Halla (in helpless fear). I will tell you the truth. I don't dare to be alone.
Kari. Are you afraid of the dark?
Halla. When you are gone, I know I shall begin to listen. I know what I shall hear.
Kari. What do you hear?
Halla. I hear the sound of a great heavy waterfall. I hear the screams of my child. You must not leave me.
Kari (turns away). You spare me nothing; you make my going as hard as can be.
Halla. I forbid you to go! It's inhuman to leave me here alone. If you ever come back, you will find me a mad beast.
Kari. Now you shall keep still. I will not listen to your whining any longer.
Halla. You are like all the rest. When your will is set, you have no heart. (Sits down silently.)
Kari (fastens his foot-gear; ties a rope around his waist). When I draw it tight enough, I don't feel that I am hungry. (Puts on a coat of heavy fur.) You must watch the fire and not let it go out. I'll bring you some more faggots from the wood-shed.