Solveig.
Wait; I will help you; the burden we'll share.
Peer.
No, stay where you are! I must bear it alone.
Solveig.
But don't go too far, dear!
Peer.
Be patient, my girl;
Be my way long or short—you must wait.
Solveig.
[Nodding to him as he goes.]
Yes, I'll wait!
[Peer Gynt goes down the wood-path. Solveig remains standing in the open half-door.
SCENE FOURTH.
Åse's room. Evening. The room is lighted by a wood fire on the open hearth. A cat is lying on a chair at the foot of the bed.
Åse lies in the bed, fumbling about restlessly with her hands on the coverlet.
Åse.
Oh, Lord my God, isn't he coming?
The time drags so drearily on.
I have no one to send with a message;
And I've much, oh so much, to say.
I haven't a moment to lose now!
So quickly! Who could have foreseen
