The trap-door in the floor is raised and the MEWLER ascends from the hole: a blurred mass of white veils beneath which the outlines of a small infant in long clothes are barely discernible. This apparition remains hovering above the opening in the floor.
Then the bridal march is again heard outside. The song of the NECK ceases, and the MEWLER disappears, the trap-door falling back into its wonted position.
The bridal procession enters the room. First come the fiddlers, then the bridesmaids and bridesmen. After these come the bride and the groom, and then follow the PASTOR, the parents of the couple, the members of both families, friends, and young people. Everybody seems depressed, and the entrance is made in gloomy silence.
The bride is led to a chair in the middle of the floor, placed so that she must face the trap-door in the floor. She is very pale and does not look up at all. The guests pass in front of her as in review. Now and then one stops and says a few words to her. Little by little they disappear into the loft in the rear.
MATS. [To KERSTI] Now the worst is over, Kersti.
[He goes out.
BRITA. [Heading the bridesmaids, to KERSTI] You have got the crown—see that you keep it! [She and the maids go out.
KERSTI'S MOTHER. [Making sure that the crown is on straight] Keep your back straight and your head high, girl!
[She goes out.
SOLDIER. [To KERSTI] God bless you! [Goes out.
VERGER. [To KERSTI] And protect you! [Goes out.
MATS'S GRANDFATHER. [To KERSTI] Comely you are as I am homely! [Goes out.
MATS'S MOTHER. [To KERSTI] Your new family bids you welcome! [She goes out.