JENS BIELKE (whispers). Then the first thing is to put a guard on the gate; then we are sure of him.
NILS LYKKE (with a smile). Hm! (To FINN.) Tell me—is there any way of leaving the castle but by the gate? Gape not at me so! I mean—can one escape from Ostrat unseen, while the castle gate is shut?
FINN. Nay, that I know not. 'Tis true they talk of secret ways in the vaults beneath; but no one knows them save Lady Inger—and mayhap Mistress Elina.
JENS BIELKE. The devil!
NILS LYKKE. It is well. You may go.
FINN. And should you need me in aught again, you have but to open the second door on the right in the Banquet Hall, and I shall presently be at hand.
NILS LYKKE. Good. (Points to the entrance-door. FINN goes out.)
JENS BIELKE. Now, by my soul, dear friend and brother—this campaign is like to end but scurvily for both of us.
NILS LYKKE (with a smile). Oh—not for me, I hope.
JENS BIELKE. Not? First of all, there is small honour to be got in hunting an overgrown whelp like this Nils Sture. Are we to think him mad or in his sober senses after the pranks he has played? First he breeds bad blood among the peasants; promises them help and all their hearts can desire;—and then, when it comes to the pinch, off he runs to hide behind a petticoat! Moreover, to tell the truth, I repent that I followed your counsel and went not my own way.