NANNA. Oh, rescue then my Hother!
Two savage bears among the bushes yonder
Attack’d him; if thou hast love for virtue,
Assist him quick; if thou delayest a moment,
The noblest heart that ever beat they’ll mangle!
Oh! quick: bethink thee not!
BALDER. No, cruel Nanna!
Fear not! My arm shall rescue him thou lovest!
[Just as he is about to rise HOTHER steps forward.
HOTHER, THE LAST.
HOTHER. Ye heavens! do I dream! Enamour’d half-god!
Excuse me for disturbing thee!
BALDER (as he rises up). There is he!
NANNA (goes tenderly to meet HOTHER). Ah, Hother! Ah, my Hother!
HOTHER (pushes her back with his hand). Go, false woman!
BALDER. Gods, how unthankful art thou—how ferocious!
Can such a bear of Nanna be deserving?
HOTHER (takes his shield down from the tree). Now, pay for all, and end thy prate in Valhall!