might will we press onward, and fight and toil unresting, until thou art seated on the throne of Hårfager!
Sigurd.
Hiördis, Hiördis, so have I dreamt in my wild youth; let it be forgotten—tempt me not!
Hiördis.
[With dignity.] It is the Norn's will that we two shall hold together; it cannot be altered. Plainly now I see my task in life: to make thee famous over all the world. Thou hast stood before me every day, ever hour of my life; I sought to tear thee out of my mind, but I lacked the might; now it is needless, now that I know thou lovest me.
Sigurd.
[With forced coldness.] If that be so—then know—I <g>have</g> loved thee; it has passed now;—I have forgot those days.
Hiördis.
Sigurd, in that thou liest! So much at least am I worth, that if thou hast loved me once, thou canst never forget it.
Sigurd.
[Vehemently.] I must; and now I will.
Hiördis.
So be it; but thou <g>canst</g> not. Thou wilt seek to hinder me, but in vain; ere evening falls, Gunnar and Dagny shall know all.
Sigurd.
Ha, that wilt thou never do!
