Håkon.

[Hands the Earl the parchment.] Read that, Earl Skule.

Earl Skule.

[Reads, looks in surprise at the King, and says in a low voice.] You break with Kanga the Young?

Håkon.

With Kanga whom I have loved more than all the world. From this day forth she must never more cross the King’s path.

Earl Skule.

This that you do is a great thing, Håkon. Mine own memory tells me what it must cost.

Håkon.

Whoever is too dear to the King must away.—Tie up the letter. [Gives it to Ivar Bodde.