Earl Skule.
Never have you had aught but good thereby. Earl Jon wrote to me praying that I would mediate on his behalf; he offered peace, but on terms dishonourable to the King. The war in Vermeland has weighed much upon your mind; had this matter been left to you, Earl Jon had come too lightly off. I can deal better with him.
Håkon.
'Twas our will to deal with him ourself.—And what answer made you?
Earl Skule.
Read my letter.
Håkon.
Give it me!
Earl Skule.
I deemed you had it.
Dagfinn.
Nay, you know better than that. Gregorius Jonsson was too swift of foot; when we came on board, the letter was gone.
Earl Skule.
[Turns to Gregorius Jonsson.] Sir Baron, give the King the letter.
Gregorius Jonsson.
[Coming close to him, uneasily.] Hearken Earl!
Earl Skule.
What now?
