Halla (calmer). I wished for the death of that child long before it was born. (Goes to Tota.) But this my little springtime child I have never wished ill. The first time I felt her life, it seemed a token of forgiveness that I was allowed to become a mother again, and when she came into the world, the sun was shining, and the sky was blue and warm. (Kisses her.)
Arnes. My tongue got the better of me. (Puts his hand on his heart.) There is a devil dwelling in me. (Stands motionless.) I love you.
Halla (turns toward him). Have you not done hurting me yet?
Arnes (crushed). No matter what I say, you think I mean ill.
Halla. I shall not speak to you again. (Sits down to her work.)
Arnes. Nor will you have to listen to me any more. I am going down to the lowlands, and there they can do with me what they like.
Halla. If you tell them of our hiding-place, they may let you off more easily.
Arnes. Even that you believe I could do!
Halla (rising). If you cared for me as much as you say, you would be good to me instead of bad.
Arnes. Love has made you good and me bad. (He is silent.) Do you remember the time Kari and I went up the glacier, and he fell down into a crack? He told you I had been so frightened that I shook all over. It was not for his life I feared; I feared my own thoughts.