BRITA goes into the church with LIT-MATS. The only ones that remain outside are KERSTI and the two soldiers.
The HEADSMAN enters from the right, carrying a black box. He keeps in the background and does not look in the direction of KERSTI.
KERSTI. [Catching sight of him] Christ Jesus, Saviour of the world, help me for the sake of Thy passion and death!
MIDWIFE. [Enters from the left and goes up to the HEADSMAN] Listen, my dear man.... If it comes off, would you mind my getting quite close to it?... I need a little of that red stuff, you know—for a sick person—one who has the falling sickness....
The HEADSMAN goes out to the left without answering.
MIDWIFE. Oh, he is of the kind that won't listen. [Going to KERSTI] Ah, there you are, my dear....
KERSTI. [With a deprecatory gesture] Begone!
MIDWIFE. [Keeping behind the pillory so that she cannot be seen by the soldiers] Wait a little! Wait a little! Listen now, my dear! I can do what others can't! The hour is near, and the black one is waiting!
KERSTI. In the name of Christ Jesus, begone!
MIDWIFE. Listen! I can do what others can't! I can set you free!
KERSTI. I have found my Saviour! His name is Christ Jesus!