[Appears to search the inner pockets of his doublet; says to himself:

Who the devil is he? What pretext can 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. Mayhap we could 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 Gyldenlöve purposes to take in our design?