GUNNAR. The wild fire of the viking's blood still burns in your veins, but it shall be quenched. A day and a night shall I wait for you. And you will come—mild as a dove seeking shelter, although you now would fly above the clouds like a wild falcon. But I still hold the ribbon in my hand—that is your love, which you cannot tear away. When twilight falls again you will come. Till then, farewell. [Goes to the door and stops.]
GUNLÖD. [Silent.]
GUNNAR. [Going.] Farewell.
GUNLÖD. We shall see, proud knight, who comes first. When this garland shall bloom again, then shall I come. [Throws garland in fire. She watches it burn in a thoughtful mood. When it is quite burnt she breaks into tears again and falls on her knees.] God! God! Soften my proud spirit! Oh, that he should leave me! [Hastens to door. At same moment Valgerd enters, passes Gunlöd, and goes to fire.]
VALGERD. Why did you not tend the fire?
GUNLÖD. [Silent.]
VALGERD [Putting her hand against Gunlöd's heart]. You have a secret!
GUNLÖD. Yes, mother, yes.
VALGERD. Hide it well.
GUNLÖD. Oh, I must speak—I can't bear it any longer.