RODERIK. Is this your chieftain?
ASGAUT. Yes.
ASGAUT. [To GANDALF.] This man can tell you how your father died; For he was in the thick of it, he says, The only one to get away alive.
GANDALF. Hush! I will nothing hear.
ASGAUT. Good; let us then Begin the task.
BLANKA. O God! what will they do?
GANDALF. [In an undertone.] I cannot, Asgaut!
ASGAUT. [Likewise.] Is our king afraid? Has woman's flattering tongue beguiled his mind?
GANDALF. No matter,—I have said—
ASGAUT. Bethink yourself,— Your standing with your warriors is at stake. Your word you pledged Valhalla's mighty gods, And if you fail a dastard you'll be judged. Do not forget our faith is insecure— And wavering; one blow can strike its root, And if the blow comes from the king above, It will have had a mortal wound.