NILS LYKKE. Of course; safely bestowed; so safely that I cannot
at once——
(Appears to search the inner pockets of his doublet; says to
himself:)
Who the devil is he? What pretext shall I make? I may be on
the brink of great discoveries——
(Notices that the Servants are laying the table and lighting
the lamps in the Banquet Hall, and says to OLAF SKAKTAVL:)
Ah, I see Lady Inger has taken order for the evening meal. We
could perhaps better talk of our affairs at table.
OLAF SKAKTAVL. Good; as you will.
NILS LYKKE (aside). Time gained—all gained!
(To LADY INGER with a show of great friendliness.)
And meanwhile we might learn what part Lady Inger Gyldenlove
purposes to take in our design?
LADY INGER. I?—None.
NILS LYKKE AND OLAF SKAKTAVL. None!
LADY INGER. Can ye marvel, noble Sirs, that I venture not on a game, wherein all is staked on one cast? And that, too, when none of my allies dare trust me fully.
NILS LYKKE. That reproach touches not me. I trust you blindly;
I pray you be assured of that.
OLAF SKAKTAVL. Who should believe in you, if not your countrymen?
LADY INGER. Truly,—this confidence rejoices me.
(Goes to a cupboard in the back wall and fills two goblets with wine.)