LADY KIRSTEN. Judgment is pronounced! Alfhild shall die!
ALFHILD. Do as you please; little shall I be of hindrance to you. When Olaf denied his love, then ceased my life,—I live no longer.
LADY KIRSTEN. Take her up on the rocky ledge over there.
[Two Servants take ALFHILD up.]
LADY KIRSTEN. For the last time, Alfhild! Give me back my son!
ALFHILD. I will answer no more!
LADY KIRSTEN. Just as you please!
LADY KIRSTEN. [To the Servants.] Cast her down! No, wait! I have an idea!
LADY KIRSTEN. [To ALFHILD.] As you stand there, I remember you again as you yesterday came forward with the golden crown and thought you were worthy to be Olaf Liljekrans' bride. Now we soon shall see how much you are worth; there are present here peasants and servants and many humble men;—perhaps your life can still be saved! Yes, Alfhild! You stare at me, but so it is; I will be merciful to you!
LADY KIRSTEN. (Turns to the rest.) You all know the old custom, that when a woman is sentenced to death for a capital offence, as she is, her life will be saved and she will be free if an irreproachable man comes forth and upholds her innocence and declares himself ready and willing to marry her. That custom you know?