SOME OF THE PEASANTS. We will go all the same, Lady Inger!
THE CRY SPREADS. Yes, yes; we will go!
LADY INGER (advancing a step towards them). Who dares to move? (A silence. After a moment's pause, she adds:) I have thought for you. What do you common folk know of the country's needs? How dare you judge of such things? You must even bear your oppressions and burdens yet awhile. Why murmur at that, when you see that we, your leaders, are as ill bested as you?—— —— Take all the weapons back to the hall. You shall know my further will hereafter. Go!
(The Retainers take back the arms, and the whole crowd then
withdraws by the door on the right.)
ELINA (softly to BIORN). Do you still think I have sinned in
misjudging—the Lady of Ostrat?
LADY INGER (beckons to BIORN, and says). Have a guest chamber
ready.
BIORN. It is well, Lady Inger!
LADY INGER. And let the gate stand open to all that knock.
BIORN. But——?
LADY INGER. The gate open!