Nils. They have obtained the King's permission. You see, the plague broke out in the parish of St. Clara, and some believe it was because of the godless destruction of St. Clara's convent.
Windrank. And now they mean to drive away the plague with singing—as if that bugaboo were a hater of music. But, of course, it wouldn't be a wonder if he did flee from their hoarse screeching.
Nils. Will you please tell me who has dared to invade this last sanctuary—for it's here the bones of the Saint are to be deposited before the place is torn down entirely.
Windrank. Then there'll be a fight, I fear.
[The singing has drawn nearer. A procession enters, made up of Dominican friars and Franciscan nuns, headed by Mårten. They come to a halt and continue singing, while the workmen are making a great deal of noise in the background.]
Procession. Cur super vermes luteos furorem
Sunnis, O magni fabricator orbis!
Quid sumus quam fex, putris, umbra, pulvis
Glebaque terrae!
Mårten (to the Abbess). You can see, my sister, how the abode of the Lord has been despoiled.
Abbess. The Lord who has delivered us into the hands of the Egyptians will also set its free in due time.
Mårten (to the workmen). Cease working, and do not disturb our pious task!
Overseer. Our orders are to work day and night until this den has been torn down.