Ruster. Well then, it is finished. (Half-heartedly.) I suppose I must be going. (Glances toward the window.)
Liljekrona. (Indifferently) You had better stay where you are over Christmas.
Ruster. (Catching the note in Liljekrona’s voice, and with indignant pride.) What do you mean, Liljekrona, shall I stay here because I have nowhere else to go? Why, only think how they are standing and waiting for me in the big ironworks in the parish of Bro. The guest-room will be already in order and the glass of welcome filled. I must hurry. I only do not know to whom I should go first.
Liljekrona. Very well, you may go if you will.
Ruster. (Emphatically) Yes, I must go—at once.
(Enter Torstein with logs for the fire.)
Olga. If you wish, Torstein will drive you down. Are the horses still harnessed, Torstein?
Torstein. Yes, Ma’am.
Olga. Then bring the sledge around.
Ruster. And bring it at once. I have only to get my treasures and I am ready. (Picks up his music pen and exits upstairs.)