Bengt.
That is well, that is well! So I fain would see it! I am merry, and my wife likewise; and therefore I pray ye all to be merry along with us.
One of the Guests.
Aye, now let us have a stave-match.[1]
Many.
[Shout.] Yes, yes, a stave-match!
Another Guest.
Nay, let that be; it leads but to strife at the feast. [Lowering his voice.] Bear in mind that Knut Gesling is with us to-night.
Several.
[Whispering among themselves.] Aye, aye, that is true. Remember the last time, how he—. Best beware.
An Old Man.
But you, Dame Margit—I know your kin had ever wealth of tales in store; and you yourself, even as a child, knew many a fair legend.
Margit.
Alas! I have forgot them all. But ask Gudmund Alfson, my kinsman; he knows a tale that is merry enough.
- ↑ A contest in impromptu verse-making.
