Håkon.

You write to the King’s foes under the King’s seal, although the King knows nought of what is written?

Earl Skule.

So have I done for many a year, with your good will.

Håkon.

Ay, in the days of your regency.

Earl Skule.

Never have you had aught but good thereby. Earl Jon wrote to me praying that I would mediate on his behalf; he offered peace, but on terms dishonourable to the King. The war in Vermeland has weighed much upon your mind; had this matter been left to you, Earl Jon had come too lightly off. I can deal better with him.

Håkon.

’Twas our will to deal with him ourself.—And what answer made you?