Oh me, if I only were certain
I'd not been too strict with him!
Peer Gynt.
[Enters.]
Good evening!
Åse.
The Lord give you gladness!
You've come then, my boy, my dear!
But how dare you show face in the valley?
You know your life's forfeit here.
Peer.
Oh, life must e'en go as it may go;
I felt that I must look in.
Åse.
Ay, now Kari is put to silence,
And I can depart in peace!
Peer.
Depart? Why, what are you saying?
Where is it you think to go?
Åse.
Alas, Peer, the end is nearing;
I have but a short time left.
Peer.
[Writhing, and walking towards the back of the room.]
See there now! I'm fleeing from trouble;
I thought at least <g>here</g> I'd be free!
Are your hands and your feet a-cold, then?
Åse.
Ay, Peer; all will soon be o'er.—
When you see that my eyes are glazing,
