Halla. It must be Torstein come back again at last. No, there are two of them. And yet that’s Torstein. He’s getting out. He’s helping the other. (In a tone of horror.) Why, it must be Ruster with him!
Olga. (Until now heedless, looking and drying her eyes) Ruster, did you say, Halla? Has Ruster come back again? (She approaches the window and looks out.) Surely it is he! (She opens the door. The two men enter. They are covered with snow. Torstein is blue with the cold, and Ruster seems half-frozen. His mustache hangs down over his mouth. He leans on Torstein. The children jump up from the floor.) Ruster, you are welcome back to Lofdala. (She loosens his coat and leads him, with Torstein’s help, to the fire. Halla draws up the armchair into which Ruster sinks weakly. The children watch.)
Torstein. (Apologetically) I had to bring him back, Ma’am. At every house they were either going away over Christmas, or were crowded with company. They didn’t even ask him to get out of the sledge. And the snow was so thick I thought we’d both be frozen.
Olga. You did well to bring him, Torstein. (She rubs Ruster’s hands to give them life. Torstein stands by the fire.) Halla, is the punch still hot?
Halla. Yes, Ma’am.
Olga. Then pour out a glass. It will warm him.
(Halla pours out two glasses. One she gives to Torstein, the other Olga holds to Ruster’s lips.)
Torstein. (Smacking his lips) Um! That puts life into you! (Sets down his glass.) Well, I must drive the horses around, or they’ll be drifted in.
(Exit by front door. Oswald and Sigurd watch from the window.)
Ruster. (Gaining consciousness and looking about with a sad, puzzled expression) How did I come here again? It is strange, all strange to be in Liljekrona’s house—I thought—— (Abruptly.) Why are you so kind to me? I am only an old broken-down instrument....