Jorun (leaps up on the dais and lays her head on HELGA'S knee).—Take my life instead of Brand Kolbeinsson's life.
Helga.—You are out of your senses, lad!
Jorun (arises, looking at LADY HELGA).—You cut close to me ten years ago; take now my life also!
Helga (shades her eyes).—You, were beheaded ten years ago! Has the lad Guttorm Kalfsson risen from his grave?
Kolbein.—Do we see apparitions in the light?
Broddi (to BRAND).—How did your wife Jorun come among our company? (BRAND leaps up on the dais and carries JORUN down on his arm. About all the hall men are heard to say in a low voice, 'LADY JORUN.' While she is being carried down to the floor she extends her arms toward HELGA.)
Jorun.—Take my life as you have taken my father's and my brother's; then you need fear no longer that I am egging on my kinsmen to avenge me on you. (BRAND sets her down on the floor. They embrace each other fervently.)
Helga.—Of little worth I hold your life, Jorun; but in order to keep my promise I shall take it instead of your husband's life. (Calls out.) Take my prisoner away from Brand Kolbeinsson!
Broddi.—Let us protect her with our bodies!
Brand.—Look you, Helga my kinswoman, you will not reach your prisoner so very easily for the first. (DEACON SIGURD picks up HELGI SKAFTASON'S axe, for he is weaponless. They take JORUN in their midst.)