Gert (outside). For God's sake, open!
Lars. Why, it isn't a matter of life and death, Father Gert. [Exit.]
Gert (outside). In God's name, let me in!
[Enter Christine with a blanket.]
Christine. Olof, why are they knocking like that? He's asleep! (She wraps him up in the blanket.) Oh, that I were Sleep, so that you might flee to me when tired out by your struggles!
(The rattle of a heavy cart is heard; then the cart comes to a stop outside the house.).
Olof (waking up with a start). Is it five already?
Christine. No, it is only three.
Olof. Wasn't that a baker's cart I heard?
Christine. I don't know, but I don't think it would make such a noise. (She goes to the window.) Look, Olof! What can this he?