BIORN (seizes LADY INGER'S hand as she is going). Thanks, my noble and high-souled mistress! I, that have known you from childhood up—I have never doubted you.
LADY INGER. Hush, Biorn. It is a dangerous game that I have ventured this night. The others stake only their lives; but I, trust me, a thousandfold more!
BIORN. How mean you? Do you fear for your power and your favour with——?
LADY INGER. My power? O God in Heaven!
A RETAINER (comes from the hall with a large sword). See, here's a real good wolf's-tooth to flay the blood-suckers' lackeys with!
EINAR HUK. 'Tis too good for such as you. Look, here is the shaft of Sten Sture's* lance; hang the breastplate upon it, and we shall have the noblest standard heart can desire.
* Pronounce Stayn Stoore [umlaut above "e"—D. L.].
FINN (comes from the door on the left, with a letter in his hand, and goes towards LADY INGER). I have sought you through all the house.
LADY INGER. What do you want?
FINN (hands her the letter). A messenger is come from Trondhiem with a letter for you.