SCENE II
[LADY KIRSTEN. OLAF comes from the house in festive garb; he is pale and thoughtful.]
OLAF. [To himself.] Yesterday and today! There is but a midsummer night between the two, and yet it seems to me that both autumn and winter have overtaken my soul since the time I wandered up there on the mountain side—with her, with Alfhild!
OLAF. [Notices Lady Kirsten.] Alas, my dear mother, are you there?
LADY KIRSTEN. Quite so, my son! I like to see you dressed in gold and in silk. Now one can see by your dress who it is that is bridegroom tonight. I see you have rested.
OLAF. I have slept, but little have I rested; for all the while I was dreaming.
LADY KIRSTEN. A bridegroom must dream,—that is an ancient custom.
OLAF. My fairest dream is ended; let us not think any longer about that.