Mother. What a precious boon to hear the word of the Lord in the sacred tongue!
Mårten. No sweeter sacrifice is known to God than the prayers of pious souls.
Mother. Like the incense, my heart is set on fire with holy devotion.
Mårten (sprinkling her with holy water). The stains of sin are by your God washed off!
Mother. Amen!—Mårten, I am passing away—The godlessness of the King makes it impossible for me by earthly gifts to strengthen the Holy Church in her power of saving souls. You are a pious man—take my property and pray for me and for my children. Pray that the Almighty may turn their hearts away from all lies, so that some time we may meet again in heaven.
Mårten (taking the bag of money she hands him). Goodwife, your sacrifice is acceptable to the Lord, and for your sake my prayers will be heard by God.
Mother. I want to sleep awhile in order to be strong enough to receive the last sacrament.
Mårten. No one shall disturb your final moments—not even those who were your children once.
Mother. It seems cruel, Father Mårten, but it's the will of God. (She falls asleep; Mårten and Nils withdraw from the bed.)
Mårten (opening the bag and kissing the gold coins). What stores of pleasure lie hidden beneath the hardness of this gold—Ah!