THRALL. Do you wish me to stay in your service when you are a heathen?
THORFINN. I want to prove how little I respect their belief. We must put double bolts on the north gate!
THRALL. Yes, Master, but the belief is stronger than a hundred bolts.
THORFINN. Who questioned you? [Pause.] What happened when you became Christians here on the island?
THRALL. Oh, it was easier than any one would think. They only poured water on us and the bishop read from a big book and then they gave us each a white shirt.
THORFINN. Tell the twelve strongest to take their new axes—do you hear?
THRALL [Starting to go]. Yes, Master.
THORFINN. Wait. [Pause.] Do you remember what was written in that big book?
THRALL. I don't remember much of it, but there was something about two thieves who were hanged on crosses along with the Son of God. But one of them went to heaven.
THORFINN. Did they pour water on him, too?