ERIC. But it is of no use to take any stock in superstition, as I entered this vale of misery with my fist full of blood.
QUEEN. Now you do scare me!
ERIC. [Laughing] That's more than Jorghen would believe—that I could scare anybody.
QUEEN. What blood is to be shed here to-day?
ERIC. I am not sure, but it is said that those Dalecarlians will have their heads cut off.
QUEEN. Can it not be prevented?
ERIC. If it is to be, it cannot be prevented, but must come as thunder must come after lightning. And besides, what does it matter? Heads are dropping off here like ripe apples.
The KING enters reading a document. The QUEEN meets him with a supplicating look.
KING. [Hotly] If you have any faith in me at all, Margaret, cease your efforts to judge in matters of state. I have been investigating for two years without being able to make up my mind. How can you, then, hope to grasp this matter?—Go in to the children now. I have a word to say to Eric!
The QUEEN goes out.