Jorunn. Do you hear that, Sveinungi? Ljot is waiting for you, and the servants can't sleep either before you go in.
Sveinungi. I am not going to stay in the tent to-night. I am going home.
Jorunn. You don't mean that!
Ljot. But, father dear!
Sveinungi. I won't let any foolish fear drive me out of my house, and it is nothing but a foolish fear. The earthquake will not come so suddenly but that I shall have time to get out. It's impossible. Besides, the badstofa will hold. It's well built, though it's old.
Jorunn. Do you think the badstofa will hold if there should come a big earthquake? You cannot mean that!
Sveinungi. It is not at all sure there will be another shock. It's only a fancy that the earthquake must needs keep on once it has begun. I believe it is over; I feel it. (During the last speeches the Servants have been coming out of the tent.) What are you running out for? Go in, all of you.
Jakobina. I must tell master about the dream I had. It was last night. I thought I was standing out in the yard and saw a giant coming across the hraun. He walked with long, unsteady strides (she takes a few steps forward; her voice sounds distant and threatening), and seemed to grope as if he were blind. Then I saw him standing right by the house—with arms stretched out; he bent down over the farm and stood there like a stone cross. (Makes the sign of the cross with her arms.)
Sveinungi. Did I ask you to tell me about your dream?
Jorunn. I beg of you, Sveinungi, that you do not stay at the house to-night. It would be tempting God.