Wait till it gnaws and rends you, soon and late,

Then tell me if my faith is adequate.

[She goes across to the ladies.

Mrs. Halm [aside to her].

Can you two never be at peace? you’ve made

Poor Mr. Falk quite angry, I’m afraid.

[Continues reprovingly in a low voice. Miss Jay joins in the conversation. Svanhild remains cold and silent.

Falk [after a pause of reflection goes over to the summer-house, then to himself].

With fullest confidence her glances lightened.

Shall I believe, as she does so securely,