there is no</div> - <div class='line'>Escaping—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>His wife and children appear in the door.</i></div> - <div class='line in9'>Ha! already on my trail.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where are you, Strawman?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_417'>417</span><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>aside to</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Do invent some tale,</div> - <div class='line'>Something amusing—something to beguile!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>going on to the verandah</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pray, madam, have you read the official charge?</div> - <div class='line'>A masterpiece of literary style.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Takes a book from his pocket.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Which I shall now proceed to cite at large.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Ushers her politely into the room, and follows -himself.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>comes forward; he -and</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span> <i>meet; they regard one -another a moment in silence.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Falk!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Pastor!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Are you less</div> - <div class='line'>Intractable than when we parted?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>I go my own inexorable way—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_418'>418</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Even tho’ you crush another’s happiness?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I plant the flower of knowledge in its place.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Smiling.</i></div> - <div class='line'>If, by the way, you have not ceased to think</div> - <div class='line'>Of the Gazette—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Ah, that was all a joke?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, pluck up courage, that will turn to smoke;</div> - <div class='line'>I break the ice in action, not in ink.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But even though you spare me, sure enough</div> - <div class='line'>There’s one who won’t so lightly let me off;</div> - <div class='line'>He has the advantage, and he won’t forego it,</div> - <div class='line'>That lawyer’s clerk—and ’tis to you I owe it;</div> - <div class='line'>You raked the ashes of our faded flames,</div> - <div class='line'>And you may take your oath he won’t be still</div> - <div class='line'>If once I mutter but a syllable</div> - <div class='line'>Against the brazen bluster of his claims.</div> - <div class='line'>These civil-service gentlemen, they say,</div> - <div class='line'>Are very potent in the press to-day.</div> - <div class='line'>A trumpery paragraph can lay me low,</div> - <div class='line'>Once printed in that Samson-like Gazette</div> - <div class='line'>That with the jaw of asses fells its foe,</div> - <div class='line'>And runs away with tackle and with net,</div> - <div class='line'>Especially towards the quarter day—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_419'>419</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>acquiescing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, were there scandal in the case, indeed—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>despondently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No matter. Read its columns with good heed,</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll see me offered up to Vengeance.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>whimsically</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in40'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>To retribution—well-earned punishment.</div> - <div class='line'>Thro’ all our life there runs a Nemesis,</div> - <div class='line'>Which may delay, but never will relent,</div> - <div class='line'>And grants to none exception or release.</div> - <div class='line'>Who wrongs the Ideal? Straight there rushes in</div> - <div class='line'>The Press, its guardian with the Argus eye,</div> - <div class='line'>And the offender suffers for his sin.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But in the name of heaven, what pledge have I</div> - <div class='line'>Given this “Ideal” that’s ever on your tongue?</div> - <div class='line'>I’m married, have a family, twelve young</div> - <div class='line'>And helpless innocents to clothe and keep;</div> - <div class='line'>I have my daily calls on every side,</div> - <div class='line'>Churches remote and glebe and pasture wide,</div> - <div class='line'>Great herds of breeding cattle, ghostly sheep—</div> - <div class='line'>All to be watched and cared for, clipt and fed,</div> - <div class='line'>Grain to be winnowed, compost to be spread;—</div> - <div class='line'>Wanted all day in shippon and in stall,</div> - <div class='line'>What time have <i>I</i> to serve the “Ideal” withal?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_420'>420</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then get you home with what dispatch you may,</div> - <div class='line'>Creep snugly in before the winter-cold;</div> - <div class='line'>Look, in young Norway dawns at last the day,</div> - <div class='line'>Thousand brave hearts are in its ranks enroll’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Its banners in the morning breezes play!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And if, young man, I were to take my way</div> - <div class='line'>With bag and baggage home, with everything</div> - <div class='line'>That made me yesterday a little king,</div> - <div class='line'>Were mine the only <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>volte face</i></span> to-day?</div> - <div class='line'>Think you I carry back the wealth I brought?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>As <span class='sc'>Falk</span> is about to answer.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Nay, listen, let me first explain my thought.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Coming nearer.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Time was when I was young, like you, and played</div> - <div class='line'>Like you, the unconquerable Titan’s part;</div> - <div class='line'>Year after year I toiled and moiled for bread,</div> - <div class='line'>Which hardens a man’s hand, but not his heart.</div> - <div class='line'>For northern fells my lonely home surrounded,</div> - <div class='line'>And by my parish bounds my world was bounded.</div> - <div class='line'>My home—Ah, Falk, I wonder, do you know</div> - <div class='line'>What home is?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>curtly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>I have never known.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_421'>421</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in36'>Just so.</div> - <div class='line'>That is a home, where five may dwell with ease,</div> - <div class='line'>Tho’ two would be a crowd, if enemies.</div> - <div class='line'>That is a home, where all your thoughts play free</div> - <div class='line'>As boys and girls about their father’s knee,</div> - <div class='line'>Where speech no sooner touches heart, than tongue</div> - <div class='line'>Darts back an answering harmony of song;</div> - <div class='line'>Where you may grow from flax-haired snowy-polled,</div> - <div class='line'>And not a soul take note that you grow old;</div> - <div class='line'>Where memories grow fairer as they fade,</div> - <div class='line'>Like far blue peaks beyond the forest glade.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with constrained sarcasm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come, you grow warm—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Where you but jeered and flouted.</div> - <div class='line'>So utterly unlike God made us two!</div> - <div class='line'>I’m bare of that he lavished upon you.</div> - <div class='line'>But I have won the game where you were routed.</div> - <div class='line'>Seen from the clouds, full many a wayside grain</div> - <div class='line'>Of truth seems empty chaff and husks. You’d soar</div> - <div class='line'>To heaven, I scarcely reach the stable door,</div> - <div class='line'>One bird’s an eagle born—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>And one a hen.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_422'>422</span><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, laugh away, and say it be so, grant</div> - <div class='line'>I am a hen. There clusters to my cluck</div> - <div class='line'>A crowd of little chickens,—which you want!</div> - <div class='line'>And I’ve the hen’s high spirit and her pluck,</div> - <div class='line'>And for my little ones forget myself.</div> - <div class='line'>You think me dull, I know it. Possibly</div> - <div class='line'>You pass a harsher judgment yet, decree</div> - <div class='line'>Me over covetous of worldly pelf.</div> - <div class='line'>Good, on that head we will not disagree.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Seizes <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> arm and continues in a low -tone but with gathering vehemence.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’re right, I’m dull and dense and grasping, yes;</div> - <div class='line'>But grasping for my God-given babes and wife,</div> - <div class='line'>And dense from struggling blindly for bare life,</div> - <div class='line'>And dull from sailing seas of loneliness.</div> - <div class='line'>Just when the pinnace of my youthful dream</div> - <div class='line'>Into the everlasting deep went down,</div> - <div class='line'>Another started from the ocean stream</div> - <div class='line'>Borne with a fair wind onward to life’s crown.</div> - <div class='line'>For every dream that vanished in the wave,</div> - <div class='line'>For every buoyant plume that broke asunder,</div> - <div class='line'>God sent me in return a little Wonder,</div> - <div class='line'>And gratefully I took the good He gave.</div> - <div class='line'>For them I strove, for them amassed, annexed,—</div> - <div class='line'>For them, for them, explained the Holy text;</div> - <div class='line'>My clustering girls, my garden of delight!</div> - <div class='line'>On them you’ve poured the venom of your spite!</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve proved, with all the cunning of the schools,</div> - <div class='line'>My bliss was but the paradise of fools,</div> - <div class='line'>That all I took for earnest was a jest;—</div> - <div class='line'>Now I implore, give me my quiet breast</div> - <div class='line'>Again, the flawless peace of mind I had—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_423'>423</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Prove, in a word, your title to be glad?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, in my path you’ve cast the stone of doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>And nobody but you can cast it out.</div> - <div class='line'>Between my kin and me you’ve set a bar,—</div> - <div class='line'>Remove the bar, the strangling noose undo—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You possibly believe I keep the glue</div> - <div class='line'>Of lies for Happiness’s broken jar?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I do believe, the faith your reasons tore</div> - <div class='line'>To shreds, your reasons may again restore;</div> - <div class='line'>The limb that you have shatter’d, you can set;</div> - <div class='line'>Reverse your judgment,—the whole truth unfold,</div> - <div class='line'>Restate the case—I’ll fly my banner yet—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>haughtily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I stamp no copper Happiness as gold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>looking fixedly at him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Remember then that, lately, one whose scent</div> - <div class='line'>For truth is of the keenest told us this:</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>With uplifted finger.</i></div> - <div class='line'>“There runs through all our life a Nemesis,</div> - <div class='line'>Which may delay, but never will relent.”</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>He goes towards the house.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_424'>424</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Coming out with glasses on, and an open -book in his hand.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pastor, you must come flying like the blast!</div> - <div class='line'>Your girls are sobbing—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Children</span> [<i>in the doorway</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Pa!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>And Madam waiting!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> goes in.</i></div> - <div class='line'>This lady has no talent for debating.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Puts the book and glasses in his pocket, -and approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Falk!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Yes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>I hope you’ve changed your mind at last?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>For obvious reasons. To betray</div> - <div class='line'>Communications made in confidence,</div> - <div class='line'>Is conduct utterly without defence.</div> - <div class='line'>They must not pass the lips.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_425'>425</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>No, I’ve heard say</div> - <div class='line'>It is at times a risky game to play.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The very devil!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Only for the great.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>zealously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, no, for all us servants of the state.</div> - <div class='line'>Only imagine how my future chances</div> - <div class='line'>Would dwindle, if the governor once knew</div> - <div class='line'>I keep a Pegasus that neighs and prances</div> - <div class='line'>In office hours—and such an office, too!</div> - <div class='line'>From first to last, you know, in our profession,</div> - <div class='line'>The winged horse is viewed with reprobation:</div> - <div class='line'>But worst of all would be, if it got wind</div> - <div class='line'>That I against our primal law had sinn’d</div> - <div class='line'>By bringing secret matters to the light—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s penal, is it—such an oversight?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>mysteriously</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It can a servant of the state compel</div> - <div class='line'>To beg for his dismissal out of hand.</div> - <div class='line'>On us officials lies a strict command,</div> - <div class='line'>Even by the hearth to be inscrutable.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O those despotical authorities,</div> - <div class='line'>Muzzling the—clerk that treadeth out the grain!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_426'>426</span><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>shrugging his shoulders</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is the law; to murmur is in vain.</div> - <div class='line'>Moreover, at a moment such as this,</div> - <div class='line'>When salary revision is in train,</div> - <div class='line'>It is not well to advertise one’s views</div> - <div class='line'>Of office time’s true function and right use.</div> - <div class='line'>That’s why I beg you to be silent; look,</div> - <div class='line'>A word may forfeit my—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Portfolio?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Officially it’s called a transcript book;</div> - <div class='line'>A protocol’s the clasp upon the veil of snow</div> - <div class='line'>That shrouds the modest breast of the Bureau.</div> - <div class='line'>What lies beneath you must not seek to know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet I only spoke at your desire;</div> - <div class='line'>You hinted at your literary crop.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How should I guess he’d grovel in the mire</div> - <div class='line'>So deep, this parson perch’d on fortune’s top,</div> - <div class='line'>A man with snug appointments, children, wife,</div> - <div class='line'>And money to defy the ills of life?</div> - <div class='line'>If such a man prove such a Philistine,</div> - <div class='line'>What shall of us poor copyists be said?</div> - <div class='line'>Of me, who drive the quill and rule the line,</div> - <div class='line'>A man engaged and shortly to be wed,</div> - <div class='line'>With family in prospect—and so forth?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>More vehemently.</i></div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_427'>427</span>O, if I only had a well-lined berth,</div> - <div class='line'>I’d bind the armour’d helmet on my head,</div> - <div class='line'>And cry defiance to united earth!</div> - <div class='line'>And were I only unengaged like you,</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, I’d break a road athwart the snow</div> - <div class='line'>Of Prose, and carry the Ideal through!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To work then, man!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>How?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>You may still do so!</div> - <div class='line'>Let the world’s prudish owl unheeded flutter by;</div> - <div class='line'>Freedom converts the grub into a butterfly!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>stepping back</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean, to break the engagement—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>That’s my mind;—</div> - <div class='line'>The fruit is gone, why keep the empty rind?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Such a proposal’s for a green young shoot,</div> - <div class='line'>Not for a man of judgment and repute.</div> - <div class='line'>I heed not what King Christian in his time</div> - <div class='line'>(The Fifth) laid down about engagements broken-off;</div> - <div class='line'>For that relationship is nowhere spoken of</div> - <div class='line'>In any rubric of the code of crime.</div> - <div class='line'>The act would not be criminal in name,</div> - <div class='line'>It would in no way violate the laws—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_428'>428</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why there, you see then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>firmly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Yes, but all the same,—</div> - <div class='line'>I must reject all pleas in such a cause.</div> - <div class='line'>Staunch comrades we have been in times of dearth;</div> - <div class='line'>Of life’s disport she asks but little share,</div> - <div class='line'>And I’m a homely fellow, long aware</div> - <div class='line'>God made me for the ledger and the hearth.</div> - <div class='line'>Let others emulate the eagle’s flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Life in the lowly plains may be as bright.</div> - <div class='line'>What does his Excellency Goethe say</div> - <div class='line'>About the white and shining milky way?</div> - <div class='line'>Man may not there the milk of fortune skim,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor is the butter of it meant for him.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, even were fortune-churning our life’s goal,</div> - <div class='line'>The labour must be guided by the soul;—</div> - <div class='line'>Be citizens of the time that is—but then</div> - <div class='line'>Make the time worthy of the citizen.</div> - <div class='line'>In homely things lurks beauty, without doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>But watchful eye and brain must draw it out.</div> - <div class='line'>Not every man who loves the soil he turns</div> - <div class='line'>May therefore claim to be another Burns.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then let us each our proper path pursue,</div> - <div class='line'>And part in peace; we shall not hamper you;</div> - <div class='line'>We keep the road, you hover in the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>There where we too once floated, she and I.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_429'>429</span>But work, not song, provides our daily bread,</div> - <div class='line'>And when a man’s alive, his music’s dead.</div> - <div class='line'>A young man’s life’s a lawsuit, and the most</div> - <div class='line'>Superfluous litigation in existence:</div> - <div class='line'>Withdraw, make terms, abandon all resistance:</div> - <div class='line'>Plead where and how you will, your suit is lost.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>bold and confident, with a glance at the summer-house</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, tho’ I took it to the highest place,—</div> - <div class='line'>Judgment, I know, would be reversed by grace!</div> - <div class='line'>I know two hearts can live a life complete,</div> - <div class='line'>With hope still ardent, and with faith still sweet;</div> - <div class='line'>You preach the wretched gospel of the hour,</div> - <div class='line'>That the Ideal is secondary!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>No!</div> - <div class='line'>It’s primary: appointed, like the flower,</div> - <div class='line'>To generate the fruit, and then to go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Indoors</i>, <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>plays and sings: “In -the Gloaming.”</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span> <i>stands listening -in silent emotion.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With the same melody she calls me yet</div> - <div class='line'>Which thrilled me to the heart when first we met.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Lays his hand on <span class='sc'>Falk’s</span> arm and gazes -intently at him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oft as she wakens those pathetic notes,</div> - <div class='line'>From the white keys reverberating floats</div> - <div class='line'>An echo of the “yes” that made her mine.</div> - <div class='line'>And when our passions shall one day decline,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_430'>430</span>To live again as friendship, to the last</div> - <div class='line'>That song shall link that present to this past.</div> - <div class='line'>And what tho’ at the desk my back grow round,</div> - <div class='line'>And my day’s work a battle for mere bread,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet joy will lead me homeward, where the dead</div> - <div class='line'>Enchantment will be born again in sound.</div> - <div class='line'>If one poor bit of evening we can claim,</div> - <div class='line'>I shall come off undamaged from the game!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>He goes into the house.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>turns -towards the summer-house.</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> -<i>comes out, she is pale and agitated. -They gaze at each other in silence a moment, -and fling themselves impetuously -into each other’s arms.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, Svanhild, let us battle side by side!</div> - <div class='line'>Thou fresh glad blossom flowering by the tomb,—</div> - <div class='line'>See what the life is that they call youth’s bloom!</div> - <div class='line'>There’s coffin-stench of bridegroom and of bride;</div> - <div class='line'>There’s coffin-stench wherever two go by</div> - <div class='line'>At the street corner, smiling outwardly,</div> - <div class='line'>With falsehood’s reeking sepulchre beneath,</div> - <div class='line'>And in their blood the apathy of death.</div> - <div class='line'>And this they think is living! Heaven and earth,</div> - <div class='line'>Is such a load so many antics worth?</div> - <div class='line'>For such an end to haul up babes in shoals,</div> - <div class='line'>To pamper them with honesty and reason,</div> - <div class='line'>To feed them fat with faith one sorry season,</div> - <div class='line'>For service, after killing-day, as souls?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_431'>431</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Falk, let us travel!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Travel? Whither, then?</div> - <div class='line'>Is not the whole world everywhere the same?</div> - <div class='line'>And does not Truth’s own mirror in its frame</div> - <div class='line'>Lie equally to all the sons of men?</div> - <div class='line'>No, we will stay and watch the merry game,</div> - <div class='line'>The conjurer’s trick, the tragi-comedy</div> - <div class='line'>Of liars that are dupes of their own lie;</div> - <div class='line'>Stiver and Lind, the Parson and his dame,</div> - <div class='line'>See them,—prize oxen harness’d to love’s yoke,</div> - <div class='line'>And yet at bottom very decent folk!</div> - <div class='line'>Each wears for others and himself a mask,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet one too innocent to take to task;</div> - <div class='line'>Each one, a stranded sailor on a wreck,</div> - <div class='line'>Counts himself happy as the gods in heaven;</div> - <div class='line'>Each his own hand from Paradise has driven,</div> - <div class='line'>Then, splash! into the sulphur to the neck!</div> - <div class='line'>But none has any inkling where he lies,</div> - <div class='line'>Each thinks himself a knight of Paradise,</div> - <div class='line'>And each sits smiling between howl and howl;</div> - <div class='line'>And if the Fiend come by with jeer and growl,</div> - <div class='line'>With horns, and hoofs, and things yet more abhorred,—</div> - <div class='line'>Then each man jogs the neighbour at his jowl:</div> - <div class='line'>“Off with your hat, man! See, there goes the Lord!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>after a brief thoughtful silence</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How marvellous a love my steps <a id='corr431.30'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='has'>have</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_431.30'><ins class='correction' title='has'>have</ins></a></span> led</div> - <div class='line'>To this sweet trysting place! My life that sped</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_432'>432</span>In frolic and fantastic visions gay,</div> - <div class='line'>Henceforth shall grow one ceaseless working day!</div> - <div class='line'>O God! I wandered groping,—all was dim:</div> - <div class='line'>Thou gavest me light—and I discovered <em class='gesperrt'>him</em>!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Gazing at</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>in love and wonder.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Whence is that strength of thine, thou mighty tree</div> - <div class='line'>That stand’st unshaken in the wind-wrecked wood,</div> - <div class='line'>That stand’st alone, and yet canst shelter me—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God’s truth, my Svanhild;—that gives fortitude.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with a shy glance towards the house</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>They came like tempters, evilly inclined,</div> - <div class='line'>Each spokesman for his half of humankind,</div> - <div class='line'>One asking: How can true love reach its goal</div> - <div class='line'>When riches’ leaden weight subdues the soul?</div> - <div class='line'>The other asking: How can true love speed</div> - <div class='line'>When life’s a battle to the death with Need?</div> - <div class='line'>O horrible!—to bid the world receive</div> - <div class='line'>That teaching as the truth, and yet to live!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How if ’twere meant for us?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>For us?—What, then?</div> - <div class='line'>Can outward fate control the wills of men?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_433'>433</span>I have already said: if thou’lt stand fast,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll dare and suffer by thee to the last.</div> - <div class='line'>How light to listen to the gospel’s voice,</div> - <div class='line'>To leave one’s home behind, to weep, rejoice,</div> - <div class='line'>And take with God the husband of one’s choice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>embracing her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come then, and blow thy worst, thou winter weather!</div> - <div class='line'>We stand unshaken, for we stand together!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>come in from -the right in the background.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [aside].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Observe!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>and</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>remain standing by -the summer-house.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>surprised</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Together!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Do you doubt it now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This is most singular.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>O, I’ve noted how</div> - <div class='line'>His work of late absorb’d his interest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_434'>434</span><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>to herself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who would have fancied Svanhild was so sly?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Vivaciously to</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - <div class='line'>But no—I can’t think.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Put it to the test.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now, on the spot?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Yes, and decisively!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>giving him her hand</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God’s blessing with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>gravely</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Thanks, it may bestead.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Comes to the front.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>looking back as she goes towards the house</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whichever way it goes, my child is sped.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes in.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>approaching <span class='sc'>Falk</span></i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s late, I think?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Ten minutes and I go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_435'>435</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sufficient for my purpose.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>going</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Farewell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in39'>No,</div> - <div class='line'>Remain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Shall I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Until you’ve answered me.</div> - <div class='line'>It’s time we squared accounts. It’s time we three</div> - <div class='line'>Talked out for once together from the heart.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>taken aback</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>We three?</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Yes,—all disguises flung apart.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>suppressing a smile</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, at your service.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Very good, then hear.</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve been acquainted now for half a year;</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve wrangled—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_436'>436</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>We’ve been in constant feud;</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve changed hard blows enough. You fought—alone—</div> - <div class='line'>For a sublime ideal; I as one</div> - <div class='line'>Among the money-grubbing multitude.</div> - <div class='line'>And yet it seemed as if a chord united</div> - <div class='line'>Us two, as if a thousand thoughts that lay</div> - <div class='line'>Deep in my own youth’s memory benighted</div> - <div class='line'>Had started at your bidding into day.</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, I amaze you. But this hair grey-sprinkled</div> - <div class='line'>Once fluttered brown in spring-time, and this brow,</div> - <div class='line'>Which daily occupation moistens now</div> - <div class='line'>With sweat of labour, was not always wrinkled.</div> - <div class='line'>Enough; I am a man of business, hence—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with gentle sarcasm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You are the type of practical good sense.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you are hope’s own singer young and fain.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Stepping between them.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Just therefore, Falk and Svanhild, I am here.</div> - <div class='line'>Now let us talk, then; for the hour is near</div> - <div class='line'>Which brings good hap or sorrow in its train.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>in suspense</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Speak, then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_437'>437</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>My ground is, as I said last night,</div> - <div class='line'>A kind of poetry—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>In practice.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>nodding slowly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Right!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And if one asked the source from which you drew—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Glancing a moment at</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>, <i>and -then turning again to</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A common source discovered by us two.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now I must go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>No, wait till I conclude.</div> - <div class='line'>I should not ask so much of others. You,</div> - <div class='line'>Svanhild, I’ve learnt to fathom thro’ and thro’;</div> - <div class='line'>You are too sensible to play the prude.</div> - <div class='line'>I watched expand, unfold, your little life;</div> - <div class='line'>A perfect woman I divined within you,</div> - <div class='line'>But long I only saw a daughter in you;—</div> - <div class='line'>Now I ask of you—will you be my wife?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>draws back in embarrassment.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_438'>438</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>seizing his arm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Patience; she must answer. Put your own</div> - <div class='line'>Question;—then her decision will be free.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I—do you say?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>looking steadily at him</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>The happiness of three</div> - <div class='line'>Lives is at stake to-day,—not mine alone.</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t fancy it concerns you less than me;</div> - <div class='line'>For tho’ base matter is my chosen sphere,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet nature made me something of a seer.</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, Falk, you love her. Gladly, I confess,</div> - <div class='line'>I saw your young love bursting into flower.</div> - <div class='line'>But this young passion, with its lawless power,</div> - <div class='line'>May be the ruin of her happiness.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>firing up</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You have the face to say so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>quietly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Years give right.</div> - <div class='line'>Say now you won her—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>defiantly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>And what then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_439'>439</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>slowly and emphatically</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>Yes, say</div> - <div class='line'>She ventured in one bottom to embark</div> - <div class='line'>Her <em class='gesperrt'>all</em>, her all upon one card to play,—</div> - <div class='line'>And then life’s tempest swept the ship away,</div> - <div class='line'>And the flower faded as the day grew dark?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>involuntarily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She must not!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>looking at him with meaning</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Hm. So I myself decided</div> - <div class='line'>When I was young, like you. In days of old</div> - <div class='line'>I was afire for one. Our paths divided.</div> - <div class='line'>Last night we met again;—the fire was cold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Last night?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Last night. You know the parson’s dame—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What? It was <em class='gesperrt'>she</em>, then, who—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Who lit the flame.</div> - <div class='line'>Long I remembered her with keen regret,</div> - <div class='line'>And still in my remembrance she arose</div> - <div class='line'>As the young lovely woman that she was</div> - <div class='line'>When in life’s buoyant spring-time first we met.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_440'>440</span>And that same foolish fire you now are fain</div> - <div class='line'>To light, that game of hazard you would dare.</div> - <div class='line'>See, that is why I call to you—beware!</div> - <div class='line'>The game is perilous! Pause, and think again!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, to the whole tea-caucus I declared</div> - <div class='line'>My fixed and unassailable belief—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>completing his sentence</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That heartfelt love can weather unimpaired</div> - <div class='line'>Custom, and Poverty, and Age, and Grief.</div> - <div class='line'>Well, say it be so; possibly you’re right;</div> - <div class='line'>But see the matter in another light.</div> - <div class='line'>What <em class='gesperrt'>love</em> is, no man ever told us—whence</div> - <div class='line'>It issues, that ecstatic confidence</div> - <div class='line'>That one life may fulfil itself in two,—</div> - <div class='line'>To this no mortal ever found the clue.</div> - <div class='line'>But <em class='gesperrt'>marriage</em> is a practical concern,</div> - <div class='line'>As also is betrothal, my good sir—</div> - <div class='line'>And by experience easily we learn</div> - <div class='line'>That we are fitted just for <em class='gesperrt'>her</em>, or <em class='gesperrt'>her</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>But love, you know, goes blindly to its fate,</div> - <div class='line'>Chooses a woman, not a wife, for mate;</div> - <div class='line'>And what if now this chosen woman was</div> - <div class='line'>No wife for you—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>in suspense</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>shrugging his shoulders</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Then you’ve lost your cause.</div> - <div class='line'>To make a happy bridegroom and a bride</div> - <div class='line'>Demands not love alone, but much beside,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_441'>441</span>Relations one can meet with satisfaction,</div> - <div class='line'>Ideas that do not wholly disagree.</div> - <div class='line'>And marriage? Why, it is a very sea</div> - <div class='line'>Of claims and calls, of taxing and exaction,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose bearing upon love is very small.</div> - <div class='line'>Here mild domestic virtues are demanded,</div> - <div class='line'>A kitchen soul, inventive and neat handed,</div> - <div class='line'>Making no claims, and executing all;—</div> - <div class='line'>And much which in a lady’s presence I</div> - <div class='line'>Can hardly with decorum specify.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And therefore—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Hear a golden counsel then.</div> - <div class='line'>Use your experience; watch your fellow-men,</div> - <div class='line'>How every loving couple struts and swaggers</div> - <div class='line'>Like millionaires among a world of beggars.</div> - <div class='line'>They scamper to the altar, lad and lass,</div> - <div class='line'>They make a home and, drunk with exultation,</div> - <div class='line'>Dwell for awhile within its walls of glass.</div> - <div class='line'>Then comes the day of reckoning;—out, alas,</div> - <div class='line'>They’re bankrupt, and their house in liquidation!</div> - <div class='line'>Bankrupt the bloom of youth on woman’s brow,</div> - <div class='line'>Bankrupt the flower of passion in her breast,</div> - <div class='line'>Bankrupt the husband’s battle-ardour now,</div> - <div class='line'>Bankrupt each spark of passion he possessed.</div> - <div class='line'>Bankrupt the whole estate, below, above,—</div> - <div class='line'>And yet this broken pair were once confessed</div> - <div class='line'>A first-class house in all the wares of love!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>vehemently</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That is a lie!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_442'>442</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>unmoved</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Some hours ago ’twas true</div> - <div class='line'>However. I have only quoted you;—</div> - <div class='line'>In these same words you challenged to the field</div> - <div class='line'>The “caucus” with love’s name upon your shield.</div> - <div class='line'>Then rang repudiation fast and thick</div> - <div class='line'>From all directions, as from you at present;</div> - <div class='line'>Incredible, I know; who finds it pleasant</div> - <div class='line'>To hear the name of death when he is sick?</div> - <div class='line'>Look at the priest! A painter and composer</div> - <div class='line'>Of taste and spirit when he wooed his bride;—</div> - <div class='line'>What wonder if the man became a proser</div> - <div class='line'>When she was snugly settled by his side?</div> - <div class='line'>To be his lady-love she was most fit;</div> - <div class='line'>To be his wife, tho’—not a bit of it.</div> - <div class='line'>And then the clerk, who once wrote clever numbers?</div> - <div class='line'>No sooner was the gallant plighted, fixed,</div> - <div class='line'>Than all his rhymes ran counter and got mixed;</div> - <div class='line'>And now his Muse continuously slumbers,</div> - <div class='line'>Lullabied by the law’s eternal hum.</div> - <div class='line'>Thus you see— <span class='float-right'>[<i>Looks at</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Are you cold?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>softly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with forced humour</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Since the sum</div> - <div class='line'>Works out a <em class='gesperrt'>minus</em> then in every case</div> - <div class='line'>And never shows a <em class='gesperrt'>plus</em>,—why should you be</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_443'>443</span>So resolute your capital to place</div> - <div class='line'>In such a questionable lottery?</div> - <div class='line'>It almost looks as if you fancied Fate</div> - <div class='line'>Had meant you for a bankrupt from your birth?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>looks at him, smiles, and shakes his head</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My bold young Falk, reserve a while your mirth.—</div> - <div class='line'>There are two ways of founding an estate.</div> - <div class='line'>It may be built on credit—drafts long-dated</div> - <div class='line'>On pleasure in a never-ending bout,</div> - <div class='line'>On perpetuity of youth unbated,</div> - <div class='line'>And permanent postponement of the gout.</div> - <div class='line'>It may be built on lips of rosy red,</div> - <div class='line'>On sparkling eyes and locks of flowing gold,</div> - <div class='line'>On trust these glories never will be shed,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor the dread hour of periwigs be tolled.</div> - <div class='line'>It may be built on thoughts that glow and quiver,—</div> - <div class='line'>Flowers blowing in the sandy wilderness,—</div> - <div class='line'>On hearts that, to the end of life, for ever</div> - <div class='line'>Throb with the passion of the primal “yes.”</div> - <div class='line'>To dealings such as this the world extends</div> - <div class='line'>One epithet: ’tis known as “humbug,” friends.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I see, you are a dangerous attorney,</div> - <div class='line'>You—well-to-do, a millionaire may-be;</div> - <div class='line'>While two broad backs could carry in one journey</div> - <div class='line'>All that beneath the sun belongs to me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_444'>444</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>sharply</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What do you mean?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>That is not hard to see.</div> - <div class='line'>For the sound way of building, I suppose,</div> - <div class='line'>Is just with cash—the wonder-working paint</div> - <div class='line'>That round the widow’s batten’d forehead throws</div> - <div class='line'>The aureole of a young adored saint.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O no, ’tis something better that I meant.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis the still flow of generous esteem,</div> - <div class='line'>Which no less honours the recipient</div> - <div class='line'>Than does young rapture’s giddy-whirling dream.</div> - <div class='line'>It is the feeling of the blessedness</div> - <div class='line'>Of service, and home quiet, and tender ties,</div> - <div class='line'>The joy of mutual self-sacrifice,</div> - <div class='line'>Of keeping watch lest any stone distress</div> - <div class='line'>Her footsteps wheresoe’er her pathway lies;</div> - <div class='line'>It is the healing arm of a true friend,</div> - <div class='line'>The manly muscle that no burdens bend,</div> - <div class='line'>The constancy no length of years decays,</div> - <div class='line'>The arm that stoutly lifts and firmly stays.</div> - <div class='line'>This, Svanhild, is the contribution I</div> - <div class='line'>Bring to your fortune’s fabric: now, reply.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>makes an effort to speak;</i> -<span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>lifts his hand to check her.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Consider well before you give your voice!</div> - <div class='line'>With clear deliberation make your choice.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_445'>445</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And how have you discovered—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>That you love her?</div> - <div class='line'>That in your eyes ’twas easy to discover.</div> - <div class='line'>Let her too know it.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Presses his hand.</i></div> - <div class='line in20'>Now I will go in.</div> - <div class='line'>Let the jest cease and earnest work begin;</div> - <div class='line'>And if you undertake that till the end</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll be to her no less a faithful friend,</div> - <div class='line'>A staff to lean on, and a help in need,</div> - <div class='line'>Than I can be— <span class='float-right'>[<i>Turning to</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></span></div> - <div class='line in14'>Why, good, my offer’s nought;</div> - <div class='line'>Cancel it from the tables of your thought.</div> - <div class='line'>Then it is I who triumph in very deed;</div> - <div class='line'>You’re happy, and for nothing else I fought.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - <div class='line'>And, apropos—just now you spoke of cash,</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, ’tis little more than tinsell’d trash.</div> - <div class='line'>I have no ties, stand perfectly alone;</div> - <div class='line'>To you I will make over all I own;</div> - <div class='line'>My daughter she shall be, and you my son.</div> - <div class='line'>You know I have a business by the border:</div> - <div class='line'>There I’ll retire, you set your home in order,</div> - <div class='line'>And we’ll foregather when a year is gone.</div> - <div class='line'>Now, Falk, you know me; with the same precision</div> - <div class='line'>Observe yourself: the voyage down life’s stream,</div> - <div class='line'>Remember, is no pastime and no dream.</div> - <div class='line'>Now, in the name of God—make your decision!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes into the house. Pause.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> <i>look shyly at each other.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_446'>446</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You are so pale.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>And you so silent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in35'>True.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He smote us hardest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span> [<i>to himself</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Stole my armour, too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What blows he struck!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>He knew to place them well.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All seemed to go to pieces where they fell.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Coming nearer to him.</i></div> - <div class='line'>How rich in one another’s wealth before</div> - <div class='line'>We were, when all had left us in despite,</div> - <div class='line'>And Thought rose upward like the echoing roar</div> - <div class='line'>Of breakers in the silence of the night.</div> - <div class='line'>With exultation then we faced the fray,</div> - <div class='line'>And confidence that Love is lord of death;—</div> - <div class='line'>He came with worldly cunning, stole our faith,</div> - <div class='line'>Sowed doubt,—and all the glory pass’d away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_447'>447</span><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with wild vehemence</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tear, tear it from thy memory! All his talk</div> - <div class='line'>Was true for others, but for us a lie!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>slowly shaking her head</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The golden grain, hail-stricken on its stalk,</div> - <div class='line'>Will never more wave wanton to the sky.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with an outburst of anguish</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, we two, Svanhild—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Hence with hopes that snare!</div> - <div class='line'>If you sow falsehood, you must reap despair.</div> - <div class='line'>For others true, you say? And do you doubt</div> - <div class='line'>That each of them, like us, is sure, alike,</div> - <div class='line'>That he’s the man the lightning will not strike,</div> - <div class='line'>And no avenging thunder will find out,</div> - <div class='line'>Whom the blue storm-cloud, scudding up the sky</div> - <div class='line'>On wings of tempest, never can come nigh?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The others split their souls on scattered ends:</div> - <div class='line'>Thy single love my being comprehends.</div> - <div class='line'>They’re hoarse with yelling in life’s Babel din:</div> - <div class='line'>I in this quiet shelter fold thee in.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if love, notwithstanding, should decay,</div> - <div class='line'>—Love being Happiness’s single stay—</div> - <div class='line'>Could you avert, then, Happiness’s fall?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_448'>448</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, my love’s ruin were the wreck of all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And can you promise me before the Lord</div> - <div class='line'>That it will last, not drooping like the flower,</div> - <div class='line'>But smell as sweet as now till life’s last hour?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>after a short pause</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It will last long.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with anguish</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>“Long!” “Long!”—Poor starveling word!</div> - <div class='line'>Can “long” give any comfort in Love’s need?</div> - <div class='line'>It is her death-doom, blight upon her seed.</div> - <div class='line'>“My faith is, Love will never pass away”—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>That</em> song must cease, and in its stead be heard:</div> - <div class='line'>“My faith is, that I loved you yesterday!”</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>As uplifted by inspiration.</i></div> - <div class='line'>No, no, not thus our day of bliss shall wane,</div> - <div class='line'>Flag drearily to west in clouds and rain;—</div> - <div class='line'>But at high noontide, when it is most bright,</div> - <div class='line'>Plunge sudden, like a meteor, into night!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span> [<i>in anguish</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What would you, Svanhild?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>We are of the Spring;</div> - <div class='line'>No Autumn shall come after, when the bird</div> - <div class='line'>Of music in thy breast shall not be heard,</div> - <div class='line'>And long not thither where it first took wing.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_449'>449</span>Nor ever Winter shall his snowy shroud</div> - <div class='line'>Lay on the clay-cold body of our bliss;—</div> - <div class='line'>This Love of ours, ardent and glad and proud,</div> - <div class='line'>Pure of disease’s taint and age’s cloud,</div> - <div class='line'>Shall die the young and glorious thing it is!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>in deep pain</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And far from thee—what would be left of life?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And near me what were left—if Love depart?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A home!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Where Joy would gasp in mortal strife.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Firmly.</i></div> - <div class='line'>It was not given to me to be your wife.</div> - <div class='line'>That is the clear conviction of my heart!</div> - <div class='line'>In courtship’s merry pastime I can lead,</div> - <div class='line'>But not sustain your spirit in its need.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Nearer and with gathering fire.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Now we have revell’d out a feast of spring;</div> - <div class='line'>No thought of slumber’s sluggard couch come nigh!</div> - <div class='line'>Let Joy amid delirious song make wing</div> - <div class='line'>And flock with choirs of cherubim on high.</div> - <div class='line'>And tho’ the vessel of our fate capsize,</div> - <div class='line'>One plank yet breasts the waters, strong to save;—</div> - <div class='line'>The fearless swimmer reaches Paradise!</div> - <div class='line'>Let Joy go down into his watery grave;</div> - <div class='line'>Our Love shall yet in triumph, by God’s hand,</div> - <div class='line'>Be borne from out the wreckage safe to land!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_450'>450</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, I divine thee! But—to sever thus!</div> - <div class='line'>Now, when the portals of the world stand wide,—</div> - <div class='line'>When the blue spring is bending over us,</div> - <div class='line'>On the same day that plighted thee my bride!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just therefore must we part. Our joy’s torch fire</div> - <div class='line'>Will from this moment wane till it expire!</div> - <div class='line'>And when at last our worldly days are spent,</div> - <div class='line'>And face to face with our great Judge we stand,</div> - <div class='line'>And, as a righteous God, he shall demand</div> - <div class='line'>Of us the earthly treasure that he lent—</div> - <div class='line'>Then, Falk, we cry—past power of Grace to save—</div> - <div class='line'>“O Lord, we lost it going to the grave!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with strong resolve</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pluck off the ring!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with fire</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Wilt thou?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Now I divine!</div> - <div class='line'>Thus and no otherwise canst thou be mine!</div> - <div class='line'>As the grave opens into life’s Dawn-fire,</div> - <div class='line'>So Love with Life may not espoused be</div> - <div class='line'>Till, loosed from longing and from wild desire,</div> - <div class='line'>It soars into the heaven of memory!</div> - <div class='line'>Pluck off the ring, Svanhild!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_451'>451</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>in rapture</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>My task is done!</div> - <div class='line'>Now I have filled thy soul with song and sun.</div> - <div class='line'>Forth! Now thou soarest on triumphant wings,—</div> - <div class='line'>Forth! Now thy Svanhild is the swan that sings!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Takes off the ring and presses a kiss upon it.</i></div> - <div class='line'>To the abysmal ooze of ocean bed</div> - <div class='line'>Descend, my dream!—I fling thee in its stead!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>Goes a few steps back, throws the ring into -the fjord, and approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>with a -transfigured expression.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now for this earthly life I have foregone thee,—</div> - <div class='line'>But for the life eternal I have won thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>firmly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And now to the day’s duties, each, alone.</div> - <div class='line'>Our paths no more will mingle. Each must wage</div> - <div class='line'>His warfare single-handed, without moan.</div> - <div class='line'>We caught the fevered frenzy of the age,</div> - <div class='line'>Fain without fighting to secure the spoil,</div> - <div class='line'>Win Sabbath ease, and shirk the six days’ toil,</div> - <div class='line'>Tho’ we are called to strive and to forego.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But not in sickness.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_452'>452</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>No,—made strong by truth.</div> - <div class='line'>Our heads no penal flood will overflow;</div> - <div class='line'>This never-dying memory of our youth</div> - <div class='line'>Shall gleam against the cloud-wrack like the bow</div> - <div class='line'>Of promise flaming in its colours seven,—</div> - <div class='line'>Sign that we are in harmony with heaven.</div> - <div class='line'>That gleam your quiet duties shall make bright—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And speed the poet in his upward flight!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The poet, yes; for poets all men are</div> - <div class='line'>Who see, thro’ all their labours, mean or great,</div> - <div class='line'>In pulpit or in schoolroom, church or state,</div> - <div class='line'>The Ideal’s lone beacon-splendour flame afar.</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, upward is my flight; the winged steed</div> - <div class='line'>Is saddled; I am strung for noble deed.</div> - <div class='line'>And now, farewell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Farewell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>embracing her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>One kiss!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>The last!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Tears herself free.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Now I can lose thee gladly till life’s past!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_453'>453</span><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tho’ quenched were all the light of earth and sky,—</div> - <div class='line'>The thought of light is God, and cannot die.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>withdrawing towards the background</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes further.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Farewell—gladly I cry again—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Waves his hat.</i></div> - <div class='line'>Hurrah for love, God’s glorious gift to men!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>The door opens.</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>withdraws to the -right; the younger guests come out with -merry laughter.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Young Girls.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A lawn dance!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Young Girl.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Dancing’s life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>A garland spread</div> - <div class='line'>With dewy blossoms fresh on every head!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, to the dance, the dance!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_454'>454</span><span class='sc'>All.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>And ne’er to bed!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Stiver</span> <i>comes out with</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span> <i>arm in -arm.</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span> <i>and the children -follow.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, you and I henceforward are fast friends.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Allied in battle for our common ends.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>When the twin forces of the State agree—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>They add to all men’s—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>hastily</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Gains!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>And gaiety.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span>, <span class='sc'>Lind</span>, <span class='sc'>Anna</span>, <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span>, <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span>, <i>with the other guests, come -out. All eyes are turned upon</i> <span class='sc'>Falk</span> <i>and</i> -<span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>. <i>General amazement when -they are seen standing apart.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>among the</i> <span class='sc'>Aunts</span>, <i>clasping her hands</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What! Am I awake or dreaming, pray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_455'>455</span><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>who has noticed nothing</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have a brother’s compliments to pay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>He, with the other guests, approaches</i> -<span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>but starts involuntarily and steps -back on looking at him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is the matter with you? You’re a Janus</div> - <div class='line'>With double face!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>smiling</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>I cry, like old Montanus,</div> - <div class='line'>The earth is flat, Messieurs;—my optics lied;</div> - <div class='line'>Flat as a pancake—are you satisfied?</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes quickly out to the right.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Refused!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Aunts.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Refused!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Hush, ladies, if you please!</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Goes across to</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Strawman</span> [<i>to <span class='sc'>Strawman</span></i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fancy, refused!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>It cannot be!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>It is!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_456'>456</span><span class='sc'>The Ladies</span> [<i>from mouth to mouth</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Refused! Refused! Refused!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They gather in little groups about the -garden.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span> [<i>dumfounded</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'><em class='gesperrt'>He</em> courting? How?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, think! He laugh’d at us, ha, ha—but</div> - <div class='line'>now—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>They gaze at each other speechless.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s good! He was too horrid, to be sure!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>embracing her</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah, now thou art mine, entire and whole.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>They go outside into the garden.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>looking back towards</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Something is shattered in a certain soul;</div> - <div class='line'>But what is yet alive in it I’ll cure.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>recovering himself and embracing</i> <span class='sc'>Stiver</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now then, you can be very well contented</div> - <div class='line'>To have your dear <i>fiancée</i> for a spouse.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_457'>457</span><span class='sc'>Stiver.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And you complacently can see your house</div> - <div class='line'>With little Strawmans every year augmented.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Rubbing his hands with satisfaction and -looking after</i> <span class='sc'>Falk.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Insolent fellow! Well, it served him right;—</div> - <div class='line'>Would all these knowing knaves were in his plight!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They go across in conversation</i>; <span class='sc'>Mrs. -Halm</span> <i>approaches with</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> [<i>aside, eagerly</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And nothing binds you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Nothing.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Good, you know</div> - <div class='line'>A daughter’s duty—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Guide me, I obey.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thanks, child.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></div> - <div class='line in16'>He is a rich and <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>comme il faut</i></span></div> - <div class='line'><span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr"><i>Parti</i></span>; and since there’s nothing in the way—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_458'>458</span><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>Yes, there is one condition I require!— -To leave this place.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'> Precisely his desire.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c027'>And time—</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>How long? Bethink you, fortune’s calling!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> [<i>with a quiet smile</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Only a little; till the leaves are falling.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>She goes towards the verandah;</i> <span class='sc'>Mrs. -Halm</span> <i>seeks out</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad.</span></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>among the guests</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One lesson, friends, we learn from this example!</div> - <div class='line'>Tho’ Doubt’s beleaguering forces hem us in,</div> - <div class='line'>Yet Truth upon the Serpent’s head shall trample,</div> - <div class='line'>The cause of Love shall win—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Guests.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Yes, Love shall win!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>They embrace and kiss, pair by pair. -Outside to the left are heard song and -laughter.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_459'>459</span><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What can this mean?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>The students!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>The quartette,</div> - <div class='line'>Bound for the mountains;—and I quite forgot</div> - <div class='line'>To tell them—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>The</i> <span class='sc'>Students</span> <i>come in to the left and remain -standing at the entrance.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Student</span> [<i>to</i> <span class='sc'>Lind</span>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Here we are upon the spot!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s Lind you seek, then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>That’s unfortunate.</div> - <div class='line'>He’s just engaged—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>An Aunt.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>And so, you may be sure,</div> - <div class='line'>He cannot think of going on a tour.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Students.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Engaged!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_460'>460</span><span class='sc'>All the Students.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Congratulations!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>to his comrades</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Thanks, my friends!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Student</span> [<i>to his comrades</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There goes our whole fish-kettle in the fire!</div> - <div class='line'>Our tenor lost! No possible amends!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Coming from the right, in summer suit, -with student’s cap, knapsack and stick.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><i>I</i>’ll sing the tenor in young Norway’s choir!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Students.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Falk! hurrah!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Forth to the mountains, come!</div> - <div class='line'>As the bee hurries from her winter home!</div> - <div class='line'>A twofold music in my breast I bear,</div> - <div class='line'>A cither with diversely sounding strings,</div> - <div class='line'>One for life’s joy, a treble loud and clear,</div> - <div class='line'>And one deep note that quivers as it sings.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>To individuals among the</i> <span class='sc'>Students</span>.</div> - <div class='line'>You have the palette?—You the note-book? Good,</div> - <div class='line'>Swarm then, my bees, into the leafy wood,</div> - <div class='line'>Till at night-fall with pollen-laden thigh,</div> - <div class='line'>Home to our mighty mother-queen we fly!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c031'><span class='pageno' id='Page_461'>461</span></p><div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Turning to the company, while the</i> <span class='sc'>Students</span> -<i>depart and the Chorus of the First -Act is faintly heard outside.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Forgive me my offences great and small,</div> - <div class='line'>I resent nothing;—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Softly.</i></div> - <div class='line in22'>but remember all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Strawman</span> [<i>beaming with happiness</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now fortune’s garden once again is green!</div> - <div class='line'>My wife has hopes,—a sweet presentiment—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Draws him whispering apart.</i></div> - <div class='line'>She lately whispered of a glad event—</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Inaudible words intervene.</i></div> - <div class='line'>If all goes well ... at Michaelmas ... thirteen!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Stiver</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>With</i> <span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> <i>on his arm, turning to</i> -<span class='sc'>Falk</span>, <i>smiles triumphantly, and says, -pointing to</i> <span class='sc'>Strawman</span>:</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m going to start a household, flush of pelf!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [<i>with an ironical courtesy</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I shall put on my wedding-ring next Yule.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Anna</span> [<i>similarly, as she takes</i> <span class='sc'>Lind’s</span> <i>arm</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My Lind will stay, the Church can mind itself—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Lind</span> [<i>hiding his embarrassment</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And seek an opening in a ladies’ school.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I cultivate my Anna’s capabilities—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_462'>462</span><span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> [<i>gravely</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>An unromantic poem I mean to make</div> - <div class='line'>Of one who only lives for duty’s sake.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Falk</span> [<i>with a smile to the whole company</i>].</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I go to scale the Future’s possibilities!</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell! <span class='float-right'>[<i>Softly to</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></span></div> - <div class='line in11'>God bless thee, bride of my life’s dawn,</div> - <div class='line'>Where’er I be, to nobler deed thou’lt wake me.</div> - <div class='c036'>[<i>Waves his hat and follows the</i> <span class='sc'>Students.</span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c026'> - <div><span class='sc'>Svanhild.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>Looks after him a moment, then says, - softly but firmly:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c026'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now over is my life, by lea and lawn,</div> - <div class='line'>The leaves are falling;—now the world may take me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c025'>[<i>At this moment the piano strikes up a -dance, and champagne corks explode in -the background. The gentlemen hurry -to and fro with their ladies on their -arms.</i> <span class='sc'>Guldstad</span> <i>approaches</i> <span class='sc'>Svanhild</span> -<i>and bows: she starts momentarily, then -collects herself and gives him her hand.</i> -<span class='sc'>Mrs. Halm</span> <i>and her family, who have -watched the scene in suspense, throng -about them with expressions of rapture, -which are overpowered by the music and -the merriment of the dancers in the -garden.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>[<i>But from the country the following -chorus rings loud and defiant through -the dance music:</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_463'>463</span><span class='sc'>Chorus of Falk and the Students.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>And what if I shattered my roaming bark, -It was passing sweet to be roaming!</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c022'> - <div><span class='sc'>Most of the Company.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c029'>Hurrah!</p> -</div> - -<div class='c028'>[<i>Dance and merriment; the curtain falls.</i></div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c008'>NOTES</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c011'><a href='#Page_304'>P. 18.</a> “<i>William Russel.</i>” An original historic tragedy, -founded upon the career of the ill-fated Lord William -Russell, by Andreas Munch, cousin of the historian P. A. -Munch. It was produced at Christiania in 1857, the year of -Ibsen’s return from Bergen, and reviewed by him in the -<span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Illustreret Nyhedsblad</cite></span> for that year, Nos. 51 and 52. Professor -Johan Storm of Christiania, to whose kindness I owe -these particulars, adds that “it is rather a fine play and -created a certain sensation in its time; but Munch is forgotten.”</p> - -<p class='c012'><a href='#Page_306'>P. 20.</a> <i>A grey old stager.</i> Ibsen’s friend P. Botten-Hansen, -author of the play <span lang="no" xml:lang="no"><cite>Hyldrebryllupet</cite></span>.</p> - -<p class='c012'><a href='#Page_347'>P. 59.</a> <i>A Svanhild like the old.</i> In the tale of the Völsungs -Svanhild was the daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun,—the -Siegfried and Kriemhild of the <i>Nibelungenlied</i>. The -fierce king Jormunrek, hearing of her matchless beauty, -sends his son Randwer to woo her in his name. Randwer -is, however, induced to woo her in his own, and the girl -approves. Jormunrek thereupon causes Randwer to be -arrested and hanged, and meeting with Svanhild, as he and -his men ride home from the hunt, tramples her to death under -their horses’ hoofs. Gudrun incites her sons Sorli and -Hamdir to avenge their sister; they boldly enter Jormunrek’s -hall, and succeed in cutting off his hands and feet, but are -themselves slain by his men. This last dramatic episode is -told in the Eddic <cite>Hamthismol</cite>.</p> - -<p class='c012'><a href='#Page_385'>P. 94.</a> <i>In the remotest east there grows a plant.</i> The germ -of the famous tea-simile is due to Fru Collett’s romance, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_464'>464</span>“The Official’s Daughters” (<i>cf.</i> Introduction, p. ix.). But -she exploits the idea only under a single and obvious aspect, -viz., the comparison of the tender bloom of love with the -precious firstling blade which brews the quintessential tea -for the Chinese emperor’s table; what the world calls love -being, like what it calls tea, a coarse and flavourless aftercrop. -Ibsen has, it will be seen, given a number of ingenious -developments to the analogy. I know Fru Collett’s work -only through the accounts of it given by Brandes and -Jæger.</p> - -<p class='c012'><a href='#Page_428'>P. 135.</a> <i>Another Burns.</i> In the original: “Dölen” -(“The Dalesman”), that is A. O. Vinje, Ibsen’s friend and -literary comrade, editor of the journal so-called and hence -known familiarly by its name. See the Introduction.</p> - -<p class='c012'><a href='#Page_455'>P. 160.</a> <i>Like Old Montanus.</i> The hero of Holberg’s -comedy <cite>Erasmus Montanus</cite>, who returns from foreign travel -to his native parish with the discovery that the world is not -flat. Public indignation is aroused, and Montanus finds it -expedient to announce that his eyes had deceived him, that -“the world <em>is</em> flat, gentlemen.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_465'>465</span> - <h2 class='c008'>ERRATA IN LATER VOLUMES</h2> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME II</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 65, lines 13 and 15 from bottom, <i>for</i> “Thorold” <i>read</i> <a id='corr465.3'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='“Thorolf'>“Thorolf.”</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_465.3'><ins class='correction' title='“Thorolf'>“Thorolf.”</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>Page 223, line 10 from top, <i>for</i> “our” <i>read</i> “your.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 306, last line, <i>for</i> “comes” <i>read</i> “come.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME III</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 31, last line, first word “Ha!”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 41, line 9 from bottom, <i>for</i> “wing” <i>read</i> “wings.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 106, last line, first word “But.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 136, line 13 from bottom, <i>for</i> “in” <i>read</i> “is.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 163, line 4 from bottom, <i>before</i> “must” insert “I.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 204, first line, <i>for</i> “Babe” <i>read</i> “Babel.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME IV</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 68, line 2 from top, <i>after</i> “Black” <i>read</i> “it.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 165, line 2 from bottom, <i>for</i> “than” <i>read</i> “that.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 226, line 10 from top, <i>for</i> “mus” <i>read</i> “muss.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 239, line 5 from top, <i>for</i> “That” <i>read</i> “That’s.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME VI</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 288, line 10 from bottom, <i>for</i> “railways” <i>read</i> “railway.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME VIII</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 9, line 6 from top, <i>for</i> “it” <i>read</i> “is.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 125, line 14 from top, <i>for</i> “doubt” <i>read</i> “doubts.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 227, line 2 from top, <i>after</i> “us” <i>insert</i> “is.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 296, line 14 from bottom, <i>after</i> “takes” <i>delete</i> comma.</div> - <div class='line'>Page 366, line 10 from bottom, <i>after</i> “getting” <i>insert</i> “some.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME IX</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 170, line 14 from top, <i>for</i> “waters” <i>read</i> “water.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 243, line 8 from top, <i>for</i> “rises” <i>read</i> “rise.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<h3 class='c015'>VOLUME X</h3> - -<div class='lg-container-l c039'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Page 81, line 2 from bottom, <i>after</i> “if” <i>insert</i> “I.”</div> - <div class='line'>Page 151, line 2 from top, <i>delete</i> second “the.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> -<p class='c012'><a id='endnote'></a></p> -<div class='tnotes'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c021'> - <div><span class='large'>Transcriber’s Note</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c012'>The Notes that follow “Love’s Comedy” are indexed to page numbers relative -to the start of that play. Page 18, for instance, is printed as page 304, -and is the 18th page. The sole exception is the final note, referenced to -p. 160, which should be p. 168 according to this logic. Each has been -linked to the proper page.</p> - -<p class='c012'>Errors deemed most likely to be the printer’s have been corrected, and -are noted here. The references are to the page and line in the original. -The following issues should be noted, along with the resolutions.</p> - -<table class='table2' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='12%' /> -<col width='69%' /> -<col width='18%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_374.19'></a><a href='#corr374.19'>374.19</a></td> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Miss Jay</span> [(/[]<i>scoffing</i>.]</td> - <td class='c040'>Replaced.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_431.30'></a><a href='#corr431.30'>431.30</a></td> - <td class='c003'>my steps ha[s/ve] led</td> - <td class='c040'>Replaced.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_465.3'></a><a href='#corr465.3'>465.3</a></td> - <td class='c003'><i>for</i> “Thorold” <i>read</i> “Thorolf[.”]</td> - <td class='c040'>Added.</td> - </tr> -</table> - -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COLLECTED WORKS OF HENRIK IBSEN, VOL. 1 (OF 11) ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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