Dagfinn.
I have fulfilled mine errand; I go to meet the King.
Bishop Nicholas.
Bear him most loving greeting, good Dagfinn!
Dagfinn.
[As he goes out to the right.] I would not be Bishop Nicholas to-morrow.
Bishop Nicholas.
Trond the Priest’s confession——! So it has come after all—here I hold it in my hand. [Muses with a fixed gaze.] A man should never promise aught by his soul’s salvation, when he is as old as I. Had I years before me, I could always wriggle free from such a promise; but this evening, this last evening—no, that were imprudent.—But can I keep it? Is it not to endanger all that I have worked for, my whole life through? [Whispering.] Oh, could I but cheat the Evil One, only this one more time! [Listens.] What was that? [Calls.] Viliam, Viliam!
Sira Viliam enters from the right.
Bishop Nicholas.