STIG. That's true. We have done nothing wrong, and no one has threatened us.—Be quiet, friends. I shall soon be back. [He goes out.
MONS. That's right!
OLAVUS. Throw a stick at the pack, and the one that is hit will yelp.
ANDERS. [To MONS] That was stupid of us! Let us keep calm! [Aloud] You see, doctor, one gets suspicious as one grows old, particularly after having seen so many broken words and promises....
OLAVUS. I understand. In these days, when people change masters as the snake changes its skin, a certain instability of mind is easily produced. In young men it may be pardonable, but it is absolutely unpardonable in old and experienced persons.
MONS. As far as age is concerned, there is nothing to say about the King, who still is in his best years....
OLAVUS. And for that reason pardonable....
MONS. [To ANDERS] I think he must be the devil himself!
ANDERS. [To OLAVUS] How long are we to wait here? And what are we to wait for?
OLAVUS. The King's commands, as you ought to know.