Lars. Do you hear that, Christine! What are we to do? Shall we let her die in the deception practised on her by a miserable wretch like Mårten—and perhaps get her thanks for it—or shall we turn her final prayer into a curse? No, let them come, rather! Or what do you think, Christine?
Christine. I dare not think at all.
Lars (goes out for a moment, but returns quickly). Oh, it is horrible! They have fallen asleep over their dice and their tumblers. And by such as those my mother is to be prepared for her death!
Christine. But why not tell her the truth?
Lars. She won't believe it, and it is cast back on us as a lie.
Mother. My son, won't you listen to your mother's last request?
Lars (going out). May God forgive me!
Christine. Olof would never have done that!
(Lars returns with Mårten and Nils, whereupon he leads Christine out of the room.)
Mårten (going up to the bed). She's sleeping.