LADY INGER (to NILS LYKKE). So that was the trap, Sir
Councillor!
NILS LYKKE. Inger Gyldenlove, trust me——!
LADY INGER. An ambuscade that was to snap him up, as soon as
you had got the promise that should destroy me!
NILS LYKKE (takes out the paper and tears it to pieces). There
is your promise. I keep nothing that can bear witness against you.
LADY INGER. What will you do?
NILS LYKKE. From this hour I am your champion. If I have sinned against you,—by Heaven I will strive to repair my crime. But now I must out, if I have to hew my way through the gate!—Elina— tell your mother all!—And you, Lady Inger, let our reckoning be forgotten! Be generous—and silent! Trust me, ere the day dawns you shall owe me a life's gratitude.
(Goes out quickly to the right.)
LADY INGER (looks after him with exultation). It is well! I
understand him!
(Turns to ELINA.)
Nils Lykke——? Well——?
ELINA. He knocked upon my door, and set this ring upon my finger.
LADY INGER. And he loves you with all his heart?