(She throws the tissue on the ground, and goes out by
the dais door.
)

ODDNY (lifting one of the pieces)
O me! A wonder has vanished.

STEINVOR
What is a wonder less? She has done finely,
Setting her worth above dead marvels and shows.

(The deep menacing baying of the hound is heard near at hand. A woman's cry follows it.)

They come, they come! Let us flee by the bower!

(Starting up, she stumbles in the tissue and sinks upon it. The
others rise.
)

You are leaving me—will you not wait for me—
Take, take me with you.

(Mingled cries of women are heard.)

GUNNAR (outside)
Samm, it is well: be still.
Women, be quiet; loose me; get from my feet,
Or I will have the hound to wipe me clear.

STEINVOR (recovering herself)
Women are sent to spy.