Gustaf. Well, put him under the ban.
Brask. It has been done, and yet he remains in the service of Your Highness.
Gustaf. What more do you want done to him? Tell me? (Pause.)
Brask. Furthermore, he has gone so far as to marry secretly in violation of the Canon Law.
Gustaf. Is that so? That's quick action.
Brask. It doesn't concern Your Highness? Good and well! But if he stirs up the people?
Gustaf. Then I'll step in. Anything more?
Brask (after a pause). I ask you for heaven's sake not to plunge the country into disaster again. It is not yet ripe for a new faith. We are but reeds in the wind and can be bent—but when it comes to the faith, or the Church—never!
Gustaf (holding out his hand to the Bishop). Maybe you are right! But let us be enemies rather than false friends, Bishop Hans!
Brask. Be it so! But do not do what you will regret. Every stone you tear out of the Church will be thrown at you by the people.