[He goes slowly out.

Hiördis.

[With forced laughter.] Ay, let him go as he will; we shall scarce need many men to face him should he come with strife again! Now, Dagny—I wot it is the last time thy father shall sail from Iceland on such a quest!

Sigurd.

[Indignant.] Oh, shame!

Dagny.

[Likewise.] And thou canst mock him—mock him, after all that has befallen?

Hiördis.

A deed once done, ’tis wise to praise it. This morning I swore hate and vengeance against Örnulf;—the slaying of Jökul I might have forgotten—all, save that he cast shame upon my lot. He called me a leman; if it be so, it shames me not; for Gunnar is mightier now than thy father; he is greater and more famous than Sigurd, thine own husband!

Dagny.