Do you really mean to say so?

Stensgård.

And you, with your penetrating eye, have suspected nothing?

Bastian.

Yes, at one time I did think——; but now people are talking of your hanging about the Chamberlain’s——

Stensgård.

Oh, the Chamberlain’s! Well, Monsen, I’ll tell you frankly that for a moment I did hesitate; but, thank goodness, that is over; now I see my way quite clear before me.

Bastian.

There’s my hand. I’ll back you up, you may be sure. And as for Ragna—why, she daren’t do anything but what I and father wish.

Stensgård.