The King's study. The background consists almost wholly of large windows, some of which have panes of stained glass. Several of the windows are open, and through these may be seen trees in the first green of spring. Mast tops with flying flags, and church spires are visible above the tops of the trees.
Beneath the windows are benches set in the walls. Their seats are covered by many-coloured cushions.
At the right, a huge open fireplace, richly decorated. The recently adopted national coat of arms appears on the mantelpiece. A door on the same side leads to the waiting-room.
A chair of state with canopy occupies the centre of the left wall. In front of it stands a long oak table covered with green cloth. On the table are a folio Bible, an inkstand, candlesticks, a war-hammer, and a number of other things. A door on the same side, nearer the background, leads to the royal apartments.
The floor is covered with animal skins and rugs.
The walls display paintings of Old Testament subjects. The most conspicuous of these represents "The Lord appearing unto Abraham in the plains of Mamre." The picture of Abraham bears a strong resemblance to the King.
An Arabian water-bottle of clay and a silver cup stand on a small cabinet.
Near the door at the right hang a long and wide blue cloak and a big black felt hat. A short boar-spear is leaned against the wall.
The KING, lost in thought, stands by one of the open windows where the full sunlight pours over him. He has on a black dress of Spanish cut, with yellow linings that show in the seams and through a number of slits. Over his shoulders is thrown a short cloak trimmed with sable. His hair is blond, and his tremendous beard, reaching almost to his waist, is still lighter in colour.
The QUEEN enters from the left. She wears a yellow dress with black trimmings.
KING. [Kissing her brow] Good morrow, my rose!
QUEEN. A splendid morning!
KING. The first spring day after a long winter.
QUEEN. Is my King in a gracious mood to-day?
KING. My graciousness is not dependent on weather or wind.—Go on now! Is it a question of Eric?
QUEEN. It is.
KING. Well, he has my good grace once more after having slept himself sober in the tower. And Jorghen comes next, I suppose?
QUEEN. Yes.
KING. He, on the other hand, will not have my good grace until he reforms.