Halla. If you make the price right.
Arnes. You ought to have it for nothing—you've given me shelter and good food so often. (Lifts his foot.) What I need most just now is to get something on my feet.
Halla. I don't think we shall quarrel about the price. (To Magnus.) Take it out into the kitchen. Exit Magnus with the bag.
Halla. Will you not sit down? I'll go and find you a bite to eat. Exit.
Arnes (following her with his eyes). That woman has a kind heart. (Sits down.) How long have you been working here on the farm?
Kari. This is my second year.
Arnes. And overseer already? Yes, some folks have luck. (Leans toward him.) As you may know, I haven't a very good name. I can't settle down very long at any one place, and it comes hard for me to be anybody's servant. You must surely have heard me spoken of as a thief?
Kari. People will say so many things.
Arnes (passing his hand over his ears). My ears are not marked yet, but somehow it sticks to you like dust—what people say—no matter whether it is true or not. Have you ever been the target for gossipy tales?
Kari (slowly). Not that I know of.