Nils Lykke.
[Smiling.] There might be some show of reason for such a reading of the case; but sure it is that as yet I hold not the battle lost.
Lady Inger.
However that may be, it might at any rate be retrieved, if you would tarry some days with us. You see yourself, I am still halting and wavering at the parting of the ways,—persuading my redoubtable assailant not to quit the field.—Well, to speak plainly, the thing is this: your alliance with the disaffected in Sweden still seems to me somewhat—how shall I call it?—somewhat miraculous, Sir Councillor! I tell you this frankly, dear Sir! The thought that has moved the King’s Council to this secret step is in truth most politic; but ’tis strangely at variance with the deeds of certain of your countrymen in bygone years. Be not offended, then, if my trust in your fair promises needs to be somewhat strengthened ere I can place my whole welfare in your hands.
Nils Lykke.
A longer stay at Östråt would scarce help towards that end; since I purpose not to make any further effort to shake your resolve.
Lady Inger.
Then must I pity you from my heart. Ay, Sir Councillor—’tis true I stand here an unfriended widow; yet may you trust my word when I foretell that this visit to Östråt will strew your future path with thorns.
Nils Lykke.
[With a smile.] Is that your forecast, Lady Inger?